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The Himalayan and Balinese breeds are examples of medium-sized cats with medium to long hair. They share a very similar appearance with subtle differences which differentiate them. However, while their appearances are similar their personalities, interests, and overall character are totally different.
Himalayan Vs Balinese Cats.
Himalayan cats are the product of a Persian and Siamese mix. They are very subtle, affectionate, easy-going, sociable, and playful. On the other hand, the Balinese breed is a mutated version of the Siamese breed that has long hair, athletic nature, and intellectual abilities. Both these breeds boast qualities that may be attractive to different people.
Appearance
Colour and pattern.
Himalayan cat’s bodies are mostly white or cream in color, with points of different shades and colors. Just like the Balinese point, the Himalayan point shares the same color points on their extremities such as seal, chocolate, red, lilac, and blue.
The Chocolate and Lilac point Himalayans are the most difficult to produce since they require both parents to carry the gene. They also come in a variety of color patterns such as tabby, lynx, and tortoiseshell.
Balinese kittens are born cream or white and gradually develop visible points in colder parts of their body – the face, ears, paws, and tail. Their color is only identifiable by week 4. Some cats tend to darken with age, and generally, adult Balinese cats living in warm climates have lighter coats than those in cool climates.
Balinese cats come in a variety of colors also, however, The Cat Fanciers’ Association standard continues to accept the Balinese in only the classic seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac points, with all other possible colors and patterns classed separately as Javanese. Lynx and tortoiseshell patterns are not included.
Fur.
Himalayan cats are long-haired similar to the Persian breed. These cats have super thick and fluffy hair that is fine, which requires daily maintenance. Although himmies are not very big in size their highly dense fur coat make them appear large. Himmies have a double coat which means an increased volume of the cat’s fur, proper hygiene must be practiced to keep the fur in good shape.
The contemporary Balinese cat has a medium-length fur coat that is silky and soft. They don’t have an undercoat, which means less volume and overall lower maintenance. Their fur lays close to their body and you can see their fur the best on their plush tails.
Size/weight.
Himalayan cats are medium to large in size with excessively long fur. They are not very big but they have big, heavy bones. Himmies usually weigh between 7-12 pounds, with some males exceeding this range.
Balinese cats are medium-sized but muscular with long tubular bodies. These cats are tall and slender with fine bones. The average Balinese cat weighs between 6-10 pounds with males being slightly bigger.
Eyes/Facial Appearance.
| BREED | EYE COLOR | FACIAL FEATURES |
| Himalayan | Brilliant Blue | Roundhead and round large eyes. Flat face (peke faced) or doll face. |
| Balinese | Deep Blue | Wedged shaped/ apple-shaped head, round eyes, and large erect ears. |
Personality.
Sociable.
Himalayan cats are very friendly they enjoy the company of other humans and pets. They are known for their attachment to families or to one specific person. These cats get involved with families and strong bonds are shared. They are also extremely welcoming to other family members as well as pets and in a matter of time, they blend in comfortably.
Balinese cats are very friendly and sociable. They love interaction and human attention. Just like the siamese cat, these cats are outgoing and very friendly. They thrive on companionship and generally do well with other pets and family members. However, they can become sociably demanding at times since they form close bonds with the people they are attached to.
Affectionate.
Himalayan cats are quite affectionate in their approach and how they like to be treated. Their ability to display a playful side and a softer more affectionate side is truly a desirable trait.
They love to cuddle, rub themselves on their owners and make themselves comfortable on their parent’s laps. Balinese cats are no different as they love attention and affection. Balinese cats hate being alone and they require constant engagement and stimulation to thrive.
I would say that the Balinese breed is more demanding when it comes to affection as they can become clingy and attached.
Both breeds display affection and it can be seen in their behavior. This behavior consists of:
- Their love for Cuddling.
- The way they groom/ lick their human parents.
- The tag along and following, wherever their owners go.
- Their need for companionship.
Intelligence.
Descended from a Siamese cat, the Himalayan cat shares some of that intelligence and playfulness. Himmies can be taught certain games and simple commands. Their intelligence is very evident in the way they communicate, their ability to show affection as well as in the way they can be trained to do various things.
