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Siamese: temperament, health and care
Siamese: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this cat suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium, about 3.5–5.5 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–15 years (some live longer) |
| Exercise | Moderate to high |
| Grooming | Short coat; minimal grooming |
Temperament and who it suits
Vocal, social and demanding; needs company and attention.
Often suits: people home a lot who enjoy a talkative cat.
They can become bored or noisy if left alone.
Health problems to know about
- Dental disease
- Progressive retinal atrophy
- Asthma and bronchial disease
- Amyloidosis
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Siamese
- See the kitten with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped by 20 weeks old in England
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have cats like this looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to cats for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Siamese live?
A Siamese typically lives 12–15 years (some live longer). Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Siamese need?
Moderate to high.
What health problems are common in a Siamese?
Common concerns include dental disease, progressive retinal atrophy, asthma and bronchial disease and amyloidosis. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Siamese need?
Short coat; minimal grooming.
Who does a Siamese suit?
It often suits people home a lot who enjoy a talkative cat. They can become bored or noisy if left alone.
Similar cats
Sources
- International Cat Care: cat breeds and health
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Cats Protection: compulsory microchipping of cats in England
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.