History of the breed
The Siamese cat is one of the oldest breeds.
Its homeland is Thailand, formerly Siam. Many myths are associated with it. For example, the tail hall, now considered a defect, is explained by the fact that the princess put her rings on her pet’s tail when bathing, but one day she lost the jewel entrusted to her. Then the cunning cat asked Buddha for help, and he bent the tip of her tail so that the rings could no longer slip off. As follows from the legend, Siamese were kept by high-ranking persons. Naturally, the attitude towards pets was appropriate. They were pampered; none of the courtiers could even lay a finger on the kitten, much less hit or shout at it. The animals were fed almost from the table. Naturally, over many centuries this breed has developed a special, proud character.
- At the same time, in character these cats are sometimes more reminiscent of dogs due to their strong devotion to their owners.
- They are extremely sociable, inquisitive, emotional;
- They have a loud melodic voice;
- Ready to follow people around in order to constantly be in their company.
- Easy to learn;
- Affectionate, tolerant of children and other animals, but prone to jealousy.
For those who are ready to share all their free and not so much time with a pet, the Siamese cat is the ideal choice. Another important point: this breed is characterized by early puberty; there are often three or more cubs in a litter, so when buying a Siamese kitten, get ready to receive grandchildren in almost a year.
Siamese cats are one of the oldest breeds of the Siamese-Oriental group, which was bred in Siam.
Siamese cats are very jealous. They are the center of attention. Therefore, they do not always get along with other pets (cats, dogs) and do not get along well with children.
Siamese cats cannot tolerate prolonged separation from their owners. Leave the house for a long time, provide your pet with toys so that the cat does not get bored in your absence.
It is believed that Siamese are very picky eaters. In some ways this is true. Siamese are great gourmets and may show interest in foods that cats might not expect. For example, your pet can eat seeds, nuts, mushrooms, and fruits. In general, there are no problems, but still, do not forget that not all the products and treats that we offer to the fluffy are good for his health and, in particular, digestion.
Mixed cats
Despite the fact that kittens from representatives of various breeds can be bright, graceful and funny, mixed breeds will never become the owners of a pedigree and will not take first places at exhibitions.
Mixed-breed cat - what is it? The answer to this question is known to every breeder, who mercilessly cull kittens born from different breeds. But many modern breeds appeared through random crossing. This is how the Broomilla breed arose from a Persian father and a Bruma mother. The first offspring was not considered a breed, but thanks to the work of the breeder, who continued to work on improving the new species, the Broomilla was recognized and included in the International Register of Pedigree Cats.
Natural products
In order for a Siamese cat to fully grow and develop, it is important for her to receive a varied diet. To build a diet for your pet, it is important to form his taste preferences from a very early age.
For kittens
Kittens' diet usually consists of milk. Therefore, it is especially important during this period to monitor the cub’s stool: if it is frequent and too liquid, the cat will need additional supplementation, since otherwise the body is at risk of dehydration. In addition, it would be a good idea to add water to the milk itself to reduce the concentration of acids that irritate the kitten’s delicate stomach. Starting from 1.5 months, you can gradually introduce natural products into the diet, minced in a meat grinder or cut into very small pieces. An approximate menu for Siamese kittens per 1 kg of weight should look like this:
- 1 feeding: 30 g of boiled sea fish, 5 g of boiled beef, 4 g of wheat cereal, 5 g of water.
- 2 feeding: 25 g beef, 10 g boiled liver, 5 g oatmeal, 10 g water;
- 3 feeding: 20 g of raw rabbit meat, 10 g of yolk, 5 g of oatmeal, steamed with 10 g of water.
For adult cats
Siamese cats are quite healthy, however, it is very important to monitor their diet and give them only the right food. Of the natural products, special attention should be paid to several.
- Meat. Only lean product should be used. Suitable for animals is the muscular part of veal, chicken, rabbit and turkey. Before offering it to your cat, it should be scalded or boiled and then cut into small pieces. If animals are fed raw meat, it must be thawed. Typically, meat pieces are cut and frozen in portions, defrosting immediately before feeding. Meat products should make up 2/3 of the animal's total diet.
- By-products are a very useful component of the cat's menu. The best options for Siamese are liver, heart, udder, and also lung. Keep in mind that not all cats like these foods, so offer your pet each of them in turn: then the cat will be able to choose the ones she likes.
- Fish. This food is dearly loved by cats, but still you should not abuse it. The product is included in the diet no more than 2 times a week, replacing meat. It is best to offer your pet low-fat sea white fish, such as cod, flounder, navaga and tuna.
- Eggs. Males are offered only the yolk, exclusively boiled, no more than once a week. This is a very good source of nutrients for the animal.
- Cereals. Cats love boiled cereals; preference should be given to rice, barley and oatmeal. Porridge is cooked in water without the use of oil, milk or spices.
- Vegetables. In small doses, chopped carrots, fresh cucumbers and sprouted greens can be added to the main food. It is very important not to overdo it, since cats of this breed are not able to digest fiber.
- Dairy products. There is an opinion that cats love milk. In fact, this product is only suitable for kittens up to 2 months of age. Later, the body stops producing enzymes responsible for its absorption. This can lead to pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. Low-fat cottage cheese, fermented baked milk, sour cream, yogurt without additives and a small amount of butter will only benefit your cat.