Balinese cats, also known as the long-haired Siamese cats are some of the most intelligent cat breeds. These cats are smart, inquisitive, funny, and can be mischievous. They love active involvement and playtime, normal toys are too simple for them as they require interactive toys that will stimulate their predatory instincts.
These cats have some of the strongest personalities and intellect which enables them to play games, understand certain commands, open doors and they can also be trained. They need plenty of enrichment to allow for their mental growth which will enhance their ability.
Characteristics.
Tolerable towards Kids.
Himalayan and Balinese cats do well with kids as they are very tolerant and kind in nature. However, himmies are a better fit when it comes to kids since they are more subtle and forgiving.
Balinese cats on the other hand can be a little rough just like their Siamese ancestor. While they will tolerate kids, they won’t accept being mistreated. Overall they will do well with kids but can become defensive and vocal when they disapprove of certain actions.
Ultimately the responsibility is on the parents since it’s their job to teach their kids how to treat pets in a good manner.
Behavior Towards Other Pets.
Himalayan cats don’t necessarily mind sharing homes with another pet. They are friendly and will do well with other equally-natured pets. They love companionship and will thrive off the company of another pet, provided that the pet is similar in character and temperament.
Balinese cats will also do well with other pets provided they be given time to adjust. At first, it can be difficult for these cats to share their space with other pets since they may be seen as competition. With time they usually come around and great bonds are created.
Balinese cats also do well with most well-mannered dogs as they share similar interests and an active lifestyle.
Destructiveness.
Himmies on the other hand are not destructive at all, but just because they are cats they will feel natural urges to scratch as it’s an important way for them to maintain their claws as well as stretch. Therefore always keep their claws maintained and get a scratch post to save your furniture in case they feel the need to scratch.
Due to their active lifestyle, the Balinese breed requires a lot of stimulation and company. They are not the type of cats that like to be left alone, in fact, if they are left alone for long periods of time they can become destructive to fill the void. Behavior such as biting and excessive scratching are common in such situations.
Health.
Himalayan cats are not very healthy since they are prone to a lot of hereditary health issues, therefore the breeder you choose must be registered and reliable. There is also a lot of common ailments associated with this breed especially himmies that are flat-faced.
Himmies are prone to:
- Polycystic Kidney Disease.
- Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome.
- Breathing problems due to narrow nasal passage. This problem is only associated with flat-faced Himalayans ( Brachycephalic).
- Watery Eyes.
- Obesity.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy.
Balinese cats are a generally healthy breed but they do have certain health issues that they are prone to. For this reason, it’s always best to consult with a legit reputable breeder for they produce healthy kittens that come with health guarantees.
Balinese Cats are prone to:
- Inherited Neurological defects.
- Liver amyloidosis.
- Cardiomyopathy.
Lifespan.
| BREED | AVERAGE LIFESPAN | FACTORS AFFECTING HEALTH |
| Himalayan | 10 – 15 years | Breathing problems, polycystic kidneys, retinal atrophy and obesity. |
| Balinese | 15-20 years | Breathing problems, bladder stones, heart defects, and hyperesthesia. |
Maintenance.
HIMALAYAN CATS REQUIRE:
Bathing is essential every 2-3 months to remove oils and dirt. Daily brushing to prevent mats and tangles. This is because they have long, thick hair with an undercoat. If not brushed it could cause tangles and mats to appear.
Himalayans shed a lot, brushing reduces shedding. If not the loose hair can really cause havoc in your home. They also need their face wiped since some himmies are flat-faced, their eyes are watery. If not wiped the corners of their eyes could stain.
BALINESE CATS REQUIRE:
Balinese cats don’t require much maintenance since they don’t have an undercoat. Brushing twice a week will be sufficient to keep their fur tangle and mat-free.
Bathing will also be required every 2-3 months according to the condition of their coat. Apart from this they also require a high protein diet to nourish their active lifestyles.
The most demanding requirement for Balinese cats is their need for constant social attention. They require a lot of playtime, companionship, and affection. They can also become clingy and overly attached.
Price.
| BREED | KITTEN | QUALITY PEDIGREES | SHELTER |
| Himalayan | $500 – $900 | $1200 – $2500 | $75 – $150 |
| Balinese | $800 – $1500 | Up to $3000 | $100 (rare) |
