Flame Point Siamese cats have garnered a special place in the hearts of feline enthusiasts around the world with their striking appearance and captivating personalities. This unique variation of the traditional Siamese breed is distinguished by its creamy body coat adorned with vibrant red or reddish-orange points on the ears, face, paws, and tail.
Known for their affectionate nature and playful disposition, Flame Point Siamese cats are not only visually stunning but also engaging companions that thrive on social interaction.
What is Flame Point Siamese?
The Flame Point Siamese, also known as the Red Point Siamese, is a rare and unique variation of the traditional Siamese cat breed. These felines are characterised by their striking red or reddish-orange points (ears, face, legs, and tail) contrasted by a creamy white or pale body coat. Their vibrant points and brilliant blue eyes make them stand out from other Siamese cats.
Origin and history
Flame Point Siamese cats are a relatively new breed, first appearing in the 1930s in the United Kingdom. Breeders worked diligently to develop this unique colour pattern by crossing traditional Siamese cats with red or ginger-coloured shorthair cats, such as the American Shorthair. The goal was to produce Siamese-type cats with distinctive red points.
However, achieving the desired red colouration proved challenging as it is difficult to breed out the tabby markings that often appear on the points. It took several generations of selective breeding to refine the Flame Point Siamese and establish the breed.
Recognition and naming
The Flame Point Siamese is not universally recognised as a distinct breed by all major cat registries. In the United Kingdom, the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) and the Australian Cat Federation (ACF) acknowledge these cats as a colour variation within the Siamese breed, referring to them as Red Point Siamese.
In the United States, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) does not include Flame Point Siamese in the Siamese breed standard. Instead, they are classified as a separate breed known as the ColorPoint Shorthair. Other American registries, such as The International Cat Association (TICA), do accept Flame Point Siamese as a colour variant of the Siamese breed.
The term “Flame Point” seems to have been borrowed from the Persian and Himalayan cat breeds, where it is used to describe a similar reddish-orange point colouration. However, in the context of Siamese cats, the more accurate term is Red Point, as used by the GCCF and ACF.
Rarity and demand
Flame Point Siamese cats are considered one of the rarest and most sought-after Siamese colour varieties. Their scarcity and unique appearance contribute to their high demand and price tag. Prospective owners may face challenges finding a Flame Point Siamese kitten from a reputable breeder.
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Flame Point Siamese cat
Appearance
Flame Point Siamese cats are easily identifiable by their unique colouration. They possess a creamy white or pale body coat adorned with vibrant orange or red markings on their ears, face, paws and tail. This distinctive colour pattern results from selective breeding, combining the traditional Siamese with domestic shorthairs, particularly those with ginger or red hues.
Kittens typically start life with entirely white or cream fur, and their colour points develop gradually over the first few months. The intensity of the red points may also change with temperature; warmer environments can lighten the colour, while cooler temperatures enhance the vibrancy of the red. Adult Flame Point Siamese cats generally weigh between 9 to 14 pounds and stand around 16 to 21 inches tall, embodying a sleek and elegant physique characteristic of the Siamese breed.
Personality
Flame Point Siamese cats are renowned for their affectionate and sociable nature. They are highly intelligent and playful, often described as dog-like due to their tendency to follow their owners around and seek companionship. Their vocalisation is another notable trait; they are known to be quite chatty, often engaging in conversations with their humans. This vocal behaviour is a reflection of their desire for interaction and attention.
These cats thrive on social engagement and can become demanding if they feel neglected. They require ample playtime and mental stimulation to keep them happy and prevent boredom-related behaviours. Flame Point Siamese cats are generally good with children and other pets, making them an excellent choice for families. Their friendly disposition allows them to adapt well to various living situations, whether in a busy household or a quieter environment.
Health
Flame Point Siamese cats are generally healthy, with a lifespan ranging from 15 to 20 years. However, like all breeds, they may be predisposed to certain health issues. Common concerns in Siamese cats include dental problems, respiratory issues, and certain genetic conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and dental care are essential to maintaining their health.
Additionally, the breed’s social nature means that they can experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods. This can lead to stress-related behaviours, so it’s crucial to provide them with companionship and stimulation when their owners are away.
Grooming and care
Grooming a Flame Point Siamese cat is relatively straightforward due to their short coat. Regular brushing – ideally once a week – helps to reduce shedding and prevent hairballs. This grooming routine also provides an opportunity for bonding between the cat and its owner.
In addition, regular nail trimming is necessary to keep their claws manageable and protect furniture from scratches. Bathing is generally not required unless the cat gets particularly dirty, as their coat is designed to be self-cleaning.
Feeding
As obligate carnivores, Flame Point Siamese cats require a diet high in protein. Quality cat food should contain at least 25 per cent protein, with whole meats such as chicken, turkey or fish listed as the primary ingredients.
Wet food can be beneficial for hydration and digestive health, while dry food can help maintain dental health by reducing plaque and tartar buildup. It is essential to monitor their weight and adjust food portions accordingly, as these cats can be prone to obesity if overfed or not sufficiently exercised.
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How to identify Flame Point Siamese
Identifying a Flame Point Siamese cat involves recognising specific physical characteristics, understanding their unique colouration, and being aware of their overall breed traits.
Physical characteristics
- Body structure: Flame Point Siamese cats possess a sleek, slender and muscular body typical of the Siamese breed. They have a long neck, a deep chest and a graceful posture, which contributes to their elegant appearance. Their legs are long and slender, culminating in small, oval paws.
- Head shape: The head of a Flame Point Siamese is wedge-shaped, with a narrow muzzle and prominent cheekbones. Their ears are large, pointed, and wide at the base, giving them an alert expression.
- Eyes: One of the most striking features of the Flame Point Siamese is their vivid blue eyes. The colour is intense and can vary slightly in shade, but it typically remains a bright, captivating blue that stands out against their coat.
Colouration
- Body coat: The body of a Flame Point Siamese cat is predominantly creamy white or pale cream. This light base colour is a defining characteristic of the breed, setting it apart from other Siamese variations.
- Point colour: The most distinguishing feature of the Flame Point Siamese is the red or reddish-orange points. These points appear on the ears, face, paws and tail. The colouration can range from a soft orange to a deeper red and these points must contrast sharply with the lighter body coat.
- Tabby markings: Many Flame Point Siamese cats exhibit faint tabby markings, particularly on their face, legs and tail. This is a remnant of their genetic lineage as they are often bred from traditional Siamese and tabby cats. These markings may appear as stripes or spots and can add to the uniqueness of their appearance.
- Development of colour: It is important to note that Flame Point Siamese kittens are born entirely white. The distinctive colour points develop over time, typically becoming more pronounced by six months of age and continuing to deepen until they reach full maturity, around two years old.
Breed traits
- Temperament: Flame Point Siamese cats are known for their outgoing and affectionate nature. They are highly social and enjoy interacting with their owners, often seeking attention and companionship. Their playful and intelligent disposition makes them engaging pets.
- Vocalisation: This breed is also known for being quite vocal. They communicate with a range of sounds, including meows, trills and chirps, often expressing their needs or desires for interaction.
- Intelligence and playfulness: Flame Point Siamese cats are intelligent and curious, often requiring mental stimulation and playtime to keep them entertained. They enjoy interactive toys and games that challenge their problem-solving skills.
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