Features of feeding Siamese
Siamese are quite gentle creatures in everything, both in behavior and feeding. It is very important for them to receive a balanced, nutritious diet. The food consumed should be rich in amino acids, since these components are extremely important for the normal growth of hair, claws and skin renewal. However, the Siamese’s own body does not produce them; they can be obtained exclusively from food.
In addition, purebred representatives are susceptible to alopecia (baldness due to stressful situations), so it is equally important for them to receive sufficient fatty acids along with food.
The Siamese cat breed is distinguished by narrow and slightly elongated jaws. Veterinarians often diagnose them with gingivitis, tartar, and periodontal disease. Taking this into account, animals must be given dry food, even if their diet is based on natural products.
Siamese are at risk for urolithiasis. Therefore, foods such as milk and fish should be limited in their diet.
External characteristics
The most striking distinctive feature of the Siamese is the dark pigmentation of the paws, tail and “mask” on the face (acromelanic color) and blue eyes.
- The coat is short and shiny.
- An integral feature of these cats is elegance and grace.
- Marking colors range from black and chocolate to blue and purple. In cold climates their color is richer.
- All kittens are born white and begin to darken at 2-3 weeks, acquiring their final color by the age of one year.
It is difficult to confuse a Siamese cat with another breed. A similar color is practically not found in nature.
When choosing food for your pet or pet, be selective. In this breed, if the diet is incorrect, some quite characteristic diseases or consequences are possible.
Care and maintenance
The cost of caring for and maintaining a Siamese cat is lower than that of long-haired breeds. The breed is characterized by scanty shedding, so 1-2 brushings per week are sufficient throughout the year. Dead hairs can be removed with a special wool cleaning mitt. Frequent washing breaks the fat barrier and provokes the development of dermatological diseases. The pet can be washed only after dusty repairs or a walk in rainy weather.
Due to the lack of undercoat, it is not recommended to walk the animal in cold weather. If your cat asks to go outside, try to distract it with toys. To keep her comfortably, she will need a multi-level scratching post house. A large number of obstacles keeps the animal active and distracts from loneliness during hours of absence of the owners. Thanks to their developed intelligence, Siamese cats love interactive toys. You can buy them in a store or make them yourself.
In addition to the coat, do not forget to monitor the condition of the ears, eyes and teeth. Discharge from the eyes should be cleaned daily, earwax should be cleaned weekly, and for oral care it is enough to use toothpaste once a month. If you notice sticky eyelids, dark spots inside the ear, plaque or an unpleasant odor from the mouth, contact your veterinarian.
What to give to pregnant and lactating cats?
You should not feed your cat a lot of fish in any form, as there may be consequences for its body in the form of allergies! Pay attention and be careful!
Do not feed her frozen fish, as, after a certain period of time, it can cause severe allergies with swelling of the muzzle on the eyebrows, under the jaw (this threatens the respiratory tract) and the formation of oozing ulcers! If this suddenly happens, immediately give the cat some sorbent (as for a person, only proportioning the dose relative to body weight) or an allergy medicine and immediately contact a veterinarian!
The same recommendations apply to any citrus fruit, for example, fish topped with lemon sauce. Your cat will beg for it persistently, but don't risk giving it. Although, if the child really asks, you can sometimes spoil him with boiled fish just for yourself. These capricious creatures are very fond of fried river fish, they are also partial to salted ram, but they don’t wash it down with beer, so make sure there is plenty of water and get ready to clean the toilet.
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Choosing food for an adult cat is not difficult, but it is not that simple either. You can use regular dry food, gradually trying and choosing what your pet likes, or ready-made “wet” food. You will understand which one suits her best within a few days or a maximum of a week, primarily by looking at the toilet.
- She will eat cheap “wet” food with a diminishing appetite; they are fraught with loose stools or vomiting.
- She simply won’t eat cheap dry food.
- The best choice is dry food at a price slightly above average (don’t let this scare you, a cat weighing about three kilograms eats a pack of 500 grams for 250 rubles in seven to ten days), but you reduce the risk of urolithiasis, the main thing is to ensure free access to water .
- Of course, you can sometimes diversify the diet with “wet” food from reputable manufacturers, no more than once a day, a little raw meat (beef, chicken), your cat will only be happy.
- Don’t be surprised if your little angel chompingly eats persimmons and chocolates, gnaws on popcorn, just don’t overdo it with them and let’s drink water.
- You can also pamper your cat with shrimp without sauces, boiled of course, for them she will be ready to go to the ends of the earth and eat as much as she can and then some.
- Despite the general myth, they are very selective when it comes to dairy products and will not consume everything in a row. They drink a little milk, they prefer sour cream, but if they don’t eat it, rest assured, it contains starch. Hard and processed cheese is eaten “according to the mood,” rather because you eat it. Siamese cats sometimes copy the culinary preferences of their owners.
- Also, no one has canceled young oat sprouts and vitamins, at least one a day, it is good for health in general and for digestion in particular, it has a good effect on the coat (smooth and silky, with a healthy shine that any girl will envy).
In general, it is not difficult to provide a healthy, balanced diet for your Siamese cat if you remember these basic rules, and your pets will delight you with affection and play.
Many breeders prefer to use ready-made food. They become a real salvation if the cat refuses to accept natural products and turns up its nose at the food offered to it. In addition, such food is suitable for busy people and for beginners who have no experience with the Siamese breed. It is better to give preference to expensive foods: they have a balanced composition, contain an optimal ratio of dietary fat, and include all the necessary vitamins and microelements important for the health of cats. They are usually sold in a specialty store. The most popular formulations among breeders are Purina Pro Plan and Hills.
