Balinese and Javanese Description

The Balinese and Javanese are the long-coated cousins of the Siamese, differing from their Siamese roots only in coat length. They are found in the four traditional point colors: seal, blue, chocolate and lilac. The Javanese has added red/cream, parti-color and lynx to the breed. The coat should be medium in length and longest on the tail. It should be fine and silky, lacking any undercoat. Coloring should be even, with allowance for darkening in older cats; points should be clearly defined. Including the Javanese colors, the breed comes in 28 colors and combinations. The head should be a long and tapered wedge, medium in size and in good proportion to the body. Eyes should be no less than one eye-width apart, almond shaped and medium in size. Ears should be strikingly large, pointed, and continuing the line of the wedge. The nose should be a long, straight continuation of the forehead with no break. The Balinese and Javanese should be medium in body, long and graceful; svelt. They should display the Siamese combination of fine bones and firm muscles. Legs should be long and slim, in good proportion to the body, with small and dainty oval shaped paws.

Balinese and Javanese Temperament

The Balinese is a loving and affectionate pet that loves to be with its people. They are veritable velcro cats, going everywhere and being as close as possible- they even love to ride on their owners' shoulders. Vocal just like the Siamese, they have a softer and more melodious voice. If you're feeling blue, the Balinese will undoubtably pick up on this, offering purrs and cuddles until you are feeling better.

Balinese and Javanese Care

The Balinese is easy to care for. They require only the occasional brushing as their own grooming keeps them clean. A good diet and plenty of playful exercise will help to maintain their sleek form.

Balinese and Javanese History

The Balinese is a breed that developed from a spontaneous mutation of the Siamese coat. They occurred in Siamese litters long before gaining notice. There is some record of ancient Chinese tapestries depicting longhaired cats and there is a record of a long-haired Siamese registered with the CFA in 1928. Breeding of the Siamese for the long coat, however, did not occur until the 1950's. The breed received its name from the grace and elegance of the Balinese dancers. The breed founder did not feel that Long Hair Siamese rolled off the tongue, and sought other alternatives. After a period of struggle in the 70's and 80's, the breed had a comeback in the 1990's and established a unified standard and vision for the breed. The Balinese is a beautiful hybrid of Siamese form and long, flowing coat. When the decision was made to add more color to the breed in 1978, the Javanese was created and for a time held it's own standard. However, the CFA chose to merge both breeds back into the Balinese class as they differ only in coat color.