General Himalayan Facts

The idea of creating a Persian cat with the pointed pattern of the Siamese had long been desired by breeders. Working toward this goal, Persian cats with colored points, called Himalayans, were produced in the United States in the early 1930s thanks to the efforts of Marguerita Gorforth, Virginia Cobb, and Dr. Clyde Keeler. In 1935, after British breeders had visited the United States to see the Himalayan, a breeding program to produce these cats also began in England. The breeding program had to be stopped during World War II but was reinstated afterwards. In the mid 1950s, the Himalayan was accepted for recognition. The first United States champion was Goforth's LaChiquita, who gained this title with the American Cat Fanciers Association. By the 1960s, every United States registry had accepted the Himalayan for recognition in the show ring. Recently, some United States registries have incorporated the Himalayan into the Persian class. In these registries, this breed is called a Persian-Himalayan or Himalayan-Persian as well as just Himalayan. The Himalayan has always been known as the Colorpoint Longhair in Britain.

The Himalayan cat, with its serene and calm demeanor, embodies a unique blend of tranquility and spirited playfulness. Imagine this fluffy, long-haired beauty basking in a sunlit spot, the epitome of peace. Then, in a blink, she's a whirlwind of energy, darting across the room, her playful antics a delightful surprise. This breed's kitten-like vivacity doesn't fade with age; rather, it's a charming contrast to their usual composed state.

These cats are known for their strong bonds with their families. A Himalayan will not just share your space; they make it their own, from stretching out contentedly beside you to claiming a cozy spot on your lap when they are seeking closeness. Their adaptability shines through their easy-going nature about changes in routine, making them a stress-free companion in dynamic households.

Their sociability extends beyond their immediate human family. The Himalayan is typically welcoming to strangers, embodying a friendly and open-hearted spirit. This breed’s combination of a gentle temperament, willingness to engage, and bursts of playful energy makes them an ideal pet for those who cherish both the quiet moments and the joyful disruptions that animals bring into our lives.

Maintaining the health and wellbeing of a Himalayan cat requires a dedicated approach to their lifestyle, particularly in terms of nutrition and exercise. Given that Himalayans aren't particularly known for their love of strenuous activity, it's crucial to manage their diet closely to prevent weight gain, which can lead to a host of health issues. A balanced diet tailored to their specific needs, possibly with the advice of a veterinarian, can ensure they receive the right amount of nutrients without excessive calories.

Exercise is equally important to keep a Himalayan in top shape. Despite their laid-back nature, Himalayans do enjoy engaging in play, especially when their humans take an active role. Interactive toys, such as laser pointers, feather wands, and puzzle feeders, can stimulate their natural hunting instincts and encourage physical activity. Regular play sessions not only help in maintaining their physical health but also provide mental stimulation and strengthen the bond between pet and owner. However, it might require some persistence to incorporate this into their daily routine consistently.

The luxurious coat of a Himalayan is another aspect that demands attention. Daily grooming is essential to prevent matting and tangling, which can be uncomfortable and even painful for the cat. Regular brushing and combing will help to keep their coat soft, clean, and shiny, and is a good opportunity to check for any skin issues or parasites.

Due to the introduction by CFA’s breed standard in 2007 of the Brachycephalic mutation, many Persian Himalayans have flatter faces. Daily eye care is a necessity. Their unique facial structure can lead to tear staining and accumulation of debris around the eyes, which can be gently cleaned with a warm, wet cloth to prevent irritation or infection. Here at Himalaying Cattery, our goal is to stay true to the traditional or "Doll face" features in Himalayan cats which helps avoid the health issues commonly associated with Brachycephalic Persians. Brachycephalic cats, characterized by their flat faces and short nasal passages, often suffer from respiratory difficulties, dental problems, and other health issues due to their cranial structure. By focusing on the Doll face characteristics, want to contribute to the breeding of healthier, happier Himalayan cats with potentially fewer health complications. This not only benefits the cats themselves but also provides peace of mind for the families that welcome them into their homes.