Experienced breeders prefer natural food ROYAL CANIN. It contains 38% protein and about 16% fat, the product is enriched with L-carnitine, which promotes better digestion of the product. Manufacturers of such food offer several product lines: for kittens, for older cats, for nursing cats, and also for cats after castration.
As soon as the owner realizes that his Siamese cat is waiting for a replenishment, she is transferred to a specialized diet, enriched with calcium and proteins in an optimal ratio for the expectant mother. When feeding an animal with natural products, increase the proportion of proteins, as well as products containing carbohydrates. Treats and all kinds of delicacies, on the contrary, are limiting. Feed a pregnant cat at least 3 times a day.
Starting from the 4th week of pregnancy, the cat requires food containing quite a lot of protein, and from the middle of the pregnancy the volume of food is increased by 1.5 times. At the same time, you should monitor your pet’s weight gain, as obesity is fraught with complications during childbirth. 1.5–2 weeks before delivery, the animal’s appetite begins to decrease due to the pressure that the kittens exert on its abdominal cavity. During this period, the cat should be fed often, but in small portions.
During lactation, a new mother requires foods rich in carbohydrates: the need for calories increases 2–3 times. If the cat is fed ready-made formulas, then usually no problems arise. By the way, during this period you can offer her food for kittens: they contain all the beneficial substances necessary for the animal.
At this time, it is forbidden to limit the animal’s food: she must eat as much as she wants. Rest assured: when feeding 4 or more kittens, the cat will not be at risk of obesity.
The older a cat gets, the more difficult it becomes for her body to digest macronutrients and vitamins. Most of the nutrients are simply excreted from the body. That is why most reputable manufacturers produce a special line of food for older cats and kittens.
For example, excess calcium leads to the formation of kidney stones, and a lack of vitamins A, E and B accelerates the natural aging process.
Many breeders note that during this period cats begin to eat less, and attribute this to age. In fact, the reason is completely different: most often, older Siamese suffer from dental diseases, and eating solid food is simply painful for them. If you identify the problem in time and treat your pet, then there is a chance to save the teeth. But if the enamel is completely rotten, then the teeth have to be removed.
After such an intervention, the cat can only bite off pieces, but is no longer able to chew food. This feature also needs to be taken into account when feeding adult pets: they are offered pates, grated and blended products. As an animal ages, various diseases make themselves felt, so if there is any change in the animal’s behavior, you should contact a veterinarian in order to, together with the doctor, develop an optimal diet for your pet.
The diet of a Siamese kitten must be balanced in minerals, vitamins, amino acids, and other beneficial substances that are needed for growth, development and health. What to feed a Siamese kitten so as not to harm the furry pet.
Natural diet
The composition of products for the Siamese cat, given its picky eating habits, is selected by the owners individually. This type of food can be called the most varied and healthy for a furry pet.
Natural benefits:
- The owner has full control over the quality of products and prepared food.
- The Siamese receives a varied and most importantly healthy menu.
- You can choose the diet of their products that your cat likes most.
- The diet can be adjusted at any time if necessary.
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After weaning from the cat, Siamese kittens can be immediately transferred to a natural diet, gradually adding new food products to the menu. When introducing new products, monitor the stool and condition of your furry pet.
Products for a natural diet:
- Meat. Siamese, like any other breed of cat, are predators. Therefore, the basis of the diet should be meat products. They contain protein, essential amino acids (not produced by the body), macro-microelements, and dietary fiber. The diet of a Siamese kitten should include raw or lightly fried minced meat from veal, lamb, poultry, and lean meat (veal, beef, rabbit, chicken, turkey). Meat products are given raw, after having been doused with boiling water, in boiled, baked, stewed form.
- Offal. Chicken stomachs, liver, kidneys, lungs of farm animals, veal liver, tongue can also be included in the diet of a Siamese kitten, starting from 5-6 months of age. By-products, unlike natural meat, have lower nutritional value and calorie content, so increase the portion by about one and a half times. Offal is given to Siamese no more than three times every 8-10 days.
- Fermented milk, dairy products. Contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, healthy fatty acids, and other components for the growth and development of the kitten. A Siamese kitten is given milk every other day. Kittens are fed natural yoghurt without fruit additives, fillers, kefir, sour cream, fermented baked milk, skim milk, and calcined cottage cheese. Natural whole milk can be given to Siamese up to 4-4.5 months and only if this product does not cause intestinal upset. As you grow older, the production of enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract responsible for the absorption of lactose decreases, so whole milk often becomes the cause of profuse diarrhea. Siamese kittens are best given goat's milk rather than cow's milk.
- Chicken and quail eggs. Once a week, treat the kitten to one boiled yolk or give two or three quail eggs. Give your Siamese egg white only when he has diarrhea, as it is poorly absorbed by the kitten’s digestive tract. Raw eggs are also beneficial for Siamese kittens. But give them only if you are sure of their freshness and quality.
- Cereals, cereals. Porridge supplements the pet's diet with healthy carbohydrates, so in small quantities (30-35% of the total diet) they should be present in the natural menu of a Siamese kitten. For kittens, rice, buckwheat, wheat, and oatmeal are cooked in milk, water, and low-fat broths. You can cook a mix of two or three cereals. To make the finished dish more nutritious, add raw minced meat, scraped meat, finely chopped or grated vegetables, and herbs.
