Balinese

Table of Contents

Quick Facts

• Silky, semi‑longhair version of the Siamese, with the same elegant build and striking color points
• Exceptionally chatty and people focused, often following their favorite person from room to room
• Highly intelligent and playful, known for learning tricks, walking on a harness, and opening doors
• Low‑shedding coat without a heavy undercoat, which many owners find easier on allergies than fluffier longhairs
• Thrives in interactive homes with plenty of company, stimulation, and vertical climbing space

Appearance & Coat

The Balinese is a graceful, medium sized cat with a refined yet athletic body. If you picture a classic Siamese and then dress it in a soft, flowing coat, you are very close to the look of a Balinese. The body is long and tubular, with fine but strong bones and well developed muscles. Legs are slender and in proportion to the body, with slightly higher hind legs that give the cat a light, springy stride. The paws are neat and oval, supporting a fluid, dancer‑like movement that many owners instantly fall in love with.

The head has a triangular wedge shape when viewed from the front, with large ears that continue the lines of the wedge. The ears are one of the breed’s trademarks. They are wide at the base and give the cat an alert, almost fairy‑like expression. The eyes are medium sized, almond shaped, and always a clear, vivid blue. In good light, the intensity of the eye color can be striking, particularly against a pale body coat.

Balinese cats share the same color point pattern as Siamese cats. The body is lighter, while the face, ears, paws, and tail show darker color. Common color points include seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac, but many registries also recognize a wider palette such as red, cream, lynx (tabby) points, and tortie points. The tail is long and whippy, finished with a plume of fine hair that waves gracefully when the cat moves or holds its tail high.

Despite their glamorous appearance, the coat itself is relatively low maintenance. The Balinese has a single, semi‑long coat without a thick woolly undercoat. The fur lies close to the body and falls in soft, silky strands rather than forming bulky fluff. This means fewer tangles and a lower risk of mats compared with many longhaired breeds.

Care is straightforward if you keep a simple routine. Most Balinese cats benefit from a gentle brush or comb once or twice a week. A stainless steel comb or a soft slicker brush works well to remove loose hairs and keep the coat glossy. Many cats enjoy grooming sessions if they start young and if you keep them short and calm. During seasonal shedding, you can increase brushing to three or four times a week to cut down on loose hair around the home.

Regular grooming is also a chance to check ears, eyes, and teeth. Their large ears can sometimes collect dust or wax, so a quick visual check and occasional wipe with a vet approved ear cleaner can prevent problems. You should also keep an eye on the length of the nails, especially for indoor only Balinese, and trim them every few weeks as needed. Overall, the Balinese appearance is one of elegance and lightness, with a coat that looks luxurious yet is surprisingly practical for everyday life.

Temperament & Personality

The Balinese is a cat for people who truly enjoy sharing their home and daily routines with an animal companion. This is not a quiet, independent breed that is content to be left alone for long hours. Instead, Balinese cats tend to be outgoing, affectionate, and very chatty. They form strong bonds with their humans and often pick a favorite person who becomes their shadow.

In daily life, many owners describe their Balinese as a “velcro cat.” They follow you from the kitchen to the sofa and even to the bathroom, commenting on everything that happens. The voice is usually softer than the classic Siamese yowl, but still expressive and frequent. They like to “talk” to you when you come home, when you prepare food, and when you sit down to relax. For people who enjoy verbal interaction with their cats, this trait is charming. For those who prefer a quiet home, it can be challenging.

Balinese cats are intelligent problem solvers and have a wide range of playful behaviors. They enjoy interactive games that make use of their keen minds and agile bodies. Many learn to fetch small toys, chase wand teasers with great enthusiasm, and even open cupboard doors or figure out puzzle feeders. Their sociable nature means they often greet visitors and may quickly become the center of attention at gatherings.

With families, Balinese cats generally do well, especially if children are taught to respect the cat’s boundaries. They appreciate gentle play and usually enjoy being part of family activities rather than watching from a distance. Because they are active and curious, they often join in with games on the floor or follow children to see what they are doing. They are not typically lap cats in a sleepy, static way, but they do love physical closeness. Many will curl up beside you, lie across your keyboard, or sleep pressed against your pillow.

