Also called Colorpoint Longhair, Balinese (Javanese Division), Javi
Recognised breedShort profile
From Developed in Canada and the United States in the late 1970s from Balinese lines, with Siamese-type foundation stock that traces back to Southeast Asia. The name nods to the island of Java, next to Bali.12
A slim, long-bodied oriental cat with a wedge-shaped head and big ears. Its silky coat has no woolly undercoat, so it lies flat against the body and looks sleek, with the longest hair forming a plume on the tail. Eyes are always blue.41
Colourssolid colour points: red, cream, cinnamon, fawnlynx (tabby) points in many colours, including silverparti-colour (tortie) points41
Personality what they are like
Bright, talkative and affectionate, though a touch quieter than a Siamese. It likes to be part of whatever its people are doing and enjoys a good play session followed by a cuddle.413
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. A keen climber and leaper that appreciates tall cat trees, shelves and daily interactive play to stay entertained.31
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Low effort for a longhair: with no undercoat the coat rarely tangles, so a comb or brush a few times a month is usually enough.4
Home where they are happiest
Suits indoor life with plenty of vertical space and toys to keep its busy mind occupied.3
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its family and does best with company and regular interaction rather than long hours alone.41
The story where it all began
Balinese breeders in Canada and the USA wanted recognition for colours beyond the four traditional Siamese points, so from 1979 CFA registered these cats as the Javanese. It reached championship in 1986, and in 2008 CFA folded it back into the Balinese as its own colour division.14
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
It is named after Java, the island neighbouring Bali, following the tradition of giving oriental-type breeds Southeast Asian place names.1
2
The term 'Javanese cat' was first coined around 1950 by breeder Helen Smith, though for a different variety than today's.1
3
Without a downy undercoat, its longhaired coat lies close and sleek instead of looking fluffy.4
4
It can jump with ease to the top of a fridge, bookshelf or even a door.3
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name 'Javanese' was chosen in 1979 by breeders who, needing a new name for their cats, looked at a map and selected Java, an island near Bali, finding it appropriate as the two islands share a common language, culture, and religion, but Java is larger, richer, and more fertile.5
I wake up and stretch my long, silky body on the sunny windowsill. Mom calls my name, and I trot over, rubbing against her legs. After breakfast, I perch on my favorite tall cat tree, watching birds outside. Then I chase a crinkly toy mouse across the floor, leaping and pouncing. Later, I curl up on Dad's lap while he reads, purring loudly. When the kids come home, I greet them with a chirp and weave between their feet. Evening means more cuddles on the sofa. I love being part of everything.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Registered as a separate breed in 1979, championship status 1986; merged back into the Balinese in 2008 and now shown as the Javanese Division of the Balinese4
Other registries
The name 'Javanese' is used differently between registries; some have used it for the Oriental Longhair2
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Javanese. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Deshedding springBrush more while sheddingevery day
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Javanese tip
Javanese cats can be food-motivated, so use measured meals and limit treats to 10% of daily calories. Because dental disease is common, consider dental treats or diets recommended by your vet.
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 Javanese, and at what times?
Feeding schedules vary by age, activity, and the food you choose. Please ask your vet for a plan tailored to your cat's needs.
What should a Javanese eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A balanced commercial cat food is best, but for specific amounts check the label and your vet. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, keep these away from your Javanese.6
Does a Javanese need baths?
Baths are rarely needed for a Javanese, only when they are very dirty or sticky. Their silky coat stays clean with regular brushing.7
How often does a Javanese need brushing?
With no undercoat, a comb or brush a few times a month is usually enough. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 2 days and daily deshedding during shedding season.4Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Javanese's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every 10 to 14 days, taking no more than two claws per session at first. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days, so you can adjust based on your cat's activity.7Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Javanese need?
This bright, active cat needs daily interactive play and loves climbing tall cat trees. Furry Diary recommends daily play to keep them entertained and happy.31Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Javanese's teeth and ears?
Daily tooth brushing is ideal, and Furry Diary suggests brushing every 2 days. For ears, cleaning needs vary, ask your vet for the best routine. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Javanese live?
A Javanese typically lives 8 to 12 years, with proper care and regular vet checkups.3
Is a Javanese good with children and other pets?
Yes, they are affectionate and bond closely with family, so they usually get along well with children and other pets when introduced properly. For specific advice, ask a good breeder.41
Can a Javanese be left alone?
This social cat does best with company and regular interaction, so long hours alone are not ideal. They thrive when someone is home or with a feline friend.41
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.
Balinese
Siamese
Colorpoint Shorthair
Oriental Longhair