- Fish, seafood. Siamese kittens are given only boiled, low-fat varieties of oceanic, sea and freshwater fish. Before serving, the carcass is well pitted. Raw fish, especially freshwater fish, is prohibited. It contains helminths and other dangerous parasites, and not all parts of the carcass can be digested by the kitten’s gastrointestinal tract. Fish in the Siamese's diet should include tuna, salmon, hake, pollock, and capelin. Kittens are fed fish no more than once every 5-6 days. Treat your fluffy one to seafood once a week.
- Vegetables fruits. Greenery. Vegetables (carrots, beets, zucchini, broccoli, pumpkin) contain fiber, plant fibers, vitamins, and organic compounds. Vegetables are given to the Siamese kitten in raw, boiled, or stewed form. Before serving, they are finely chopped with a knife or grated. For better absorption of nutrients, season raw vegetable stew with a few drops of any vegetable oil. Greens are good for Siamese. Buy cat grass, oats, and wheat seeds from a veterinary pharmacy and germinate them at home in containers. Greens and herbs not only saturate the body with vitamins and beneficial organic compounds, but also help cleanse the stomach of hairballs.
Choosing a diet for a kitten
The diet of a Siamese kitten can consist only of industrially produced food or natural products.
Mixed feeding
This type involves feeding alternately natural products and prepared foods. This type of nutrition is extremely undesirable for growing kittens.
Mixed feeding only harms the animal’s digestive system, which has not yet fully developed.
Up to 5 months, the kitten’s gastrointestinal tract cannot properly process food with different composition and consistency.
Therefore, a mixed diet is a quick way to provoke dysbiosis and a number of abnormalities in the digestive system in your pet.
No matter how attractive this type of feeding may seem to the owner, it is not suitable for Siamese kittens.
Natural food
The kitten's diet can consist entirely of natural products. This method of feeding a pet has both advantages and disadvantages.
Natural food is considered as natural as possible for animals. In addition, such a diet will cost the owner much less than industrial products.
- You will have to spend time preparing new dishes every day.
- It is not possible to leave your pet alone at home for a long time, because... natural food left in a bowl will quickly disappear.
- Due to the pickiness of the Siamese, it is difficult to choose foods that every kitten will like.
Having weighed all the advantages and disadvantages of natural nutrition and decided to opt for it, you need to know what products the daily menu should consist of. It includes:
- Meat products. For Siamese kittens, only lean varieties are suitable - rabbit and chicken, beef and lamb, turkey. The meat must first be frozen, before serving, defrost to room temperature and scald with boiling water. This will help kill any parasites that may be in it. In the daily diet, the meat part should make up 2/3 of the total food.
- Offal: liver, udder, heart, beef stomach is suitable. They are served only boiled.
- Fish. You can only give marine lean fish. It must be boiled and all the bones removed. Serve no more than 2-3 times a week in small portions.
- Eggs. Kittens are allowed to include only boiled yolk in their diet.
- Cereals: oatmeal, barley, rice. It is necessary to cook porridge with water without adding salt or sugar.
- Vegetables: potatoes, cabbage and zucchini, carrots, cucumbers. The peculiarity of the Siamese breed is that their digestive system does not tolerate fiber well, so you cannot abuse the amount of vegetables and the frequency of their consumption.
- Dairy and fermented milk products. They should have minimal or medium fat content. Ryazhenka and sour cream, yogurt, butter, cottage cheese are suitable for kittens.
You can start complementary feeding with natural products from 2 months. When kittens continue to feed on mother's milk, they can be given a small amount of other food once every few days.
When introducing a new product, you need to carefully monitor your pet's condition, promptly identifying a possible allergic reaction.
Dry food diet
Owners most often choose ready-made food for feeding their pets.
This type of diet has many advantages:
- Saving time, because no need to cook food.
- First of all, this is convenience, because the food can be left in the bowl for a long time, it will not deteriorate or lose its qualities. Thanks to this, you can leave the kitten at home alone for a long time without worrying that he will be hungry.
- The products contain all the vitamins and minerals necessary for the full development of a growing organism. This means that there is no need to provide additional vitamin supplements, which are a prerequisite for natural nutrition.
The only drawback of dry food is its price. Kittens need to choose only high-quality food from the holistic or super premium category, but their cost is high.
Dry food should be introduced into a kitten’s diet correctly and gradually, because... In this form, it is poorly absorbed by a weak stomach; part of it remains in it and begins to ferment. Because of this, harmful bacteria are produced, displacing the natural microflora.
What Siamese don't eat
- For example, your Siamese cat will not eat soup or borscht, or thick stuff made from them. She will not take potatoes, vegetables, small pieces of fish or meat out of the bowl, unless you decide to take it on her character, then she will wait until all the liquid has evaporated and maybe eat, but this is unlikely.
- Also, these cats do not understand the usual boiled porridge made from small cereals mixed with boiled “cat sprat”. In this case, be prepared to boycott the plate or have it pick out particularly large pieces of fish. Keep in mind that these cats are quite characteristic and, boycotting the plate, can go without eating for two or three days!
Choosing a kitten class
The division of cats into classes was invented by breeders in order to better understand their physiological quality in the future. This classification is informal. Kittens are placed into classes immediately after birth. Babies from the same litter can belong to different classes, and subsequently the class of each of them can also change. There are 3 classes - show, breed and pet.
