The Siamese Cat breed is sweet, talkative, intelligent, and a pleasure to own. Siamese cats are also famous for their distinctive coloring. In fact, there are 32 known color combinations for the Siamese cat.
Many Siamese cat owners wonder what determines the color of this cat breed. How do Siamese kittens get their color? Do their colors change? When do Siamese kittens get their color? These are questions that many Siamese cat owners ask regularly. Siamese kittens get their coat color from the Himalayan gene they have. We’ve got you covered and will answer these questions and more below.
How Do Siamese Kittens Get Their Color?
The Siamese breed has a gene that causes the colors you find them in. The gene is called the Himalayan gene, and it causes something called temperature-reactive albinism. This changes the color of the kitten based on its local body temperature.
The fur in the cooler parts of the kitten’s body will be darker than the fur in the warmer regions. The darker parts are called color points and include lynx points, seal points, chocolate points, apricot points, cinnamon points, and more.
Image Credit: ADA_photo, Shutterstock
When Do Siamese Kittens Get Their Color?
All Siamese are born with a white color because they’ve just spent 9 weeks in a warm womb. You should see your kitten’s white color gradually begin to change at about a week old. You’ll also start to notice dark points on certain areas of their fur at this time.
This is because their body temperature starts to drop, allowing color changes to occur. This is also when you’ll begin to see color points on the cat’s legs, face, tail, and ears.
What Are the Siamese Point Colors?
As previously stated, your furry friend’s points will become darker as the temperature gets hotter. This color is determined by genetics and can result in four natural shades. These are chocolate, blue, seal, and lilac point.
There are also point colors that have been developed in specific breeding programs. These can include cinnamon, fawn, lynx, caramel, Tabby, white, red, Tortie, and apricot.
Image Credit: Linn Currie, Shutterstock
What Are Some Other Causes of Color Changes?
Genetics and a unique gene aren’t the only things that lead to color changes in the Siamese Cat breed.
1. Seasonal Changes
Siamese cats’ colors change with the seasons as well. If you live in a hot climate, you may notice that your furry friend’s fur is a lighter shade when it sheds its winter coat for the spring. Once the fall season arrives and your cat grows its winter coat, the fur will be a darker color. All these factors lead us to believe that the seasons play a part in the shade of a Siamese’s fur.
2. Other Reasons for Color Changes
There are a few other causes of color changing in your Siamese.
Diet deficiencies
The effects of the sun
Certain health conditions
Old age
A rise in body temperature
If you think your Siamese cat is changing colors abnormally, it’s best to make an appointment with your vet for diagnosis and treatment. Though they change color with the seasons, certain health conditions and diet problems will cause the same reaction, which could be dangerous to your feline.
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Is It Possible for a Siamese Cat to be Black?
A Siamese cat is technically considered to be a black cat. The Himalayan gene prevents melatonin from circulating through the cat, which is why it develops seal points on its body instead of a solid black coat.
Are All Siamese Cat Colors Recognized?
While there are over 32 color variations in the Siamese Cat breed, not all of them are CFA recognized. Here is a list of the most common color variations and whether they are CFA recognized below.
Blue Point: light grey to slate blue: Yes
Lilac Point: light lilac with pink undertones: Yes
Seal Point: Light brown to black: Yes
Chocolate Point: Very dark brown with black points: Yes
Fawn Point: Pale brown with hints of pink: No
Caramel Point: Creamy brown with dark pinkish-grey: No
Cinnamon Point: Warm orangish brown: No
Flame Point: Slight orange to Tabby-like: No
Tortie Point: Bi-color with various patterns: No
Apricot Point: Very pale orange: No
Cream Point: Pale orange: No
Image Credit: Yulia Kostyushina, Shutterstock
Are Blue Eyes the Norm for Siamese Cats?
Yes, blue eyes are the norm for this cat breed and are one of the breed’s most striking features. Most cats have blue eyes when they are born; then, the eyes change as the kittens reach adulthood. The gene that accounts for their color also makes it possible for their eyes to stay blue, making them even more stunning, in our opinion.
With their blue eyes, striking features, and different color combinations, it’s no wonder this cat is such a popular cat breed.
Final Thoughts
Siamese kittens are born white. You’ll start to see changes in their color after they are a week old. There are a few factors that contribute to the color changes that you see in your furry friend, from the seasons to the effects of the sun. Remember, if the color changes seem abnormal, it’s best to contact your vet.
If you’re considering purchasing or adopting a Siamese cat, make sure you’re ready to care for a remarkably talkative feline. If you’re ready for that responsibility, giving a Siamese kitten a forever home will reward you with love and companionship for many years.
Patricia is a pet writer and lifelong animal lover. She has two cats (Binx and Link) and one dog (Mystery). Binx was found as a kitten under her house and has been part of the family ever since! Patricia is also a published author under the pen name Skylar McKinzie. When she isn’t writing, Patricia enjoys volunteering at her local animal rescue.
