Himalayan

• ExerciseLow

  Gentle play sessions and a warm windowsill keep them content.

• GroomingDaily grooming

  Daily combing is a must — this coat mats fast.

• Living spaceFlexible

  Adapts to most homes; cat trees and window perches help.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment9–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Kidney disease · Brachycephalic syndrome · Entropion

The Himalayan is a Persian in colourpoint dress — a Persian crossed with Siamese to produce the blue eyes and pointed pattern on a Persian's serene, gentle body and temperament. It is a calm, quiet, affectionate homebody that asks for little beyond a peaceful household and a soft place to lounge, and it makes a poor match for chaos or boisterous children. Grooming is the big commitment: the long, dense coat mats within days, so daily brushing is essential, and the flat face means the eyes tear and must be wiped clean every day. This is a cat that depends on you to keep it comfortable. As a brachycephalic breed it is heat-intolerant and can breathe noisily, so keep it strictly indoors and cool. Buy only from breeders who screen for polycystic kidney disease, common in the Persian family, and watch for the eye, dental-crowding and breathing problems that come with the short muzzle. Daily coat and eye care, lifelong kidney monitoring and a good dental routine keep most 'Himmies' happy into their teens.

• How much play does a Himalayan need?

  Low. Gentle play sessions and a warm windowsill keep them content.

• How much grooming does a Himalayan need?

  Daily grooming. Daily combing is a must — this coat mats fast.

• Is a Himalayan suited to apartment living?

  Flexible. Adapts to most homes; cat trees and window perches help.

• Is a Himalayan a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Himalayan live?

  9–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Himalayan?

  Keep an eye out for Kidney disease, Brachycephalic syndrome, Entropion. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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