Show class animals are the best representatives of cats, they fully comply with all the characteristics of the breed and have excellent exhibition prospects. These kittens are the standard of the breed. They can be sold in co-ownership or with certain conditions; finding them is a great success. The price of such an animal will be the highest of all classes.
The main purpose of the breeding class is childbearing and breeding. They are great for breeding. Cats in this class have good pedigree and reproductive traits. With the right approach to care and breeding, breed-class animals can produce show-class kittens. Breed class cats can also participate in exhibitions and receive titles, but this happens less often. They are not much cheaper than show class cats, but among them you can find a show class kitten in which all its advantages have simply not been considered.
Pet class kittens are not of exhibition or breeding interest to the breeder. They may have some defects that distinguish them from breed standards, but do not affect the health of the animal. Such cats are usually bought for the soul. These are affectionate pets that match the character of the breed. Kittens are sold only if sterilized. This is also indicated in the documents.
Nutrition for castrated and sterilized animals
The next question to consider is what to feed your Siamese cats. The first and main requirement is the constant support of a variety of food for the Siamese cat. Another unspoken rule is to make sure that your cat always has fresh water, because they drink often and a lot. Food should be rich in protein.
Especially if it is feeding Siamese kittens. From meat you can give lamb, poultry, rabbit. Siamese cats are excellent with fish, especially tuna and cod. Cottage cheese and cottage cheese will also be useful. Egg yolk is rich in essential vitamins. Don't forget about the benefits of dry food. It is always made high in calories and rich in vitamins.
There is food separately for kittens and separately for adult cats. It differs in its composition and amount of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Siamese kittens should be fed frequently at an early age - up to six times a day. With age, the number of feedings gradually decreases to two, or even once a day.
Buy a Siamese cat
It is very important to monitor the condition of spayed and neutered animals immediately after surgery. If it strains during defecation, the stitches will come apart, which leads to a deterioration in the cat’s condition until its death. To avoid such adverse consequences, it is better to give preference to exclusively tender foods for the first 4–5 days after surgery. During this period, males and females can be offered:
- sugar-free baby formulas;
- natural yoghurts, fermented baked milk or yogurt;
- pureed boiled egg;
- meat broths prepared without salt;
- specialized dry food for operated animals.
After 2 weeks, the cat is considered to have already regained its physical shape, and the animal can be returned to its usual diet. Please note that after castration, cats often develop obesity due to changes in hormonal levels in the body. These pets require proper nutrition, which includes:
- turkey, rabbit and chicken;
- corn, wheat cereals.
Once a week you can offer your pet offal. In addition, it is very important to include fresh, juicy greens in the menu. If the cat is on a self-walk, then most likely he will find tasty grass for himself. But if the animal is kept at home, add sprouted oats, barley, and millet to its meat at least 2 times a week. It would also be a good idea to offer him grated cucumber and fried cabbage leaves along with the meat.
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Feeding prepared food
When Siamese refuse ready-made food or eat food without much appetite, it is better to reconsider the cat's diet. Perhaps the animal’s stomach does not accept boiled food or the smell of the food is not the same. Some people believe that the pet is mischievous, so they continue to feed it what it does not eat. This method is not a way out of the situation, but rather a move towards a dead end. Just as people don’t like something, so do animals, but they just can’t say it.
Siamese cats eat dry food and canned food with pleasure. Manufacturers of super premium food make it balanced and nutritious. This also eliminates the need to purchase vitamins and minerals to compensate for their deficiency in the body. It is advisable to make purchases in special stores or on online sites that have been selling feed for a long time. In this case, you can be sure of the quality of the product.
When thinking about which food to give preference, you should pay attention to the following nuances:
- pet's age;
- his taste preferences (products have a different smell);
- Lifestyle;
- physiological characteristics.
Ready-made food can be dry or wet. Which one to buy is up to the owner to decide. Young animals usually crunch on crackers with pleasure; representatives of the older generation find it more difficult to cope with solid food, so they gobble up pates. If you take super-premium class products, then in principle it doesn’t matter what to give preference to, because excellent composition can be observed in every product. Another thing is what is suitable for a four-legged animal.
You cannot mix wet food and dry food, because this can lead to gastrointestinal diseases.
Particular attention is paid not only to the food, but also to the dishes in which it is served. So, dry food is much more convenient to eat from a flat plate with rounded sides. For pate, on the contrary, it is better to choose a deep bowl. Siamese cats are one of the cleanest cats, so you shouldn’t be surprised if they won’t eat their favorite treat from a dirty bowl. When getting an animal, you should take care of it, and this applies not only to brushing or feeding, but also to the cleanliness of the dishes, as well as the place where the cat eats food.
What should you not give?
When choosing products to feed Siamese cats, you need to be as demanding as possible.
Siamese are prone to various diseases, most of which are the result of improper feeding.
- It is strictly not recommended to overfeed your cat with fish, since over time the animal develops an allergy, causing swelling on the face in the area of the eyebrows and under the jaw. This can lead to difficulty breathing and a general deterioration in the animal’s condition. If this happens, be sure to give the animal a sorbent and an antihistamine, and then immediately contact a veterinarian.
- The same advice applies to any citrus fruit. For example, you should not offer your animal meat with orange sauce from your table. Your pet will definitely beg for it, but show restraint and don’t give it.
About the diet of Siamese cats, see below.
Mixed food for Siamese cats
Veterinarians and breeders say that it is better to forget about mixed food for cats. The gastrointestinal tract must be accustomed from a young age to the food that the animal will consume in the future. If you feed either wet food, table food, or dry food, your pet may develop gastritis or another health problem. Initially, you should decide what to feed the Siamese kitten, understand that he liked the diet, and then stick to only this diet.
Choosing a place and dishes
For a comfortable life, a Siamese kitten needs to arrange a place to rest and sleep, purchase various toys, preferably interactive ones, and grooming and hygiene products (brushes, shampoos, sprays).
Set up a place where your Siamese kitten will eat and drink water. Bowls for food and water should be placed in a secluded, quiet place. During meals, the cat should not feel stressed. If there are other animals in the house, so that the Siamese does not experience discomfort, cat containers can be placed on the windowsill, cabinet, or other elevations accessible to the kitten.
Bowls can be:
- made of high quality plastic;
- ceramics;
- glass;
- clay;
- stainless steel
When choosing a material for cat dishes, consider its quality parameters and ease of care.
For food, bowls should be wide and not too deep. If you plan to feed dry, ready-made food, you can purchase one bowl, divided into several sections. Make sure that your pet's whiskers do not come into contact with the edges of the dishes while eating. Bowls should be stable and not make noise while your pet is eating food.
As for drinking water bowls, Siamese are quite picky in this regard. Some pets want to drink water from our dishes or only from the tap, others prefer to lap up water from a bucket. Indeed, the Siamese breed is prone to gigantism. Therefore, taking into account this feature of cats, place a deep, wide bowl for water.
After each meal, be sure to wash bowls under running water without using any household chemicals. Containers for food and water should always be clean.
Choosing dry food
It is recommended to choose food for Siamese cats based on quality and age. So, you cannot feed kittens food intended for adults.
It has a different content and concentration of vitamins and minerals. In addition, the granules are larger in size, making them difficult for your kitten to swallow. And this increases the risk of suffocation.
Recommended food for the Siamese breed:
- 1st Choice. It contains only natural products and a high protein content.
- Nutra Mix has a balanced composition and includes the daily requirement of minerals and vitamins.
- Orijen is a high-quality product without harmful impurities, flavors, or taste enhancers.
- Brit Family Plate is the most budget option, but this does not affect the quality. This brand of food has a positive effect on the condition and appearance of the coat.
If the kitten's commercial food is incorrectly selected, the risk of developing various diseases in adulthood increases 2-3 times. Therefore, if the owner himself cannot decide on the choice of product, it is worth seeking help from a veterinarian.
Sample menu by age
When creating a sample menu by age for Neva kittens, take into account the digestive characteristics of your pet.
In the first 11-13 months, you should not dramatically change the Siamese’s diet. Stick to the feeding schedule, routine and routine. If there is a need to replace the diet, the transition should be gradual.
Up to a month
Up to a month from birth, the main nutrition of newborn kittens is maternal colostrum and milk, which contain nutrients for development and protective antibodies.
If the kittens are orphaned, Siamese are transferred to artificial feeding or they look for another nursing cat who will take care of other people's babies. Up to two weeks, the kitten eats 9-10 times without stopping to sleep at night, drinking 3-4 ml of milk at a time.
1 month
At 1 month, kittens continue to feed on their mother's milk. To feed artificial kittens, high-quality cat milk substitutes and infant formula are also used. Ready-made formulations in the form of capes for feeding kittens from 1 to 3 months are also available for sale.
The first complementary foods are gradually introduced per month. Children are given boiled minced chicken, meat pates, and purees. The average daily norm is 50-85 g.
2 months
At 2 months, in addition to mother's milk, kittens are gradually accustomed to new foods. Kittens are fed 5-6 times a day at the same time.
You can feed your Siamese:
- raw chicken, minced veal;
- calcined cottage cheese;
- boiled chicken, turkey fillet;
- raw veal scalded with boiling water;
- ready-made infant formulas.
With a ready-made diet, feed your Siamese pates and food marked “For kittens.” The daily dosage is indicated on the packages.
Do not forget that the gastrointestinal tract of Siamese up to 4-5 months is very vulnerable, so monitor the quality of food. If you are adopting a Siamese at the age of 2-2.5 months, ask what the breeders used for complementary feeding and give the pet the same food for the first week.
3 months
At 3 months, Siamese can be fed either natural food or switched to a ready-made diet. Kittens are given fermented milk products (cottage cheese, kefir, yogurt, whole milk), minced meat, boiled and raw lean meat. The diet includes chicken and quail eggs, stewed and boiled vegetables, seasoned with vegetable oil.
Drying is soaked in water, milk, kefir. It is best to initially give semi-moist, wet food, canned food, pates for kittens.
4 – 6 months
Until 6-7 months, a Siamese kitten is actively developing. Milk teeth are replaced, muscle and bone structures are strengthened. During this period, the body spends energy, so nutrition should be fortified and as balanced as possible.
Natural nutrition at 4-6 months:
- fermented milk, dairy products;
- lean meat (veal, beef, chicken, rabbit, turkey);
- lean boiled fish;
- eggs;
- offal;
- cereals, cereals;
- vegetables fruits.
