25.07.2022

All you need to know about the Himalayan Persian cat

A mix between the Siamese and Persian cats, Himalayans are unique and beautiful. Nicknamed the colourpoint Persians, these kitties have Persian cats’ physical and psychological characteristics, including flat faces and long coats with signature Siamese markings on their face, ears, lower legs, and tail. 

Untamed explains where the Himalayan Persian cat comes from, their general traits, and the best care regimen for the breed. We’ll also give your advice on Himalayan health maintenance, grooming needs, and the ideal diet to keep your feline companion fit and thriving.

Himalayan Persian cat—the origin of the breed

Unlike most mixed cats, the Himalayans have a linear history. They date back to the 1930s and were developed as a cross between a Siamese and a Persian. As they became more popular, different clubs accepted Himalayan cats as an official breed (mainly during the 1950s). By the 1960s, every United States registry had recognised the Himalayan and allowed them to partake in cat shows. 

Many “purebred” Persians have Himalayan blood in their lineage but aren’t considered mixed since the Himalayan is technically a subtype of the breed. 

I might be a mut, but my ancestors are royalty!

Source: Ignacio R

The appearance of Persian Himalayan cats

Here’s a quick overview of the basic Himalayan physical characteristics:

Besides their Siamese-like points, Himalayan cats have all the unique physical traits of Persians, including:

• Round heads
• Flat faces
• Large, protruding eyes
• Small ears
• Long fur

Himalayan felines’ temperament

Like all Persians, Himalayans have amiable personalities, but they’re not as lazy and mellow. You can expect your fluffy friend to be:

• Social—These kitties tend to be affectionate with their cat parents, other kitties, and dogs. They adore snoozing in your lap all day long, don’t like to be left alone, and will run to greet you when you come home
• Intelligent—Unlike Persians, Himalayans are smart kitties. They can learn complex tricks and like to explore even though they're not particularly streetwise, so you shouldn’t let them wander the neighbourhood unsupervised 
• Adaptable—Himalayans will be as lazy or active as you teach them. They’ll adapt to any lifestyle but lean more towards sedentary ways because the unique facial structure makes them susceptible to respiratory issues
• Playful—While they won’t destroy your furniture and curtains as most felines would, Himalayans don’t cope well with boredom. They adore playtime, with fetch and hide-and-seek being their favourite games. If you can’t spend a lot of time with them (30 minutes a day should be a minimum), give them interactive toys and room to play or get another pet to keep them company 
• Quiet—Himalayans rarely vocalise their dissatisfaction or get the 3 a.m. zoomies. They’re chill and not fussy at all. While this trait makes them fantastic companions, you shouldn’t neglect their needs or leave them alone for too long

I’ll play with you. Just let me finish the nap first.

Source: Claudia Schmalz

How to care for Himalayan Persian kitties

Despite their calm nature, Himalayans can be high-maintenance because of their long coats and susceptibility to health issues. Ensure their health and longevity with:

1. Regular vet visits
2. Daily grooming
3. Balanced diet

Visit the vet regularly to keep your Himalayan healthy

No matter how healthy your Himalayan is, you should visit the vet twice a year. They’ll be able to recognise common diseases in the early stages and prevent them on time. Check-ups are vital during kittenhood and senior years since cats’ immune systems are weaker then. 

If you’ve adopted a kitten, contact your vet immediately to schedule the necessary shots, including:

• Rabies vaccine
• Combination vaccine FVRCP
• Feline enteritis
• Cat flu
• Feline leukaemia

Common health issues in Persian Himalayan cats

Being a sub-breed of the Persian, Himalayans are prone to similar health issues, such as: 

• Worms and parasites—Himalayans are susceptible to worms and parasites during kittenhood (especially roundworms), which could cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tarry faeces, weight loss, skin lesions, and excessive shedding. A proper diet and deworming medication should prevent the problem
• Hereditary health issues—Like all Persians, Himalayans often suffer from genetic diseases, including polycystic kidney disease (PKD), skin conditions, eye problems, respiratory issues, and heart problems. While prevention is impossible, suitable medication, an active lifestyle, and a healthy diet will help manage the symptoms
• Lifestyle-related issues—Poor dietary habits, lack of exercise, and lack of grooming could lead to obesity, diabetes, UTIs, skin conditions, and dental diseases

Did you call me fat? I’m just fluffy!

Source: Claudia Schmalz

How to groom a Himalayan cat

Himalayans are famous for their charming flat faces and long, thick fur, but these features make grooming a challenge. Daily sessions are essential for coat maintenance and the prevention of excessive shedding, hairballs, and skin rashes. 

