A slim, long-lined and athletic cat with a wedge-shaped head, large pointed ears and vivid blue almond eyes. Its fine, silky coat is medium length with no woolly undercoat, lies flat against the body and finishes in a feathery plumed tail.12
Coloursseal pointchocolate pointblue pointlilac pointred and cream pointscinnamon and fawn pointslynx (tabby) pointstortie pointssmoke points14
Personality what they are like
Chatty, loving and keen to be involved in everything. It follows its people around, joins in with daily routines, and is often likened to a dog in how it bonds and plays, though it chats a little less than a Siamese.142
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. Needs daily play and mental challenges, climbing and jumping spots, and can learn to fetch or walk on a lead.43
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
The single coat rarely tangles; a weekly comb or brush is enough, plus routine nail, ear and tooth care.43
Craves company and does not like being left alone for long stretches.43
The story where it all began
Longhaired kittens turned up in Siamese litters for decades before American breeders Helen Smith and Sylvia Holland began developing them seriously from the 1950s. Smith named the breed after the graceful dancers of Bali, and CFA granted championship status in 1970.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Despite the name, the breed was developed in the United States and has no link to Bali; the name honours Balinese dancers.4
2
Longhaired Siamese were registered as show cats as early as 1928.2
3
Breed pioneer Sylvia Holland was an illustrator at Walt Disney Studios.2
4
Many Balinese like to jump up and ride on their owner's shoulders.4
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed is named after the graceful dancers of the Indonesian island of Bali, reflecting the cat's elegant and lithe appearance.3
I wake up and immediately start chatting, there's so much to tell! I follow my human from room to room, offering opinions on everything. I love a good game of fetch with my favorite toy mouse, and I'm always up for a climb up the cat tree. After a busy morning, I curl up for a snuggle and a nap. But don't be fooled: I'm ready for more fun at a moment's notice. Every day is an adventure with my family!
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Championship 1970; Javanese colours added 1979 and merged into the Balinese as a division in 20081
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Balinese, and at what times?
Feeding schedules vary by your cat's age, weight, and activity level. Please ask your vet for a tailored plan that suits your Balinese best.
What should a Balinese eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality cat food is ideal. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.5
Does a Balinese need baths?
Balinese rarely need baths because their single coat stays clean. Only bathe if they are very dirty or sticky, following general cat care guidance.6
How often does a Balinese need brushing?
Weekly combing or brushing is enough for their silky coat. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every two days, and more often during shedding periods.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Balinese's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every few weeks; Furry Diary suggests every 21 days. General guidance advises every ten days to two weeks. Go slowly and only trim the tip to avoid the quick.6Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Balinese need?
Balinese have high activity needs and require daily play, climbing spots, and mental challenges. They can even learn fetch or walk on a lead for extra fun.43Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Balinese's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible; Furry Diary suggests every two days. Clean ears gently as needed. Your vet can show you the best technique for both.43Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Balinese live?
Balinese enjoy a long lifespan, typically living 18 to 22 years with good care.34
Is a Balinese good with children and other pets?
Balinese are loving, chatty, and bond closely with their family. Based on their social temperament, they usually do well with children and other pets when properly introduced.142
Can a Balinese be left alone?
Balinese crave company and dislike being left alone for long periods. They do best in homes where someone is around most of the time.43
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Siamese
Javanese
Oriental Longhair