They both have long hairs with similar color points and dark marks around their feet and faces. The Himalayan cats are a hybrid between the Persian and Siamese cats.
If you are looking to have an attractive furry feline as a pet, a Himalayan cat might be just right for you. They are good-looking and are easy to maintain. They also have a loving personality and love being on their owner’s laps. Because they are hybrids, Himalayan cats are quite expensive as it takes a lot of effort and time to achieve success with crossbreeding.
Factors Affecting The Cost Of Himalayan Cats
Age
The cost of Himalayan cats depends on their age. Despite their need for more attention and care, kittens are generally more expensive than older cats. The high cost of maintenance of the smaller cats also affects their prices.
Color
The Himalayan cats are most loved for their color points and long soft coat. Those that combine the Persian look and the characteristic color points of the Siamese are more desirable and expensive.
Breeder
Cat breeders are professionals who make crosses between cats to achieve hybrids. When some characteristics are desired in a cat, a cross is made between two cats that have those desirable characteristics. The offspring are then crossed successively to achieve the desired traits.
To get your Himalayan cat, you must choose a professional breeder who abides by standards and breeding ethics.
Health
Because of their hybrid nature, Himalayan cats are prone to diseases and health challenges including respiratory problems. Healthy cats are more expensive than those with health challenges or deformities.
Himalayan Cat Description
The Himalayan cat combines the features of the Persian and Siamese cats. It is a Persian in Siamese costume that was established by mixing the Persian cat with the Siamese cat. It has a characteristic broad head sitting on a short neck and round blue eyes with a short nose. It is of a moderate size that culminates into a short body and an average weight of 7-12 pounds. It has a short tail, short limbs, and a long glossy coat that graces the stubby body.
Himalayan cats make a perfect home companion by combining the meekness of the Persian and the vibrance of the Siamese cats.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Himalayan Cat
Your availability
Due to their potential of becoming attached to their owners, you should factor in your availability to take care of Himalayan cats before you buy one. If your daily schedule would not afford you the time to care for your Himmie, you may need to arrange for alternatives while you are away.
Your age
If you are older or living with kids, you might need to choose an older cat that’s already trained and screened for diseases to reduce frequent visits to the vet. Older people might also prefer mature cats because of the time commitment to their care.
Cost
Owning a cat comes with associated costs. You need to get litter, litter boxes, toys, food, carriers, scratching posts, and also pay vet bills. Prepare to spend over $3000 in the first year of buying a cat and up to half of that in the subsequent years.
Himalayan Cats Facts
They have a resemblance to Persian cats and are usually mistaken for Persian. They can easily become attached to their owners so much that they need constant attention and pampering. They are susceptible to a lot of diseases including respiratory problems, excessive fluids from the eyes, heat sensitivity, and kidney diseases. They require daily grooming because of their long, thick furs. Their short legs make them unable to climb or jump too high. They are nicknamed long-haired colorpoint or Himmies.
Conclusion
Himalayan cats are loving and adorable pets that make great companions. Their hybrid nature makes them highly sought after by pet lovers. They have a special appearance and personality that makes a perfect combination of the Persian and Siamese cats’ traits. However, owning a Himalayan comes with a lot of responsibilities that should be taken care of including cost and awareness of the potential health challenges of the Himalayan cats.
- What is the most important need of a Himalayan cat?
All pets have essential needs including grooming and health checks, but the most important need of a Himalayan cat is security and adequate care and attention.
- Why are Himalayan cats so expensive?
The Himalayan cats are rare and expensive because of their hybrid nature. The combination of these traits is even highly coveted and contributes to the cost of Himalayan cats.