Your Himalayan’s routine should consist of:

• Brushing—Himalayans’ long silky coats can quickly become tangled and greasy without daily brushing. Use a wide-toothed comb to gently brush through their fur and remove excess hair. It will also prevent dander (dead skin flakes) from spreading around your home, which is vital for allergic cat parents since these kitties aren’t hypoallergenic
• Eye cleaning—Their protruding and sensitive eyes often create excess discharge that could cause an injection and skin rash in that area. Wipe your Himalayan’s eyes with a cotton ball and warm water daily
• Ear cleaning—While their ears aren’t too sensitive, their small size can prevent you from spotting infections. These infections could be excrutiating, smelly, and cause severe problems if left untreated. Wiping your cat’s ears with a cotton ball and vet-recommended ear-cleaning products should be enough to prevent the problem
• Nail trimming—Trim your feline’s nails every two to three weeks to protect your furniture and avoid ingrown claws. If your Himalayan doesn’t go out, they can’t file their nails in nature, so regular trimming and a scratching post are the only ways to get the same effect
• Dental care—Brushing your cat’s teeth is an essential part of their grooming routine. Himalayans’ facial structure makes them susceptible to dental issues, including gum disease and tooth loss, so daily brushing and dental food are necessary
• Bathing—Himalayans despise water, so bathing can be an issue. Bathe them once every two to three months or more frequently if they get dirty while playing outside

Cats inevitably shed and have hairballs, but with frequent grooming and a nutritious, healthy diet, you can control the hair loss.

The perfect diet for your Himalayan

Your Himalayan’s diet is a crucial aspect of their health maintenance. Poor nutrition can lead to obesity and related health issues, including diabetes, UTIs, bladder stones, and kidney problems.

Their diet must be complete and balanced with adequate amounts of:

1. Animal protein, which is your felines’ primary source of energy and contains essential amino acids, such as taurine and arginine, that sustain a functioning immune system. All cats are obligate carnivores and need meat to thrive. Plant-based proteins cannot deliver the necessary micronutrients and often cause indigestion
2. Animal fat in chicken, turkey, duck, mackerel, salmon, tuna, and shrimp, which helps felines stay nourished, maintain healthy skin and coat, and reduce inflammation

Himalayans are notoriously fussy eaters who often dislike wet and dry food. Putting them on a wet-food diet with moderate amounts of animal fat (below 20%) should maintain a healthy appetite. 

While dry food is a cheaper and cleaner type of food with a longer shelf life, it’s often filled with grains, cereals, and sugar, which are high in carbs and unhealthy calories. Stay away from these ingredients since they can cause allergies, tummy sensitivity, and obesity.

Is it time for dinner yet? 

Source: Claudia Schmalz

Untamed—the perfect choice for your Himalayan

Untamed prioritises your Himalayan’s well-being with healthy and delicious meals. Our yummy gravy and jelly dishes contain all the essential nutrients your sensitive and fussy kitty won’t be able to resist! 

Every meal on our menu features:

1. Huge amounts of animal protein
2. Vet-formulated recipes
3. Ethical production methods

Huge amounts of animal protein

Untamed products contain human-grade meat and fish and not much else. We don’t add potentially harmful ingredients, including:

• Artificial flavouring
• Added colourants
• Known allergens
• Meat derivatives 

Our gentle steaming methods remove pathogens while preserving vitamins, minerals, and natural aromas.

Vet-formulated recipes

All our recipes are developed in collaboration with vets to ensure your Himalayan stays healthy and satiated with the perfect balance of essential nutrients and impeccable taste. Our goal is to help your feline enjoy every life stage, from kittenhood and adulthood well into their senior years. 

Ethical production methods

Untamed cares about the planet as much as your Himalayan’s health, so we abide by the following rules:

• 100% recyclable packaging
• Ethically-reared meat
• Sustainably caught and dolphin-safe seafood

Offer your Himalayan the healthiest and most delicious cat food by ordering Untamed now!

Untamed provides delicious and healthy supplies every month!

Image (c) Untamed

Where can you get Untamed for your kitty?

Ordering our cat food online entails the following simple steps:

1. Tell us about your cat
2. Create a tailor-made meal plan
3. Order your taster pack

The goods will arrive in a day! We can replenish your supplies every month so that your kitty never runs out of their favourites! Our monthly subscription includes no additional shipping costs, and you have the option to change, postpone, or cancel your shipment whenever you want.

According to Himalayan cat parents who have switched their felines to Untamed, you can expect the following positive changes: