Himalayan Cat History

Origins: United States (a deliberate hybrid creation)

The Himalayan, sometimes called the Colorpoint Persian, was developed by crossing Persians with Siamese cats. The goal was to combine the Persian's luxurious coat with the Siamese's striking colorpoint pattern.

Key Development Milestones:

• 1930s: Breeding programs initiated by Virginia Cobb and Dr. Clyde Keeler.
• 1950s: Breeder Marguerita Goforth successfully established the breed in the United States.
• 1957: The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognized Himalayans as a separate breed.
• 1984: The CFA reclassified them as a color variety of the Persian breed.
• Today: Some registries still consider them a distinct breed, while others categorize them under Persian.

Naming: The breed is named after Himalayan rabbits, which share similar dark-pointed coloration.

Physical Characteristics

Facial Structure: A Critical Difference

Show/Peke-Face Persian:

• Extremely flat, brachycephalic face.
• Nose is set between or below the eyes.
• Large, round, wide-set eyes.
• Very small, snub nose.
• Pronounced "pushed-in" appearance.
• Associated with significant health implications.

Traditional/Doll-Face Persian:

• Moderately flat facial structure.
• Nose set at or slightly below eye level.
• A more natural, less extreme feline profile.
• Experiences fewer breathing difficulties.
• Not accepted in most show rings but favored by many pet owners.

Himalayan:

• Always features a traditional/doll-face structure (never the extreme peke-face).
• Moderately flat face.
• Nose leather matches the color of its points.
• Brilliant blue eyes are required by the breed standard.
• Generally has fewer breathing issues than show-quality Persians.

Body Structure Comparison

Coat and Color Characteristics

Persian Coat:

• Exceptionally long, fine, and silky.
• Features a magnificent neck ruff and ear tufts.
• Requires extensive, daily maintenance to prevent mats.
• Accepted Colors: All colors and patterns are accepted, including solids, silvers, tabbies, particolors, and colorpoints.

Himalayan Coat:

• Identical in texture and length to the Persian coat.
• Colorpoint Pattern is Mandatory: A light-colored body (cream/white) with darker "points" on the face, ears, legs, and tail.
• Mandatory Blue Eyes.
• Point Colors Include: Seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, flame, cream, tortie, and lynx (tabby) points.

Temperament and Personality

Persian Personality

Core Traits:

• Sweet and Gentle: Often described as "furniture with fur" due to their calm nature.
• Quiet and Calm: Very low activity level; masters of relaxation.
• Affectionate but Selective: Forms deep, loyal bonds with family members.
• Patient and Dignified: Excellent with gentle, respectful children.
• Reserved with Strangers: Takes time to warm up to new people.

Himalayan Personality

Core Traits:

• Sweet and Affectionate: Shares the Persian's loving nature.
• Slightly More Playful: Exhibits a touch of Siamese curiosity and energy.
• Intelligent and Engaging: May enjoy puzzle toys and interactive games.
• Softly Vocal: More communicative than Persians, but not overly loud.
• Loyal and Sensitive: Highly attuned to their owner's emotions.

Temperament Comparison

Grooming Requirements: A Major Commitment

Both breeds demand identical, intensive grooming due to their long, dense coats.

Essential Daily & Weekly Routine

Daily Tasks (10-15 minutes):

• Face Cleaning: Gently wipe eyes and facial folds to prevent tear staining and infection.
• Combing: Use a wide-tooth metal comb followed by a fine-tooth comb to prevent tangles and mats.

Weekly/Periodic Tasks:

• Bathing: Every 4-6 weeks with cat-specific shampoo to keep the coat clean and healthy.
• Full Grooming Session: 30-45 minutes for a thorough comb-through, mat check, ear cleaning, and nail trimming.

Professional Grooming Options

Many owners opt for professional help:

• Lion Cut: A full-body clip ($60-$100) for easier maintenance.
• Professional Bath & Blow-Dry: $50-$80.
• Frequency: Every 6-8 weeks is common for busy owners.

Health Considerations

Brachycephalic Syndrome

Both breeds face challenges due to their flat faces, though it's often more severe in show Persians.

Common Issues Include:

• Breathing Difficulties: Stenotic nares (narrow nostrils), elongated soft palate, heat sensitivity.
• Eye Problems: Excessive tearing (epiphora), corneal ulcers, entropion (inward-rolling eyelids).
• Dental Issues: Crowded teeth and malocclusion due to the shortened jaw.
• Facial Fold Dermatitis: Skin infections in facial wrinkles requiring daily cleaning.

Breed-Specific Genetic Concerns

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic condition affecting a significant percentage of Persians. A DNA test (PKD1) is available and essential for responsible breeding.

Other Concerns: Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). Himalayans share all Persian health concerns but may have a slightly lower incidence of PKD in some lines.

Life Expectancy:

• Persian: 10-15 years (often shorter for extreme peke-face types).
• Himalayan: 12-16 years.

Cost of Ownership

Initial Costs

• Persian (Pet Quality): $800 - $2,500
• Himalayan (Pet Quality): $800 - $2,500
• Adoption from Rescue: $75 - $200 (less common for purebreds)

Estimated Monthly Costs

Note: Annual veterinary care, including potential dental work ($400-$800), can add $1,000+ per year.

Making Your Choice: Persian or Himalayan?

Choose a Persian If You:

• Desire an exceptionally calm, low-energy lap cat.
• Want the widest possible variety of coat colors and patterns.
• Are prepared for the most intensive grooming regimen, especially for show-types.
• Appreciate a cat that is content being a serene, observing companion.

Choose a Himalayan If You:

• Love the Persian's elegance but want a slightly more interactive personality.
• Are captivated by the striking colorpoint pattern and brilliant blue eyes.
• Prefer a cat with a moderately flat face, which may have fewer health complications.
• Enjoy a gentle, affectionate cat with a hint of Siamese-like curiosity.

Final Verdict

Persians and Himalayans are not low-maintenance pets. They are commitments to daily grooming, potential health management, and a strictly indoor lifestyle. However, for the right owner, they offer unparalleled beauty, gentle affection, and dignified companionship.

The Persian is the ultimate symbol of quiet luxury, while the Himalayan offers that same grace with a dash more personality. Your choice ultimately depends on your preference for activity level, facial structure, and color pattern. Whichever you choose, you will gain a devoted, stunning companion that will enrich your home for years to come.

Related Reading:

• The Complete Guide to Grooming Long-Haired Cats
• Understanding and Caring for Brachycephalic Cat Breeds
• Persian Cat Health: A Guide to PKD and Common Issues
• Creating the Perfect Indoor Environment for Your Cat