Thai and Siamese cats have a common ancestor, the same homeland, and significant external similarities. It is not surprising that many consider them representatives of the same breed. This misconception is especially widespread in the CIS countries, where all cats with a dark face, light body and blue eyes are called Siamese, although they are often representatives of the Thai breed. Let's look at the similarities and differences between Siamese and Thai cats.
Origin of Thai and Siamese cats
Contrary to popular belief, Siamese and Thai cats are not the same breed. Although both of them originate from Siam - modern Thailand. Initially, cats arose in Siam, which began to be called “Siamese”. Under the same name, the purr began to be exported abroad.
Later, another breed was developed through crossing. It was originally called the same, Siamese. However, there were a number of differences between it and its predecessor. In view of this, they decided to consider Thais and Siamese as two different breeds. The second began to be called “Thai”.
Despite the fact that the history of the formation of these breeds is somewhat confusing, Thai cats are still remembered as “Old Siamese”, that is, traditional Siamese. The exterior of the new breed is robust and corresponds to the concept of a well-built animal. In this way, the animals are very similar to Siamese cats of the 18th century.
An external description of the Thais is found in the “Book of Poems about Cats” of the 14th century. There are also drawings of all the domestic cats living in Thailand at that time. Thai cats were kept in the palaces of kings and in Buddhist stupas. They were officially recognized as a breed only in 1990. The standard turned out to be developed even later.
The history of the Siamese cat breed goes back more than 600 years. In Thailand, they were considered nothing less than sacred: they enjoyed universal respect, were present at ceremonies and rituals, and were even officially protected at the legislative level. It was prohibited to export Siamese cats outside the country.
They began their journey around the world only at the end of the 19th century. The Siamese were very fond of Europeans. They began to be presented at exhibitions, the first of which was held in London in 1871. The breed standard was developed in 1892.
Over time, the appearance of Siamese cats has undergone changes. Today they do not look like round, squat beauties, which greatly facilitates the process of distinguishing them from the Thai breed.
History of the origin of breeds
The ancestor of both breeds appeared in Siam in the 14th century. Back then, a cat with an unusual appearance was considered sacred. Local residents were in no hurry to sell the animal to foreigners. That is why the breed came to Europe and America only at the end of the 19th century. European and American breeders put a lot of effort into creating a new breed based on the exported cats, which was later officially called the Siamese.
In ancient times, Siamese cats lived at the temples and chambers of the ruling family. Animals were protected from strangers. For kidnapping and attempting to take out a cat, the daredevil could pay with his life.
As a result of selection, the Siamese cat began to differ significantly in appearance from its ancestors. Fans of traditional Siamese decided to work on creating a new breed that is more similar to their ancestors. For selection, animals were used that were preserved in Thailand (Siam received this name in the middle of the 20th century). In 1991, the breed was officially recognized. Since the name “Siamese cat” was already taken, the breed was called Thai.
Thai cat and Siamese cat: external differences
As a rule, Thai and Siamese cats are confused due to the same color. However, in other respects these are completely different animals:
- Thai cats have a small and harmoniously built body. Siamese, on the other hand, have a more elongated and flexible shape that borders on thinness;
- Compared to the Siamese, the Thais are real giants. Their weight can reach 8 kilograms due to their dense muscles. Siamese cats are more graceful. Usually their weight does not exceed 3-4 kilograms;
- the paws of Thai cats are medium in size, while those of Siamese cats are longer and thinner;
- The Siamese's tail looks like a whip. It is thin and long. The Thais have a shorter and thicker tail;
- The face of Siamese cats is similar to a wedge. If you visually draw a line from the tips of your ears to the tip of your nose, you will get an equilateral triangle. Thais, on the other hand, have round heads. The difference is noticeable even if you look at the animals in profile. Among the Siamese it is almost straight, while among the Thais it has a depression at eye level;
- The shape of the eyes itself is also different. Siamese cats have almond-shaped, slanted eyes, Thai cats have huge and round eyes;
- Thais have small ears with rounded tips, Siamese have large, wide and pointed ears.
Thai cat
Siamese cat
Despite the visible differences, both breeds have, in addition to color, other common features. First of all, this concerns eye color. Both Thais and Siamese have irises of a rich blue color. The type of coat is also the same: the coat of these cats is short, silky and has no undercoat.
This is interesting! The color-point color of Thai and Siamese cats has subspecies:
- seal point (black on a light fawn background);
- blue point (blue on cream);
- chocolate point (light brown on almost white);
- red point (red on white and apricot);
- torti (tortoiseshell color).
How to distinguish a kitten
If it is not difficult to distinguish an adult Siamese and a Thai by appearance, then determining the breed of newborn kittens is much more difficult due to the fact that the obvious distinctive characteristics of the breed in a kitten appear only by the 3rd month of life.