With a ready-made type of food, the Siamese is given high-quality dry and wet food, alternating them in the diet. As the kitten gets older, the portion size is gradually increased, reducing the frequency of feedings.
From 6 months to 1 year, a Siamese kitten develops certain taste preferences. The pet is accustomed to either natural food or ready-made food. The Siamese is fed 3 times a day. From 10-11 months, you can switch the kitten to 2 feedings a day.
Due to possible stomach upset, whole natural milk is removed from the diet. From six months onwards, meals are supplemented with raw, boiled offal.
What can you feed a Siamese kitten?
Mother's milk should be replaced with food rich in minerals and vitamins; be sure to ask how the previous owners fed it and how long ago it was taken from the cat. In order not to create stress on the body in the future by abruptly switching to a new diet.
If he is still small, under 2 months of age, then it is advisable to feed him with a cat's milk replacer, which can be easily purchased at any pharmacy. Under no circumstances should you give your baby cow's milk; it is not at all suitable for nutrition, as it contains a large proportion of fat for a kitten and can cause upset, especially for an undeveloped stomach. If your furry one is already more than 3 months old, then you can add more varied food to the diet, but you should also take into account some rules.
A kitten's diet may include the following foods:
- Low-fat fermented milk products;
- Meat by-products: lungs, liver, heart, kidneys;
- Boiled fish, but don’t overdo it, once a week will be enough;
- Frozen or boiled meat: chicken, beef.
- Baby food, in small canned meats;
- It is advisable to give egg yolk 2 times a week;
- Dry or wet food.
Also, for proper nutrition of the Siamese, you should definitely give fruits and vegetables. If your baby refuses to eat vegetables separately, then you can add them to meat or porridge. The proportions should be observed as follows: 2:1, meat and vegetables. Don’t forget about clean and fresh water; it should always be within reach of your pet. If you decide to feed your pet ready-made dry food, then the food should be carefully selected, and also do not forget about the composition. And buy only “premium” and “super-premium” class food, or better yet, holistic food, in which you can be 100% sure that your kitten receives all the most beneficial substances. And if you want your pet to be healthy, it is better to forget and not remember about economy-class food, because they will not bring anything good. You can also read a useful article about cat food ratings.
Water
Drinking fresh and clean water should always be freely available to the Siamese kitten, regardless of its diet. Use only filtered, settled or bottled water without carbonation. Kittens love to drink water straight from the tap. But it contains chemical compounds, chlorine and other elements of the periodic table that will not benefit the pet’s body.
Change your drinking water at least once a day. Before changing the water, rinse the bowl and wipe it off with a clean sponge.
What substances are necessary for normal growth
A Siamese kitten's diet should contain foods enriched with vitamins, micro- and macroelements, which contribute to its active growth and the formation of a strong immune system.
Essential vitamins include:
- A - strengthens vision, takes an active part in cellular regeneration, has a positive effect on the condition and appearance of the skin and coat.
- Group B - is responsible for the functioning of the kidneys, helps break down carbohydrates, improves the process of digesting food. B2 ensures active development of the muscle corset. B12 is an important substance for the smooth functioning of the liver and the proper development of the central nervous system.
- E is a powerful natural antioxidant that is responsible for the functioning of the kitten’s reproductive system.
- D - promotes the absorption of calcium, prevents rickets, strengthens bones and teeth.
The actively growing body of a pet needs minerals, especially calcium, the source of which is dairy and fermented milk products.
For a kitten’s body to function normally, it also needs magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. When purchasing dry food, it is important to carefully study the composition: it must contain all useful components.
External features of the Thai cat
Many people confuse the Thai and Siamese cats. This is not surprising, because fluffies are very similar to each other. However, there are some differences that will help you determine the breed with maximum probability. For example, Thai cats have a more massive build and strong limbs.
In addition, it is also important to study other features of the appearance of Thais
Breed name | Thai cat |
Time of origin | 1990 |
Country of origin | Siam (today Thailand) |
Lifespan | 10-14 years |
Average weight | 4-6 kg (as an adult) |
Average height | 28-30 cm |
Cost of kittens | 200-500 dollars |
Wool
Thai kittens belong to the short-haired category of pets. Their coat is soft and silky. Animals have no undercoat.
Color
There are several color options for Thai cats. However, they are all united by the color point type, when the paws, tail and muzzle have a darker shade compared to other parts of the body. Today, the following wool color options are distinguished: chocolate, lilac, blue, caramel, gray-brown, cinnamon, fawn, red, beige, brown.
Head
It has a round shape without sharp corners. The forehead is slightly convex, the cheeks are round and pronounced. The nose is straight and of medium length.
Ears
They are medium in size, wide at the base and slightly rounded towards the tips. Located widely spaced from each other.
Eyes
Thai cats have beautiful, large, almond-shaped eyes. Since childhood, they have been slightly slanted; the shade can vary from soft blue to dark blue. At the same time, a more saturated, deep eye color is valued much higher, and an animal’s eyes that are too round or too slanted exclude it from the breed standards.
Tail
It is slightly wide at the base, but becomes sharper and narrower towards the tip. The length is proportional to the size of the animal's body.
Body
Thai cats are distinguished by a rather dense, muscular body with a broad chest. At the same time, the animals do not look massive, and their limbs are of medium length. The paws themselves are round in shape and small in size.
How to determine the age of a cat by external signs and behavior?
