The Himmy combines the best of two very different breeds. Like the Persian, he has small ears, large round eyes, a snub nose and a sweet expression. His long, beautiful coat, which comes in seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, flame, tortoiseshell, blue-cream, cream, lynx points and many more colors and patterns, brings Siamese style to a short, heavy-boned Persian-style body.

This is a people-oriented cat with the sweet and sedate personality of the Persian, the “what-cha doin’ and how can I help?” attitude of the Siamese and, of course, the striking points and bold blue eyes of the Siamese. He communicates with his expressive eyes and his soft, melodious voice. The affectionate Himmy loves a lap, but if you’re busy with other things, he will be there to supervise, perhaps while playing with a favorite toy. He’s not a jumper or climber, instead posing regally on a chair or sofa. Himalayans are adaptable and will make themselves just as at home with a loud, boisterous family as with a pair of empty-nesters, as long as they have everyone’s complete devotion.

Be patient. If you want a particular colorpoint, you may have to wait six months or more for the right kitten to be available. Many breeders won't release kittens to their new homes until they are between 12 and 16 weeks of age.

Although the Siamese was used to develop the Himalayan, it is no longer part of Himalayan breeding programs. Be wary of breeders who describe their kittens as Siamese-Himalayan or Siamese-Persian crosses.