Himalayan Cats

Himalayan cats ("Himmies") are called "Colourpoint Persians" in Europe, whilst "Himalayan" is an American term. They are a cross (a hybrid) between Siamese and Persians.

Hence the classic color markings at the "points" of the body and the slightly more lively demeanor than a pure Persian.

Ayla the cat featured on this page is a Red Point Doll Face Himalayan. Dani Breeds traditional cats. The Helmi Flick photograph (below on blue background) is of an Ultra (extreme faced) Himalayan.

Photographs in slide show � Dani�lle Rozeboom.
Ayla lives with Dani�lle Rozeboom. Dani�lle runs the Cattery Yeri Shaes.

Being essentially Persian cats, Himalayan cats, are registered as Persians with the main cat registries. The health and grooming issues are as for Persian cats. Grooming is essential. The genes that give these characteristics to the individual breeds are recessive, which means that only 6% of offspring have the desired combination of traits. Look out for the blue eyes and long colourpoint fur.

History Himalayan Cats

Early History of the creation and development of Himalayan Cats
Date	Event
1930's	USA- One cat breeder and one scientist/physician get together to commence an experimental breeding program to breed a long haired cat with points (Siamese like coat). They succeeded after 5 years and then stop having been successful. The technique was published.
1950's	UK- Two cat breeders (Brian and Mrs Harding) get together to breed a colorpoint long haired cat having been inspired by a stray color pointed long haired cat
1950's	Canada- A cat breeder who must have heard about the development of this breed imported several cats from Brian (UK) above and started his own program
1950's	USA - Acat breeder took care of a colorpoint long haired cat for a friend and started her own program.
1955	UK- GCCF recognize the colorpoint Persian and the cat remains a Persian cat.
1957	USA -CFA recognize the Himalayan as a new breed. The question mark hanging over this decision was would it have been better to call the cat a colorpoint Persian rather than a different breed? The early colors are seal, chocolate, blue and lilac. You can see these on the Traditional Siamese (TICA - Thai) page.
1987	Up to 1987 the range of colors for the points was extended and accepted by the CFA.

The Colours

chocolate

seal

lilac

blue

red

cream tortie

blue-cream

lilac-cream

chocolate-tortie

seal lynx

blue lynx

red lynx

cream lynx

tortie lynx

blue-cream lynx

chocolate lynx

lilac lynx

chocolate-tortie & lilac-cream lynx

Health Issues

Thumbnail click for large image � Stockxpert

The most obvious (visible) problem of these issues discussed in relation to Persian cats (on the above link) is tear duct overflow. You can see a picture of a Persian Cat (the Ultra type) demonstrating this condition, by clicking on the adjacent image>>>.

This cat has no association with Dani Rozeboom. This is a slightly shocking image (and I apologise for that) but a real one. The facial anatomy that deals with tear drainage has been altered by selective breeding, the objective of which is the ultra type face (squashed, flattened).

The Persian breed standard even specifies that the face should be flat. It can be dealt with by daily cleaning, which, hasn't happened it seems with the cat illustrated. It is not all beautiful in the Himalayan Cat world. Of course the Persian Cat standard is also the Himalayan standard in respect of the shape of the head and face. So, Himmies have the same tear duct overflow problems.

Apparently a good diet can help reduce tear overflow. Some people use Felidae, which contains no corn or wheat, but a lot of people have suggested Dick van Patten's duck and potato (US market, I believe).

They also have breathing problems due to the anatomical defect that has been bred into her.

My personal view is that if a breeding programme is going to cause health issues then don't do it. The priority is health, obviously.

Information from Himalayan Cat keepers

Tortie Point Himmies are only females. As for Persians they come in Ultra (extreme) and Traditional.

Himmies are calm, gentle and sweet natured but can playful. Their character is a major attraction - a really nice personality. Caveat:as for people, Himalayans aren't all sweet and lovely. If your Himmie is more aggressive than expected then it could be because of the Siamese in him/her.

They need, as is expected, a lot of grooming, particularly the rear end - daily is best. You might consider getting your Himmie shaved (including the rear end :-) on a regular basis. They are usually tolerant of this.

They shed a lot so there is lots of fur in the home to get up. I use a thing called a "bizzy brush". This is a brush which has velvet running in one direction. I have found it very effective on fur and highly durable.

Due to their placid temperament, Himalyan Cats are suited to being indoor cats and "the experts" recommend it. Himalayan cats do well with other pets and family members including children.

Males can breed from 6-7 months old to one year. Females at one year is best. If you are buying, gently challenge the breeder as to the pedigree i.e. the lineage and breeding practices. Seek or assess answers for honesty. A good breeder will be happy to give transparent answers. Himalayans range from $300 (pet)-$2500 (show quality) in price (as at mid-2007)

Remember to read about Persian health issues. Ask the breeder about DNA testing for PKD, Polycystic Kidney Disease.

I'd prefer to re-home a rescue Himalayan. Have your cat spayed or neutered. Don't breed cats until you know all the issues and there are many including moral issues.

Breeders

Selected as independent websites from the first 2 pages of listings, on a Google search.

YewCats Cattery
The rank first in Google search but don't say where they are located. It's USA though. They also breed Traditional Siamese.

Boutique Kittens
LOcated Colorado, USA. Breed Doll Face Himmies, Napoleons (dwarf cat) and a cat I have never heard of "Ragaper".

Wonderfluf Cattery
Located in Nebraska, USA. They breed Doll Face Persians and Himmies.