In order not to be deceived when buying a Siamese pet, pay attention to the following signs:
- elongated wedge shape of the skull, characteristic straight profile;
- thin elongated body on long thin legs;
- ears that are disproportionately large in relation to the head and are set wide apart;
- You can mentally draw an isosceles triangle between the tip of the nose and the corners of the ears;
- oblong elongated eyes with sharp upper corners and a peculiar squint;
- a thin long tail, even along its entire length, with a sharp tip.
The following signs will be characteristic of a little Thai:
- round head with a concave profile at eye level;
- dense, round and well-fed body with strong legs of medium length;
- small ears, like the average domestic cat;
- round wide open eyes;
- the tail is thick at the base, tapering evenly towards the tip.
Remember that it is recommended to take your pet into your home no earlier than three months of age. Then his immune system will be ready to adapt to new conditions, since the separation of a kitten from its mother is always a great stress for the animal.
Differences in the character of Siamese and Thai cats
Thais and Siamese differ not only externally, but also internally. Of course, talking about the character traits of a cat should be done with caution. After all, each animal is individual, and therefore may have its own inclinations and traits, which often depend on the influence of the external environment (place of residence, upbringing in the family, etc.).
Thai cats are great individualists. As a rule, they are calm and fairly balanced. However, this does not negate their curiosity and interest in little things. They are intelligent animals that are highly trainable and can learn even unusual commands.
Thai cats quickly get used to their owners, love family members, and are not jealous. They get along well with other pets and children. You shouldn't leave Thais alone for a long time. If they stay alone for a long time, their mental health may deteriorate.
Playing with these cats is pure pleasure. They are cheerful, active and protect their partner, almost without releasing their claws.
Thai cat
Important! Thai cats are quite talkative. They love to make a variety of sounds when communicating with members of their household. In addition, they have pronounced facial expressions: just by their muzzle alone, it is quite possible to determine the pet’s mood.
Siamese cats also adore their family. However, they are very jealous and often vindictive. If they are often scolded or treated poorly, character damage is guaranteed.
What distinguishes them from the Thais is the way they express emotions. Siamese cats scream rather than meow. Moreover, they can make such sounds exactly until they receive what they need.
Siamese need human attention. They love active games. If the owner does not give all this to the pet, it will wither and become apathetic. However, Siamese cats are willful and independent. You shouldn’t expect them to do what is required without question.
Siamese cats
Important! It is possible to train Siamese only if there is an individual approach to the animal. They understand only affection and care. Punishments are completely unacceptable for them.
Which breed is smarter?
The fact that the intellectual abilities of the Thais is higher than that of the Siamese is undeniable. The Thai cat is famous for its natural cheerfulness, curiosity and good learning ability. It is difficult to outwit her and it is useless to hide the things she likes.
A Thai beauty has the intelligence to open a kitchen cabinet door or drawer. She has an excellent memory - she will remember where you hid your favorite toy, wait until you are distracted, and steal the trophy.
Thais are trainable: in this respect they resemble dogs, they are trained to fetch various things. If the cat understands that it is being played with, it will happily bring the owner a ball or a toy mouse. Like a dog, she understands the commands: “sit”, “lie down” and knows how to give a paw.
Although the Siamese, like the Thais, have high intelligence, their poor learning ability is determined by their independent and freedom-loving nature. One should not expect complete obedience from the Siamese breed; rather, the owner will have to adapt to the character of such a pet.
The attitude of Siamese and Thais towards other pets and children
Breeds have varying degrees of livability. Thai cats do not tend to conflict with other animals. They will not bully those who are smaller or weaker than them. If you offend them, purrs will not take revenge.
In addition, Thai cats love babies and treat them with trepidation. They will not release their claws when playing with a child and will never show aggression.
Siamese can be quite friendly towards their relatives. However, if a new animal becomes a pet, it is difficult to predict how their relationship will develop: after all, Siamese cats are very jealous.
They love to play with children, but you shouldn't leave your baby alone with this purr. Siamese can sometimes be aggressive.
This is interesting! In popular opinion, the difference between Siamese and Thai cats comes down to one thing: the former are considered harmful, and the latter are considered to be willing to please the owner.
Personality of the Mekong Bobtail
Often the habits of these cats are fundamentally different from the generally accepted behavior of cats and are more reminiscent of dogs. They are very devoted to their owner, love to walk on a leash, are easy to train, and over time, kittens can bring small objects to you in their teeth.
Males of the Mekong breed are calmer, always subordinate to their females, get along well with children, allowing them to do whatever they want with them. The female has the full feline essence, they are active, playful and very clean (if they find a mess somewhere, they will tell you about it very loudly). The character of these cats practically does not change with age.
The Mekong Bobtail loves communication very much, gets bored without it and can listen to its owner speak for hours, and even “answer” him with different intonations.
Siamese and Thai: who is smarter?
It is impossible to say for sure which of these animals is smarter. Both Thai and Siamese beauties stand out in the cat world for their intelligence and curiosity. The only difference is that the former are more accommodating, while the latter are much more independent.
Representatives of each breed can be taught order or trained. However, they require a different approach to themselves. A Siamese cat cannot be forced to do anything against its will. But one should not consider her more stupid because of her tendency to be stubborn.
