• Created by intentionally crossing Persians with Siamese cats.
• Primary goal: Achieve the Persian body type with Siamese colorpoint markings.
• First organized breeding programs began in the 1930s.
• Named for their resemblance to Himalayan rabbits, which share similar coloration.
• Initially classified by the CFA as a separate breed.

Recognition Evolution:

• Classification has been a topic of long-standing debate among registries.
• Since 1984, the CFA considers the Himalayan a color division of the Persian breed.
• Some international registries still maintain it as a distinct breed.
• Responsible breeding often includes outcrossing to Persians.

Current Status:

• Functionally considered a colorpoint Persian.
• Adheres to the Persian breed standard in all aspects except color and eye color.
• Breeding between Persians and Himalayans is permitted within the same registry.

Physical Characteristics Comparison

Size and Build

Identical Structure: Both breeds share the quintessential Persian "cobby" body type. The primary physical distinction is their coloring.

Head and Face

Brachycephalic Considerations: This extreme facial structure can lead to several health considerations for both breeds:

• Breathing difficulties (Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome)
• Chronic eye drainage and tear staining
• Increased risk of dental malocclusions
• Reduced heat tolerance

Coat Characteristics

Color Differences:

Persian Colors:

• Solids: White, Black, Blue, Red, Cream.
• Silver & Golden: Chinchilla, shaded, smoke.
• Patterns: Tabby, Calico, Tortoiseshell, Bicolor.
• Parti-Color: Van, Harlequin.

Himalayan Colors (Colorpoint Pattern Only):

• Traditional Points: Seal, Blue, Chocolate, Lilac.
• Red Series Points: Flame (Red), Cream.
• Tortie Points: Seal-Tortie, Blue-Cream, etc.
• Lynx (Tabby) Points: Various colors with tabby striping on points.

Temperament and Personality

Persian Personality

Core Traits:

• Exceptionally calm, placid, and serene.
• Quiet and generally undemanding.
• Affectionate but not overly clingy.
• Very low activity level; true couch potatoes.
• Possess a sweet, gentle, and patient disposition.
• Ideal for calm, quiet households.

Behavioral Characteristics:

• Prefer lounging and observing over vigorous play.
• Perfectly content as indoor-only companions.
• Thrive on gentle petting and quiet companionship.
• Not typically avid climbers or high jumpers.
• May engage in short, gentle play sessions.
• Seek out warm, soft spots for napping.
• Have a quiet voice and rarely vocalize.
• Tolerant of gentle, respectful children.

Activity Level: Very Low
Vocalization: Very Quiet
Independence: Moderate
Intelligence: Moderate

Himalayan Personality

Core Traits:

• Inherits the Persian's calm and gentle nature.
• May display a slightly higher activity level than the Persian.
• Deeply affectionate and people-oriented.
• Generally quiet and soft-spoken.
• Sweet-tempered and devoted companions.

Behavioral Characteristics:

• Temperament is overwhelmingly similar to the Persian.
• Might show more interest in interactive toys.
• Still considered a low-energy breed.
• Love comfort and will seek out warm laps.
• Excellent lap cats with a peaceful presence.

Activity Level: Low
Vocalization: Very Quiet
Independence: Moderate
Intelligence: Moderate

Temperament Comparison Summary

Health Comparison

Shared Health Concerns

Both breeds face identical health challenges due to their shared brachycephalic structure and Persian genetics.

Brachycephalic Syndrome:

• Breathing difficulties and snoring.
• Stenotic nares (narrowed nostrils).
• Elongated soft palate.
• Exercise and heat intolerance.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):

• An inherited condition causing cysts to form in the kidneys.
• A reliable DNA test is available; always request proof of testing.
• Can lead to progressive kidney failure.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA):

• An inherited degenerative eye disease.
• DNA test available to identify carriers.
• Eventually leads to blindness.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM):

• A form of heart disease common in cats.
• Annual echocardiogram screening is strongly recommended.

