are himalayan cats good pets

They welcome playtime, but also enjoy warming laps. Himalayans are intelligent and polite, especially when meeting houseguests. They are not overly vocal, but speak more in a melodious tone than a demanding meow. This breed, when properly introduced, co-exists nicely with other cats and dogs.

Grooming

The Himalayan cat is probably not the right choice for you if you can’t commit some time each day to grooming. A Himalayan dog’s long, silky hair easily tangles and mats, so brushing with a strong, wide-toothed comb should be done every day. This will get rid of any dirt, dust, debris, and loose hair while also preventing tangling and matting.

Every few months, Himalayans should also go to a professional groomer to make sure their coats are clean and in good condition. The good news is that Himalayans enjoy receiving attention from their owners, which facilitates grooming and is a great way for the two of them to bond.

Regularly trimming your Himalayan nails to just the tip, so as not to cut into the quick, will help protect your furniture. Examine your cats ears weekly, too. Know how to clean them if you find debris inside of them. See a vet right away if your cat’s ears are extremely dirty, smell bad, or are red or inflamed.

Himalayan cats, like those of other short-faced breeds, are prone to epiphora, or tear staining. This can leave unattractive reddish-brown stains on your cats face. If your cat has this problem, use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe their face once or twice a day to remove any extra tears before they become discolored. If the color is still present, ask your veterinarian to suggest a product made especially to get rid of the stains. Many are sold over the counter.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Himalayan

Himmies are very popular, so its possible to find one at a cat rescue or shelter if youre persistent. Check out pet adoption websites like Petfinder for breed-specific adoptions, but be aware that youll mostly find mixes, rather than purebred cats, in a shelter.

Many breeders specialize in Himalayans, so if your heart is set on a purebred cat, look for qualified breeders by searching online or visiting cat shows to speak to breeders in person. You can also look for breeders on the websites of the major cat associations, including The Cat Fanciers Association.

Behavior and Training Tips for Himalayan Cats

Himalayans can switch between snoozing in the sun and darting around the space. Although they are calm and generally lazy lap cats, they also have a playful side that gets really excited about balls, interactive toys, and catnip kickers. Your Himalayan may require some prodding to exercise on days when they would rather sleep for hours on end (and there will be plenty of those!).

A Himalayan cat can be the perfect pet for you and your family if you’re searching for a loving companion. As long as dogs and children are introduced gradually, they can get along well. Additionally, compared to other cat breeds, Himalayans are typically more receptive to routine changes, even though they may require some time and patience to get used to new circumstances.

Use a clicker to teach your Himalayan tricks and cues, and give them treats as a reward. However, despite their intelligence, not all Himalayans are clicker-trained enthusiasts, and some may not be food-motivated.

FAQ

Are Himalayan cats hard to take care of?

Caring for a Himalayan Cat. Coat care. The Himalayan’s coat is high maintenance, needing daily care. You’ll need to comb their fur frequently to remove tangles and brush their fur to remove loose hairs.

Are Himalayan cats cuddly?

These felines enjoy playing with toys, although they aren’t likely to go wild climbing your curtains like some other breeds. They are intelligent and very attuned to their owners, often greeting them at the door after an absence. Himalayan cats love to cuddle, be petted, and spend time interacting with their family.

What is the life expectancy of a Himalayan cat?

The Himalayan cat lifespan is an average of 9–15 years, so you’ll have lots of time to bond with your feline companion. However, they’re also prone to some health conditions, so purchasing pet insurance might be a good idea when you bring home your Himalayan kitten.

What is the temperament of a Himalayan cat?

Himalayans are gentle, aﬀectionate, and highly intelligent. They are known as lap cats, are easygoing and calm, and rarely vocalize. They can do well in apartments and other smaller spaces, and they get along best with other animals if they are introduced when young.