Balinese cats can coexist happily with other pets if introductions are done properly. Their social nature often means they enjoy the company of another active cat, especially another Balinese or Siamese type. They may also get along with cat friendly dogs, particularly if the dog is calm and respectful. However, their energy and need for attention can overwhelm more reserved cats. It is important to manage initial meetings and to provide enough resources, such as multiple resting spots and litter trays, so that every animal can relax.

Common challenges with this breed usually come from their need for attention and stimulation. A Balinese that is left alone for long hours, or that lives in a home with little interaction, may become bored and frustrated. This can lead to loud vocalizing, attention seeking behavior, or mischief such as knocking objects off shelves and exploring every cupboard. They are not destructive by nature, but they are inventive, and boredom is their enemy.

For the right person, the Balinese temperament is endlessly rewarding. They give back as much love and engagement as they receive, and often more. If you are looking for a quiet, ornamental cat, this is probably not the ideal match. If you want a lively, communicative companion who actively shares your life, the Balinese is an excellent choice.

Training & Exercise

Because the Balinese is both energetic and intelligent, training is not only possible but highly recommended. These cats thrive when given structured ways to use their brains and bodies. Instead of thinking of “training” as something formal or strict, it helps to view it as interactive play with clear communication. Balinese cats quickly learn to associate certain words, gestures, and routines with specific outcomes, which makes daily life smoother for everyone.

Positive reinforcement is the foundation of successful training with this breed. They respond very well to rewards such as tiny treats, verbal praise, and play with a favorite toy. Many owners teach simple cues like “come,” “sit,” or “up” using the same methods you would use with a dog. For example, you can hold a small treat above the cat’s head and slightly back, so they naturally sit while looking up. The moment they sit, you say “sit” and give the reward. Repeating this in short, fun sessions often leads to quick results.

Balinese cats often enjoy learning tricks such as high fives, spins, or jumping through a low hoop. Because of their flexible bodies and keen interest in interaction, clicker training can be especially effective. A clicker allows you to precisely mark the moment your cat does the correct behavior, followed by a reward. Over time, they begin to offer behaviors in the hope of earning a click and treat, which can be great mental exercise.

Providing enough physical exercise is just as important. While Balinese cats are not heavy or bulky, they are athletic and have a lot of pent up energy if kept indoors without stimulation. Good daily activities include:

• Two or three 10 to 15 minute sessions with a wand toy or feather teaser
• Interactive toys that move unpredictably, such as battery powered “prey”
• Short games of fetch with soft balls or crinkle toys
• Climbing and leaping on tall cat trees or wall shelves

Vertical space is particularly valuable for this breed. A tall, sturdy scratching post and a multi level cat tree allow your Balinese to run, leap, and survey their territory from on high. Many Balinese also enjoy running through tunnels, chasing balls along corridors, and playing hide and seek behind furniture.

Harness training is another area where the Balinese often shine. Their curiosity and confidence can make them good candidates for supervised outdoor walks in safe areas. Introducing a harness gradually, with lots of praise and treats, is important. Start indoors, letting the cat wear the harness for short periods, then add the lead, and only move outside once they are relaxed. Not every Balinese will enjoy outdoor walks, but for those that do, it can provide excellent enrichment.

Mental exercise should not be overlooked. Puzzle feeders, treat balls, and food hiding games tap into their problem solving skills. Rotating toys every few days helps prevent boredom. Some owners provide simple “jobs” such as searching for treats hidden around a room or learning to ring a small bell for a reward. These little tasks satisfy their natural curiosity and love of interaction.

One challenge is that a Balinese who is not given appropriate outlets for energy may create their own “games,” such as opening cupboards, jumping on counters, or chewing plants. Consistent training, along with environmental management, can steer their enthusiasm in better directions. Baby locks on cupboards, secure bins, and plenty of approved climbing and scratching places will help keep both your cat and your belongings safe.

