How to Identify a Balinese Cat

Balinese cats are thought to be derived from the Siamese. They have identical body types and colorings, but the Balinese has longer fur, which offers a sleeker appearance. The Balinese breed is known for being good-natured and playful and are thought to have high levels of intelligence.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Feel the cat's fur. Balinese cats have long hair, but it clings very closely to the body. Unlike other long-haired cats, Balinese cats have only one layer of fur that looks very full.

2. Pick up your cat. Balinese cats should be lightweight but muscular.

3. Identify the cat's body type. Balinese cats are long cats. They have long bodies, limbs and tails. They also tend to be very glossy in appearance.

4. View the colorings. There are only four possible colorations for a Balinese. These are seal point, blue point, chocolate point and lilac point. These are the same colorings as a Siamese.

5. Gaze into his eyes. This breed has vibrant, sapphire-colored eyes.

6. Play with her. Balinese cats are known for being able to go from seeming sleek and elegant to goofy and hyper instantly.

Tips & Warnings

• If the cat appears very similar to a Balinese but has slightly different colorings, then it may be a Javanese cat.
• Watch out for feline dermatitis. Although this breed has long fur, it's thin and does not protect the skin as well as thicker fur does. Dermatitis can be recognized by small lesions or bumps on the skin, especially around the base of the tail, or by excessive scratching.
• Watch closely for weight loss. Being such a sleek cat can cause weight loss to go unrecognized. Weight loss can be signs of many health issues, both manageable and serious.