Thai Cat: The Traditional Siamese With an Old-Style Look

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Look at an old photograph of a Siamese cat, and you will see a rounder, sturdier animal than the elegant, wedge-headed show cat of today. The older type did not disappear. Breeders in several countries preserved it, and today it is known as the Thai, or sometimes the Wichienmaat. It is the traditional Siamese, with the same pointed coat and blue eyes, but with softer lines and a more moderate build.

History

Siamese cats were first brought to the West from Siam, now Thailand, in the nineteenth century. Early cats had apple-shaped heads, solid bodies and a sometimes crossed gaze. During the twentieth century, show breeders selected for ever more extreme, slender, long-headed cats, and the old type became rare. Some breeders kept the traditional look, and in the 1980s and 1990s clubs in Europe and America began to promote it as a breed, often called the Thai. A few registries recognize the Thai as a breed, while others treat it as a Siamese variety or do not recognize it. See the Siamese profile for the modern version.

Appearance

The Thai has a medium, muscular body, with a rounded head, a medium-length muzzle and medium to large ears. The profile has a gentle curve. The eyes are blue and slightly rounded or almond-shaped. The short, fine coat is pointed, with darker color on the face, ears, legs and tail, in a range of colors including seal, chocolate, blue and lilac. Weight ranges from about six to twelve pounds.

Compare this with the modern Siamese, which has a very long, tubular body, a long wedge head and huge ears.

Personality

Thai cats are social, intelligent and talkative. They bond strongly with their people, and many like to follow them, sit on their shoulders and chat. They are often described as a little calmer than modern Siamese, though they remain active and curious. They enjoy puzzle toys, climbing and games of fetch.

They do not like being left alone for long periods, and they do best with a companion. See cat separation anxiety and leaving a cat alone. They tend to get along with children and other pets. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.

Because they are clever, they benefit from enrichment and training. See indoor cat enrichment ideas and clicker training a cat.

Grooming

The short, fine coat is easy. Brush or comb weekly to remove loose hair. See how to brush a cat. Brush teeth, trim nails and clean ears. See cat dental disease and how to trim cat nails.

Health

Thai cats are often considered healthier than extreme modern Siamese, but they still carry some of the same risks.

• Dental disease. See cat dental disease.
• Respiratory problems. Some Siamese-type cats get asthma. See feline asthma.
• Heart disease. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
• Progressive retinal atrophy, which occurs in some lines. See cat eye problems.
• Crossed eyes and kinked tails, older traits that breeders try to avoid.
• Stress-related issues. See why do cats overgroom.

Is it the right cat for you?

A Thai cat suits people who love the Siamese personality but prefer a more natural body. It is a great fit for households with someone at home, or other pets. It is not ideal for a person who wants a quiet or independent cat. See best cat breeds for families. If you want a similar cat with a calmer, plusher nature, see the Tonkinese.

Finding a Thai cat

Thai cats are uncommon. Because the term is used differently by different registries, ask exactly how the cat is registered, ask about its parentage and health, and visit the breeder if you can. See how to choose a kitten. Rescue groups sometimes have traditional-type Siamese cats. See adopting a cat from a shelter.

Living with a Thai cat

Provide climbing trees, window perches and toys. See how to choose a cat tree. Keep your cat indoors or in a catio. See how to build a catio.

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.