Ultimately, training and exercise with a Balinese should feel enjoyable rather than demanding. Short, varied, playful sessions work best. With regular mental and physical activity, a Balinese is more relaxed, better behaved, and far less likely to develop undesirable habits. They thrive in homes where their natural talents are encouraged, not suppressed.

Health

The Balinese shares many health characteristics with its close relative, the Siamese, although careful breeding has helped reduce some concerns in modern lines. In general, Balinese cats are reasonably robust, with a typical lifespan in the range of 12 to 18 years when well cared for. Some individuals live into their early twenties. As with any breed, responsible breeding, routine veterinary care, and a healthy lifestyle are crucial.

There are a few health issues that prospective owners and breeders should be aware of. Respiratory and dental health deserve special attention. Some Balinese lines can be prone to periodontal disease, which means regular dental care is very important. Daily or frequent tooth brushing with a cat safe toothpaste is ideal, along with scheduled veterinary dental checks. Dental diets or dental treats can help, but they should never replace proper cleaning.

Inherited conditions sometimes seen in Siamese derived breeds can also appear in the Balinese. These may include certain eye conditions, such as progressive retinal atrophy in some lines, and structural issues like early onset arthritis in extreme body types. Ethical breeders work to avoid affected cats and will usually screen their breeding animals for known hereditary problems where tests are available. Prospective owners should feel comfortable asking breeders what health tests are performed and whether there is any history of genetic disease in the line.

Some Balinese may show sensitivity to anesthesia or certain medications, so it is essential that your vet knows the breed and your cat’s medical history. Regular checkups, ideally once a year for younger cats and twice a year for seniors, allow early detection of problems such as heart murmurs, kidney issues, or hyperthyroidism that can appear in later life. Routine blood work in mature cats can be an excellent way to catch subtle changes before they cause noticeable illness.

Although the Balinese coat is fine and lies close to the body, grooming related issues such as hairballs can still occur, especially during seasonal shedding. Providing a balanced diet with adequate moisture, along with hairball control food or malt paste if needed, can reduce problems. Some owners also introduce regular brushing as part of hairball prevention, so loose fur is removed before the cat swallows it during self grooming.

Obesity is a risk for any indoor cat, including active breeds like the Balinese, if food intake is not matched to activity levels. Because Balinese cats are naturally slim and elegant, extra weight is more noticeable and can place strain on joints and organs. Measured meals, avoiding constant free feeding, and using toys or puzzle feeders for a portion of the daily ration can help maintain a healthy weight. Your vet can advise on ideal body condition and appropriate calorie intake for your individual cat.

From a breeder’s perspective, recommended health practices often include:

• Breeding only from cats with clear, bright eyes and strong overall health
• Screening for hereditary conditions where tests exist and avoiding breeding affected animals
• Ensuring kittens receive full vaccination courses and early veterinary checks before going to new homes

For owners, a complete health plan for a Balinese typically includes vaccination, parasite control, neutering or spaying unless the cat is part of a breeding program, dental care, and regular monitoring of weight and behavior. Changes in appetite, thirst, energy, or toileting habits should always be investigated, as early treatment often leads to better outcomes.

With attentive care and an informed choice of breeder, many Balinese cats enjoy long, active, and affectionate lives. Their communicative nature also helps, as they often make it clear when something is wrong by changes in behavior or increased vocalization, giving observant owners a chance to seek help early.

History & Origins

The Balinese may look like an exotic cat from distant tropical islands, but its origins are more closely tied to the familiar Siamese. The breed developed from Siamese cats that carried a natural mutation for a longer coat. This semi‑longhaired trait occasionally appeared in Siamese litters and, for many years, such kittens were simply considered “longhaired Siamese” and often not used in breeding programs focused on short coats.

In the mid twentieth century, breeders in North America and elsewhere began to take a serious interest in these longhaired Siamese cats. They recognized that the combination of Siamese elegance, vivid blue eyes, and color points with a soft, flowing coat created a distinct and beautiful variety. Rather than viewing the longer hair as a fault, they saw it as the basis for a new breed. Careful selection followed, aiming to preserve the Siamese type while refining the coat and overall appearance.

