Siamese cat: traits, health and insurance Guide

Siamese cat breed overview

Siamese cats are one of the most recognisable and affectionate cat breeds in the UK. Known for their sleek coats and blue eyes, Siamese cats love being around people and thrive on attention. They’re intelligent, playful, and often form strong bonds with their owners.

Key facts about Siamese cats

Lifespan

10 to 15 years.

Height

20 to 25 cm.

Average weight

3.5 to 7 kg

Coat

Short and fine coat in various colours.

Grooming

Brush weekly.

Temperament

Affectionate, vocal and high energy

Learn more about Siamese cats

They have a unique look

With their sleek bodies and blue almond-shaped eyes, Siamese cats are instantly recognisable. Their coats darken with age and temperature.

They are highly social

These cats form strong bonds with people and do not like being left alone for long. They do best in homes where they have company with people or other pets.

They are very talkative

Siamese cats are known for their loud, expressive voices. They often “chat” with their owners and expect attention in return, making them one of the most vocal cat breeds.

Common health conditions in Siamese cats

Siamese cats can live long and happy lives, but they are prone to several health conditions. Here are six to be aware of:

Asthma

A respiratory condition where the airways become inflamed, causing coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. It can be triggered by allergens or stress and often appears in young to middle-aged cats. Treatment may include inhalers or steroids to manage symptoms.

Amyloidosis

A genetic condition where abnormal proteins build up in organs like the liver or kidneys, leading to organ damage. Symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, and fatigue. While there’s no cure, early diagnosis and supportive care can improve quality of life.

Progressive retinal atrophy

A genetic eye disease that causes gradual vision loss and eventual blindness. It usually starts with night blindness and worsens over time. There’s no treatment, but genetic testing can help breeders avoid passing it on.

Feline hyperesthesia syndrome

A neurological condition that makes cats overly sensitive to touch, especially along the back. It can cause twitching, sudden aggression, or obsessive grooming. Medication and stress reduction can help manage symptoms.

Cancer

These cats are more prone to cancers like lymphoma and mast cell tumours. Symptoms vary but may include weight loss, lumps, or changes in behaviuor. Early detection is key to successful treatment.

Vestibular disease

Vestibular disease in cats affects their balance and coordination, causing symptoms like head tilt, stumbling, and rapid eye movements. Many cases are short-lived and improve with rest and vet care.

Care tips for owners

Monitor their weight

Siamese cats are slender cats. Avoid overfeeding and keep treats to a minimum.
Keep them engaged

They’re highly intelligent and vocal cats. Puzzle toys and interactive play help prevent boredom.
Groom weekly

Their short coat is low-maintenance, but a weekly brush helps remove loose hair and keeps their coat shiny.
Clean their ears

Check for wax or dirt. Their large ears can collect debris.
Trim nails regularly

Regular trims help keep them comfortable and protect your furniture.
Visit the vet regularly

Siamese cats are prone to dental and respiratory issues. Regular vet visits are important.

Why do you need cat insurance?

Cat insurance is there to cover your cat if they have an accident or illness and will cover the costs of the treatment needed, minus any excesses.

Some of the key reasons to buy cat insurance are:

Cost of vet fees

Vet fees can cost thousands of pounds depending on the type of treatment and the size and breed of your pet.

Peace of mind

Knowing that you are covered for what can be a large unexpected bill.

Lifetime cover

If you choose a lifetime policy, any illnesses or accidents insured will continue to be covered for the whole of your pet's life.

Why choose us?

Co-op Cat Insurance has great features to help your cat when they need it most.

Pay monthly at no extra cost

Your policy will cost the same overall whether you pay upfront or monthly.

Choose the cover for your pet

We offer lifetime and time limited policy types, each with a choice of cover levels.

Adoption discount

Get a 2.5% discount if your pet is adopted from a recognised animal charity or rescue centre. This introductory discount applies for the first year only and is subject to a minimum total price.

24/7 access to vets online

You can book a vet video consultation anytime through FirstVet without paying an excess, it affecting the cost of your insurance or counting as a claim.

Compare our cover types

Compare the difference between the two types of Co-op Cat Insurance.

Cover	Lifetime	Time limited
Vet fee cover	up to £16,000	up to £5,000
Lifetime cover for recurring illness for example if your pet is insured and you keep renewing, cancer treatment is covered for life	Lifetime cover for recurring illness included	Lifetime cover for recurring illness excluded
Dental treatment	Dental treatment included	Dental treatment included
Third-party liability cover dogs only	Third-party liability cover included	Third-party liability cover included
Pay monthly at no extra cost	Pay monthly at no extra cost included	Pay monthly at no extra cost included
Advertising and reward if your pet goes missing	up to £2,500	up to £1,000
Loss of pet due to theft or if they are lost	up to £3,000	up to £1,000

Lifetime

Vet fee cover

up to £16,000

Lifetime cover for recurring illness
for example if your pet is insured and you keep renewing, cancer treatment is covered for life

Lifetime cover for recurring illness included

Dental treatment

Dental treatment included

Third-party liability cover
dogs only

Third-party liability cover included

Pay monthly at no extra cost

Pay monthly at no extra cost included

Advertising and reward
if your pet goes missing

up to £2,500

Loss of pet
due to theft or if they are lost

up to £3,000

Time limited