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Cody is a Balinese!
The Balinese is the result of human controlled breeding efforts on the part of Mrs. Helen Smith and Mrs. Marion Dorsey. Both ladies owned catteries during the mid-1950s and decided that they would start a breeding program to select for the longhaired kittens that were an occasional oddity in the Siamese litters. The results were originally registered as a longhaired Siamese; but, the name was changed to reflect the grace and beauty of the Balinese dancers & because the original "longhaired Siamese" name was rather clumsy.
After the name change, the breed became more popular and several breeders worked on improving the appearance. Eventually there were 2 different lines; with one following the "apple-headed", heavy bodied line and the other appearing more similar to the Siamese. The thinner, more contempory Siamese-style is currently more popular with the judges.
Balinese are shown in seal, blue, lilac point and chocolate; as are the Siamese. The semi-longhaired, silky and fine coat is a single coat with no downy undercoat and is approximately 2" long. The tail is a graceful, silky plume. It is very affectionate, intelligent, talkative and active. This is an inquisitive breed that wants to be close to its owner; often meddling in what its owner is attempting to do.
It is, traditionally, a sturdy, robust cat with a semi-rounded (apple shaped) muzzle and large flared ears positioned to continue the triangle.. The "show" animals tend to be longer with slim bodies. Although it resembles the "Ragdoll", they share no genetic background. The almond shaped eyes are a rich sapphire blue.
Grooming the Balinese is more simple than with long-haired cats because the single coa doesn't mat or tangle. A good diet and lots of exercise will keep it looking smooth and glossy.
We are pleased to welcome Cody to our practice!
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