Naturally we think all cats are fab! However, when choosing any pet, it’s important to consider whether their personality and care needs suit you and your family, as well as considering any potential health issues. So, let’s take a look at whether Balinese cats make good pets. 

History  

Balinese cats are basically long-haired versions of Siamese cats! In the past, some litters of Siamese cats were accidentally producing some long-haired kittens (through spontaneous mutation). In 1928, the then Cat Fanciers Association registered ‘long-haired Siamese’ as show cats for the first time. In the 1950s, Siamese breeders in the United States started intentionally breeding these long-haired Siamese cats, resulting in the breed now known as ‘Balinese’. In the 1970s, the Cat Fanciers Association officially recognised ‘Balinese’ as a breed. 

Balinese cats are all ‘colour point’, meaning that their body is cream and their colour is on their face, ears, legs and tail. Balinese cats can come in many different colour points (34 in total!), including those seen in Siamese cats (seal, blue, chocolate and lilac). They have a fine, silky, single coat. They are dainty and elegant, whilst also being well muscled. 

Temperament 

Balinese cats are probably best known for their affectionate behaviour. They often enjoy curling up on a lap or jumping into bed with their owners! They are also very playful and inquisitive. Although well known for being vocal, they are usually slightly less chatty (but only slightly less demanding!) than Siamese cats. 

Balinese cats are very intelligent, meaning they can be easy to train. They are also pretty energetic, and love to play.   

Health  

Balinese cats are generally considered quite healthy. However, there are some genetic (inherited) disorders which can affect Oriental breeds of cat, including the Balinese. Thes include: 

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) 

PRA is a group of genetic disorders which cause degeneration of the retina. The retina is the layer at the back of the eye which converts light into the electrical signals which tell the brain what you are seeing. In PRA, as the retina deteriorates, the cat’s vision also deteriorates. In some cases, it can lead to total blindness. Both Siamese and Balinese cats (amongst others) are predisposed to PRA. Unfortunately, PRA cannot be cured or treated. However, cats can learn to adapt and live a perfectly good quality of life. 

Cats with PRA should not be used for breeding. There is also a test for PRA, to see if a cat carries the gene. So, if you are considering getting a Balinese kitten, then it’s a good idea to check that the parents have been tested.  

Asthma 

A predisposition towards feline asthma can also be inherited. Asthma is inflammation of the airways, often caused by an allergy or inhaled irritant. It is more common in certain breeds, including Siamese and  Balinese. The signs of asthma in cats are similar to the symptoms in people. So, symptoms include coughing, wheezing, fast or open-mouthed breathing, panting, and trouble breathing. Most cats with asthma can be successfully treated, although it is likely that they will need treatment throughout their life. 

Systemic amyloidosis 

In systemic amyloidosis, protein is deposited in organs around the body, where it shouldn’t be. This can eventually lead to organ failure, such as kidney failure. Amyloidosis is more common in some Oriental breeds, including Siamese cats. Balinese cats may also be predisposed. 

Siamese cats are also prone to  

  • mediastinal lymphoma (cancer of the mediastinum, which is in the chest),  
  • pyloric stenosis (narrowing of the exit from the stomach to the small intestine),  
  • strabismus (having a squint or being cross-eyed) and  
  • small intestinal adenocarcinoma (cancer of the small intestine). 

Due to their genetic past, Balinese cats may be prone to similar problems.  

Before choosing a cat or kitten, it’s advisable to check the medical history of the parents and grandparents, as well as asking about any genetic testing that the breeder has carried out. 

Care requirements 

Balinese cats have a single silky coat (so unlike other Oriental breeds, they have no undercoat), meaning they aren’t prone to matts. They don’t tend to shed too much either! Naturally, all long haired cats require some grooming. So, they will still need brushing at least once a week, to keep their coat in tip top shape. 

Due to their energetic nature, Balinese cats need lots of physical exercise. Plenty of toys and play time are needed! They tend to enjoy climbing and being up high, so providing plenty of high resting and climbing areas will keep them happy… as well as save your furniture! They are also a very intelligent and sociable breed, so need mental stimulation and company too. As a result, they usually fit in well with children and other pets, often making good family pets. On the flipside, their sociable nature can mean they don’t like to be left alone for long periods of time.  

There are plenty of things you can do to make your home ‘Balinese friendly”! As well as considering all the usual ‘cat friendly’ adaptations for your home; Balinese cats tend to enjoy cat climbing trees, scratching posts, and high beds or ledges. You could also consider playing games with your Balinese cat, designed with your cat’s physical and mental stimulation in mind. 

In conclusion, Balinese cats can make fun, sociable pets. However, they do require a fair amount of mental and physical stimulation. They are also fairly vocal! Each family or household is different, so there’s no ‘one breed suits all’. It’s really important that you do your research before welcoming any pet into your home. That way you can be sure they will fit in well with your home, and that you can fulfil all their needs. If you are buying a cat, rather than rehoming, remember to always look for reputable breeders who have carried out all the necessary pre-breeding tests too. If you have any questions or concerns, speak with your vet for advice before you make a decision.