Javanese Cat: The Longhaired Siamese-Type With a Silky Coat

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Imagine a Siamese with a plume of a tail and a coat of silk, and you have the Javanese. This elegant, chatty cat belongs to the family of longhaired Siamese types. It is intelligent, active and affectionate, with a voice that makes sure that you know exactly what it thinks.

Origins and naming

Longhaired kittens occasionally appeared in Siamese litters, and in the mid-twentieth century breeders developed them as a separate breed, the Balinese, named for the graceful dancers of Bali. Later, breeders crossed these cats with other Siamese-type cats to produce longhaired cats with a wider range of point colors, such as red, cream, tortie and lynx. Some registries call these cats Javanese, a name that follows the pattern of Indonesian island names. Others classify them as Balinese or as longhaired Colorpoints, so the terms are sometimes confusing. See the Siamese, Balinese and Oriental Shorthair profiles for related breeds.

Appearance

The Javanese has the same long, svelte body as the Siamese, with a wedge-shaped head, large ears and almond-shaped, vivid blue eyes. The coat is medium-long and silky, lying close to the body, and the tail is a long, feathery plume. Unlike many longhaired breeds, there is little or no woolly undercoat, which keeps the coat sleek and reduces matting.

The coat has the pointed pattern, with darker color on the face, ears, legs and tail, in a range of colors. Adult weight is typically five to ten pounds.

Personality

Javanese cats are social, vocal and demanding. They are one of the most talkative breeds, and they will comment on everything, from the arrival of dinner to the departure of a guest. They are intelligent, curious and athletic, enjoying climbing, chasing toys and learning tricks. Many will play fetch.

They bond closely with their families and dislike being alone. They often follow people around and want to take part in everything. They do best in homes where someone is around, or where there is another pet. See cat separation anxiety and leaving a cat alone. Introductions to other cats should be slow. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.

Because they are clever, they need mental challenges. Provide puzzle feeders, climbing trees and interactive toys. See indoor cat enrichment ideas and how to choose a cat tree. Training is possible with clickers. See clicker training a cat.

Grooming

The silky single coat is easier than most. Comb weekly, and brush a little more in spring when the coat is shed. See how to brush a cat and grooming longhaired cats. Check the tail and britches for tangles. Bathing is rarely needed.

Brush teeth, trim nails and clean ears as with any cat. See cat dental disease and how to trim cat nails.

Health

Javanese and other Siamese-type cats share some inherited health risks.

• Dental disease. Common in Siamese-type breeds. See cat dental disease.
• Heart disease. Cardiomyopathy occurs. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
• Respiratory problems. Asthma and bronchial disease are seen in the breed. See feline asthma.
• Progressive retinal atrophy, an inherited eye disease in some lines. See cat eye problems.
• Amyloidosis (a liver and kidney condition) in some Siamese-related cats.
• Anxiety and overgrooming. See why do cats overgroom.

Ask breeders about genetic tests and the health history of parents.

Is it the right cat for you?

The Javanese suits people who love a talkative, clever, affectionate cat and who can offer company and stimulation. It is a poor match for quiet homes or for people who work long hours with no companion for the cat. See best cat breeds for families.

Finding a Javanese

Because of the naming confusion, ask breeders to explain exactly how their cats are registered. Choose registered breeders who health-test, raise kittens in the home and share records. See how to choose a kitten. Siamese-type cats also turn up in rescues. See adopting a cat from a shelter.

Keeping a Javanese happy

Because Javanese cats are so clever, boredom is the main risk. Rotate toys every few days, hide treats in puzzle feeders and set aside two short play sessions a day with a wand toy. Teach simple tricks, such as sit or high five, using treats. A window perch with a bird feeder outside provides hours of entertainment. If you work away from home, consider a second cat or a pet-safe camera so that you can check in.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your cat coughs, wheezes, loses weight or has eye changes. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.