Sacred Burma
What breed of cat is there that is similar to the Siamese, but fluffy? This is sacred Burma.
The story of its origin is surrounded by darkness. There is a version that this animal originated in one of the temples of Burma and was considered sacred. According to another version, in 1919, one representative of the Vanderbilt aristocratic family purchased two such kittens in Manyami for a large sum of cash. Unfortunately, only one kitten made it to France; the second was too weak and died on the way. Because of this, the remaining kitten, which reached sexual maturity, was crossed with some unknown cat, as a result of which Burmese cats appeared.
According to another version, this breed was bred in France. And no matter which version turns out to be true, this breed was registered and the standard was described in France in 1925.
Burmese cats are extremely kind and flexible. But they can still calm down a notorious choleric person and stir up a phlegmatic person.
This cat breed, similar to the Siamese, is moderately energetic, intelligent, unobtrusive, and calm. The Burmese purr is much calmer than its Siamese cousin, almost does not meow and can find something to do at any time if the owner is busy.
What is the difference between Thai and Siamese kittens?
The difference between these breeds is very obvious in adulthood. But in kittens it is much more difficult to find distinctive features.
The dissimilarity between young Thais and Siamese becomes visible at the age of 2-3 months. First of all, the shape of the skull attracts attention. In Thai kittens it is round and compact, in Siamese it is wedge-shaped, plus there are large ears.
The tail is also a definite indicator of the breed. For the Thais it is pointed at the end, but for the Siamese it is long relative to the body and the same in thickness even at the tip.
In addition, there is a characteristic dissimilarity in physique. Thai kittens are plump, while Siamese kittens, which differ from them, are thinner and elongated, with legs that are long relative to the body.
Thai kitten
Siamese kitten
Seychelles cat
This is also a cat breed similar to the Siamese. It got its name from its place of residence - Seychelles. It was from there that it was brought to the UK. She is the same blood of Siamese and Orientals.
She is similar to her Siamese ancestor, the only thing that differs is her large ears of a non-standard shape. Otherwise they are the same. They have blue eyes, their fur is fluffy to the touch, and is often white. The tail of the representatives is the same length as that of Siamese cats; they have a bad character, as they are very demanding of the owner’s attention and do not like to share it with anyone.
Work on this group of cats began in 1984. They continue to this day.
This is a luxurious cat for rich people who are ready to give her all their love and attention. She doesn’t like to be alone and will be happy to “talk” to you. This cat is very delicate and extremely sensitive. She does not like changes to her usual environment; such things can cause her extreme stress.
Which breed should you choose?
Of course, you should choose a breed not only because of its appearance. It is also important that the pet and its future owner have similar personalities. However, before giving preference to a Thai or Siamese, you need to think about the susceptibility of cats of either breed to diseases.
| Diseases of Siamese cats | Diseases of Thai cats |
| Failures in protein metabolism that lead to amyloidosis of the liver and kidneys | Arthritis, dysplasia |
| Cardiomyopathy and heart failure | Cystitis, urocystitis, urolithiasis (in cats) |
| Strabismus (congenital in all representatives of the breed), glaucoma, increased intraocular pressure | Inflammation of the third eyelid (rare) |
| Thyroid dysfunction and hyperthyroidism | Blood diseases that affect clotting (rare) |
Important! The life expectancy of Thais is about 15 years, although some representatives of the breed reached 28.
Siamese cats can live up to two decades. By the way, it is the Siamese named Scooter who currently holds the title of the oldest cat in the world. He was born on March 26, 1986.
Of course, the health of a pet largely depends on its maintenance and care. However, in the case of Thai and Siamese cats there are no particular differences:
- Thais and Siamese do not have an undercoat, so it is necessary to protect them from drafts and hypothermia. For the same reason, the purr should be combed less often: once a week will be enough. And it is better to choose brushes with frequent teeth. It’s not worth washing these cats unless absolutely necessary;
- Representatives of both breeds need to sharpen the claws on their front and hind paws. Therefore, the scratching post should be high and wide;
- The key to the health of Thais and Siamese is regular treatment for parasites and visiting a veterinarian every six months. Both breeds are prone to diseases that are important to treat early;
- It is better to clean your eyes, ears and teeth once a week;
- When cleaning the toilet and bowls, do not use products with a strong chemical odor. This may scare your pet away.
Thai and Siamese cats are different breeds. Of course, they have a number of similar features, but there are many more differences between them. And, before giving preference to any of these breeds for a pet, it is necessary to thoroughly study the characteristics of each.
Similarities
We'll talk about the differences between Siamese and Thai cats a little later, but for now let's figure out what common characteristics these animals have. Both breeds are intelligent, curious and very playful. They become obligatory participants in all family affairs; the animals are extremely sociable and “talkative.”
They have almost the same, or at least very similar color, which on the paws, tail and face can be brown, gray, black or purple. The fur on the body is light. Cats have a characteristic eye color for these breeds - blue or blue. That's all the similarities. If you look at photos of representatives of one and another breed, you will never confuse them again.