The name “Balinese” was chosen not because the cats came from Bali, but as a romantic reference to the graceful movement of Balinese dancers. The cats’ plumed tails and fluid, athletic bodies evoked images of traditional dance, and the name captured their elegant, slightly exotic character. This imaginative choice helped distinguish them from their shorthaired cousins and gave the breed a unique identity in the cat fancy.

Over time, breed standards were developed by major cat registries. While details vary somewhat between organizations, the general aim has been to retain the Siamese body type and head style, with the addition of a medium length, fine, silky coat that lacks a heavy undercoat. Some registries group Balinese and related semi‑longhair varieties together, while others keep a separate classification. There has also been ongoing discussion about which colors and patterns to include, with a gradual broadening of accepted varieties in many associations.

Throughout its history, the Balinese has primarily been a companion and show cat rather than a working breed. Its temperament makes it particularly suited to life as a close housemate. While some cats historically served as mousers or temple guardians, the modern Balinese is mainly valued for its affectionate nature, intelligence, and strong connection with people. In the show ring, Balinese cats are judged on their elegance, coat quality, and color points, much like Siamese, but with attention to the distinct coat length and plumed tail.

The spread of the breed has been steady rather than explosive. Balinese cats are less common than Siamese in many regions, but they have a dedicated following of breeders and owners who appreciate their combination of beauty and personality. Ethical breeding programs focus on maintaining healthy lines, preserving the breed’s refined type, and avoiding extremes that might compromise welfare.

Today, the Balinese is recognized by major cat associations worldwide and appears in cat shows across Europe, North America, and beyond. While still somewhat rare compared with more mainstream breeds, its reputation as a loving, talkative, and easily trained companion continues to grow. Modern Balinese cats carry the legacy of the Siamese, wrapped in a softer, more flowing coat, and play an important role both in family homes and in the ongoing development of related oriental breeds.

Living with the Breed

Living with a Balinese is a joyful, engaging experience, but it does require a real commitment of time, attention, and resources. These cats do not simply exist in your home; they actively participate in your daily life. Before bringing one home, it is helpful to think about your routine, your environment, and what you hope for in a feline companion.

Balinese cats are best suited to households where people are around for much of the day. If everyone in the home works long hours outside, a Balinese may become lonely and bored. In such cases, some owners choose to adopt a pair of compatible cats so they can keep each other company. Even then, human interaction is still important. If you enjoy talking to your pets, involving them in your activities, and playing several times a day, a Balinese will likely fit well.

The financial commitment is similar to other purebred indoor cats, but the high energy level and intelligence of the Balinese can influence what you spend money on. Initial costs include the purchase price from a reputable breeder, vaccinations, neutering or spaying, microchipping, and basic equipment. Ongoing annual expenses typically include high quality food, regular veterinary checks, parasite prevention, insurance if available where you live, and replacement of toys and scratching posts. Many owners also budget for professional dental cleanings in later years.

Useful equipment for a Balinese household includes:

• A tall, stable cat tree with multiple platforms and hiding spots
• Several sturdy scratching posts positioned in key areas
• A variety of interactive toys, such as wand teasers, balls, tunnels, and puzzle feeders
• Comfortable beds or blankets placed near where you spend time, as they love being close to you
• At least one litter tray per cat, plus one extra, placed in quiet but accessible locations

Because Balinese cats are agile climbers and jumpers, it is wise to cat proof your home. Secure fragile items on high shelves, use heavy bases for lamps, and consider child locks for cupboards that contain cleaning products or food. Many Balinese quickly learn to open simple cabinet doors and to explore interesting spaces. Window safety is also crucial. Secure screens or restrictor devices can prevent accidental falls, especially in multi storey homes.

Grooming needs are moderate but still require a regular routine. Aim for a weekly brushing session, increasing frequency during heavy shedding periods. Most Balinese enjoy the attention once they are used to it, and many happily stretch out on a lap during grooming. Starting gentle handling as a kitten, including touching paws, ears, and mouth, will make nail trimming and health checks much easier later on.