Grooming-Related Health Issues

Both Breeds Require Vigilance For:

• Skin infections and dermatitis under mats.
• Frequent hairballs due to excessive grooming.
• Severe matting that can restrict movement and cause sores.
• Chronic tear staining leading to facial skin irritation.

Lifespan and Health Summary

Average Lifespan:

• Persian: 10-15 years
• Himalayan: 10-15 years

Lifespan is highly dependent on genetics, preventative care, and management of breed-specific issues.

Recommended Health Testing (Estimated Costs):

• PKD DNA Test: $50 - $100
• PRA DNA Test: $50 - $100
• Annual HCM Screening (Echo): $300 - $500
• Annual Wellness Exam & Bloodwork: $300 - $600

Care Requirements

Grooming Needs: A Non-Negotiable Commitment

Daily Requirements (For Both Breeds):

• A full 15-30 minute brushing/combing session to prevent mats.
• Gentle face cleaning to manage tear stains.
• Wiping away eye drainage.
• A thorough check for any new tangles or mats.

Weekly/Bi-Weekly Requirements:

• Bathing every 2-4 weeks is common to keep the coat clean and manageable.
• Nail trimming.
• Ear cleaning.
• Application of a coat conditioner if bathing.

Professional Grooming Options:

• "Lion Cut" (Summer Shave): $60 - $120
• Full Professional Groom & Bath: $80 - $150 per session
• Recommended Frequency: Every 4 to 8 weeks for professional maintenance.

Estimated Annual Grooming Costs:

Environmental & Lifestyle Needs

Temperature Control is Critical:

• Essential air conditioning in warm or humid weather.
• Provide heated beds or pads in cooler months.
• Strictly indoor-only lifestyle to protect their coat and manage heat sensitivity.
• Ensure access to cool, tiled surfaces or cooling mats.

Exercise & Enrichment:

• Minimal physical exercise requirements.
• Short, interactive play sessions with wand toys or laser pointers.
• Provide comfortable perches at low heights.
• Puzzle feeders can provide gentle mental stimulation.

Costs of Ownership

Initial Costs (Kitten)

Annual Recurring Costs

Estimated Lifetime Cost (12 Years)

These estimates include routine care but not major, unexpected medical emergencies.

Choosing Between the Breeds

Choose a Persian If:

• You desire the widest possible variety of coat colors and patterns.
• Solid, tabby, bicolor, or smoky coats appeal to you more than colorpoints.
• You prefer the look of eye colors that complement the coat (copper, green, blue-eyed whites).
• You want the classic, traditional Persian appearance in all its colorful forms.
• You are fully prepared for the intensive, daily grooming regimen.

Choose a Himalayan If:

• You are captivated by the striking contrast of the Siamese-style colorpoint pattern.
• Brilliant blue eyes are a must-have feature for you.
• You want the quintessential Persian personality paired with a specific, dramatic look.
• Seal point, blue point, or flame point coloring is your ideal.
• You understand and accept the identical, high-maintenance grooming needs.

Key Similarities Between Breeds

Ultimately, Persians and Himalayans share far more than they differ:

• Identical body structure, size, and bone density.
• The same brachycephalic facial structure and associated health considerations.
• Identical high-maintenance, daily grooming requirements.
• The same calm, placid, and gentle temperament.
• A strict indoor-only lifestyle necessity.
• Sweet, quiet, and affectionate personalities.
• A strong preference for comfort, warmth, and a peaceful home.

Conclusion

The Persian and Himalayan are, for all practical purposes, a single breed distinguished primarily by color genetics. Your choice between them ultimately boils down to aesthetic preference: the vast rainbow of Persian colors versus the elegant, contrasted colorpoint pattern of the Himalayan.

Both breeds demand a significant and unwavering commitment. Prospective owners must be prepared for daily grooming sessions, regular professional grooming assistance, vigilant health monitoring, and the financial responsibility that comes with a brachycephalic breed.

For the right person or family—one that values tranquil companionship, stunning beauty, and can meet their substantial care needs—both the Persian and Himalayan offer a uniquely gentle, loving, and serene presence in the home for years to come.