It's no secret that the appearance of cats changes over the years. An experienced veterinarian can, after examining a cat, approximately determine its age. There are certain signs by which you can determine the age of a pet, but you should understand that they can also indicate certain diseases. So, by what signs can you tell how old a cat is?
Teeth
The condition of the teeth is the best way to correctly determine the age of a cat.
It is worth paying attention to their color. Young cats have snow-white teeth, but at the age of 3–5 years a yellow coating appears on them.
Strong yellowing usually occurs at 5–10 years of age, but after 12 years they have a rather intense yellow color.
It is also worth paying attention to the fangs and incisors. Already at 3–5 years old they begin to wear off a little
And at the age of 5–10 years, loss of the lower and upper jaws is possible. Usually at this time tartar and cracks already appear. As you age, gum disease appears and existing problems get worse. And after 10 years, the incisors may fall out. At the age of 15, the incisors and canines often fall out, and the molars are also worn out. In this case, the cat needs semi-liquid or soft food, otherwise it will not be able to live long.
Wool
The coat fades over time, and its pattern loses its clarity. The coat begins to lose its softness and density. All these changes become noticeable from the age of 6 years. And from the age of 10 you can see gray hairs on individual hairs. Quite old cats may develop bald spots on their fur, although this sign should not be considered a definition of old age, since cats lose their fur due to various diseases.
Mustache
Gray hair appears not only on the fur, but also on the mustache. Initially, several colorless hairs appear. Gradually their number increases until all vibrissae become white. This usually happens around the age of 10 years, and sometimes earlier.
Eyes
The eyes of young felines are transparent, the iris is characterized by brightness, evenness and purity. Over time, it becomes heterogeneous, wrinkles, spots and lines become noticeable on it. After 10 years, the eyes become dull, sometimes cataracts may develop, and frequent tearing is observed.
Musculoskeletal system
The spine begins to suffer from about 8–10 years of age, which manifests itself in its sagging. At the same time, it can be noted that the bones of the shoulder blades and shoulder girdle protrude, but the fat layer disappears. The skin, as well as the muscles of the back, become sagging, and hanging folds may appear on the abdomen. In old age, lice are usually thin, but cases of obesity are also possible.
It is worth paying attention to the cat's gait. In old age, it becomes “wooden” - the paws bend poorly, jumping is characterized by clumsiness, and possible loss of coordination of movements
The owner should set up a quiet shelter close to the ground so that the cat does not have to bother getting into it. It is worth noting that cat claws also change with age and lose flexibility.
Behavior
Cats in old age are no longer as active as when they were young. In this they are no different from people. Animals rarely play anymore and may become restless or timid. Typically, by the age of 10–15 years, a cat has many chronic diseases, which are characterized by fatigue, urinary problems, heart failure and joint inflammation. It is better to regularly show a cat to a veterinarian after 10 years of age. He can prescribe certain courses of treatment for her or change her diet.
With age, problems may arise when using the tray. As urinary control decreases, the cat may not be able to make it to the litter box in time. It is worth understanding that the animal is innocent in this. There is no need to scold him, since you can further create psychological trauma for an already weakened cat. This problem can be dealt with by using disposable wipes or you can move the tray closer.
How to feed a Thai kitten
Typically, a kitten is separated from its nursing mother at the age of 2 months. From this moment you can start the first complementary feeding. Only high-quality feed is suitable for this. Cheap diets can negatively affect the health and physique of the baby.
The following foods are suitable for feeding Thai kittens:
- Cimiao Kitten;
- Innova Cat and Kitten;
- Chicken Soup for the Soul;
- ProNature Chicken and Sweet Potatoes;
- Royal Canin Babycat Milk (milk formula), Babycat Instinctive.
Dry food should be pre-soaked in water. Otherwise, scratches may remain in the kitten's stomach. Don't worry if your baby initially refuses the food offered. Offer him food periodically, someday curiosity will take over, and he will definitely try. Additional subtleties of the diet are here.
Important! A Thai kitten should be fed 4-6 times a day. At the same time, do not overfeed your small pet, because he may overeat
That is why food should be given often and in small portions.
What types of British cats are there - all colors in pictures
Many of them have existed since the appearance of the breed, and some were obtained more recently as a result of careful selection.
Solid colors
Chocolate Britons have a nose color that is slightly darker than the coat or matches its color, while Cinnamon, on the contrary, has a pinkish-brown nose that stands out against the darker coat.
Cats of the fawn color (also called the color of a young fawn) have fur of a warm light beige shade, and the pads of their paws and nose are a delicate pinkish color.
Tortoiseshell colors
This can be a combination of rich colors (black, chocolate or cinnamon) with red, as well as blue (or purple) with cream.
The paw pads are pink or black, and the eyes are copper and gold shades. Cream slippers on the paws or short stripes on the nose are possible.
Color point color
A characteristic feature of this group of colors is a light body color and contrasting dark areas - the muzzle, ears, paws and tail.
Tabby colors
Dark stripes stretch along the back all the way to the tail, on the sides there are patterns in the form of curls, the tail and neck are decorated with rings. Colors of this type include marbled on gold and silver, as well as black marbled.
Tiger Tabby (also known as Tabby or "Mackerel") - A longitudinal stripe runs along the line of the spine, from which thin stripes descend on the sides.
Spotted tabby - spots are located on the back and sides, they stand out against a light background. Their shape can be oblong, oval or round.
Sometimes the tail is also spotted or decorated with open rings.
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