Emotionally, living with a Balinese means sharing your space with a very present personality. They will likely join you on the sofa, investigate your cooking, sit on your paperwork, and offer opinions on phone calls. Some people find this constant involvement deeply rewarding, while others may feel it is too intense. Honest self reflection about your tolerance for noise, activity, and closeness is essential before choosing this breed.

Travel and holidays require planning. Because Balinese cats are attached to their people, they often do better with a trusted pet sitter who visits or stays in your home, rather than being moved to a busy boarding cattery. If you travel frequently, think in advance about who can provide consistent care and attention that matches their usual routine.

In return for this commitment, Balinese cats offer a great deal. They are affectionate without being passive, smart without being aloof, and playful well into adulthood. Many owners describe them as “little people in cat suits” because of their expressive faces and clear preferences. If you provide mental stimulation, regular play, good veterinary care, and plenty of love, a Balinese can be a deeply rewarding companion, brightening your home with energy, conversation, and elegant beauty for many years.

Characteristics

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Balinese cat and how is it different from a Siamese?

It is essentially a longhaired variety of the Siamese, with the same slender body, wedge-shaped head, and striking blue eyes. The main difference is the semi-long, silky coat and plumed tail, along with a slightly softer overall look. Personality is very similar, with a talkative, people-focused nature.

Are Balinese cats really hypoallergenic?

They are often described as more tolerable for some allergy sufferers, possibly because they produce slightly lower levels of certain allergens and have a fine, single coat that sheds less. However, they are not truly hypoallergenic and can still trigger reactions. Meeting individual cats before adoption is important for anyone with allergies.

What is the typical temperament of a Balinese cat?

They are highly social, vocal, and intelligent, and tend to form strong bonds with their humans. Many follow their owners from room to room and like to be involved in daily activities. They often enjoy interactive play and can be sensitive to being left alone for long periods.

How much grooming does a Balinese cat need with that long coat?

Despite the length, the coat is fine and lacks a dense undercoat, so it usually resists matting. Brushing a couple of times per week is typically enough to control loose hair and reduce shedding. During seasonal shedding periods, more frequent brushing can help keep the coat in good condition.

Do Balinese cats have specific health issues I should know about?

They can inherit some of the same conditions seen in Siamese, including dental disease, certain heart problems, and eye issues like progressive retinal atrophy in some lines. Responsible breeders screen for these risks and monitor for breathing or structural problems associated with extreme head shapes. Regular veterinary checkups and dental care are especially important.

Are Balinese cats good for families with children or other pets?

They usually adapt well to active households and often enjoy playing with respectful children. Many get along with other friendly cats and even cat-tolerant dogs, as they like companionship and interaction. Slow introductions and supervision at first help ensure a smooth adjustment.

How active are Balinese cats and what kind of exercise do they need?

They are quite energetic and curious, and they benefit from daily interactive play sessions. Puzzle toys, climbing trees, and regular play with wands or balls help keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Without enough engagement, they may become bored and vocal or mischievous.

Why do Balinese cats talk so much, and can you train them to be quieter?

They are naturally vocal and use a variety of sounds to communicate with their owners, similar to Siamese but sometimes a bit softer in tone. While you cannot change the basic tendency to talk, you can reduce excessive meowing by providing routine, play, and avoiding reinforcing attention-seeking noise. Rewarding calm behavior and maintaining a predictable schedule often helps.

What kind of home environment suits a Balinese cat best?

They do best in homes where people are around much of the day or where there is another compatible pet for company. A stimulating indoor environment with vertical space, window views, and interactive play is ideal. They are typically not suited to being left alone for long stretches with little human contact.

How big do Balinese cats get and when do they stop growing?

They are generally medium sized, with a long, fine-boned body that often makes them look lighter than they actually are. Most reach their adult size by around 12 months, though they may continue to fill out and develop coat length and plume for another year. Maintaining a lean, muscular build is important for their overall health.

Sources

• Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF)
• Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe)
• The Cat Fanciers' Association, Inc. (CFA)
• British Veterinary Association (BVA)
• The Cats Protection