Our Siamese program encompasses the traditional applehead and the classic styles. The traditional types are known as 'Old Style Siamese' within the Cat Fanciers' Federation (CFF). The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) has a breed standard for Siamese cats that specifies the modern style; however, many traditional style cats have eight-generation (at minimum) pedigrees registered with the CFA. Our traditional Siamese cats all have this extensive pedigree.
Our breeding philosophy is that health, longevity, and temperament come first. We are dedicated to breeding cats free of genetic health problems who will be devoted and long-lived companions. Our aim is to produce cats of moderate type, with a distinctive Siamese appearance, voice, and personality. We intend to bring together the best features of various types with the goal of strengthening and improving the breed. This is a labor of love that takes time and patience, but is infinitely worth the effort.
A traditional 'applehead' Siamese cat is a moderately large cat with a fairly round head (hence the term 'applehead'), a substantial body, and a plush, soft coat. The voice tends to be quieter than that of the modern types. Our queen Permes Mayan Dawn of Sarahna is an excellent example of this style.
A classic Siamese cat has a moderate wedge shaped head and face, with more definition to the muzzle than the applehead, longer legs, and a slimmer, more muscular body. The Siamese coat is smooth and lies flatter than that of the applehead. This cat is also substantial in size, with a voice that may range from quieter tones to a more distinctive, louder tone.
All types of Siamese cat exhibit the very person-oriented, dog-like personality and playfulness that characterize the breed. They easily learn to come when called, to play games such as 'fetch', and to obey the rules of the house. They love to carry on conversations with 'their' humans and to be in on everything that goes on in the house. Like dogs, they require human affection and interaction and don't do well when left alone for prolonged periods of time.
All of the cats at Sarahna are registered with both the CFA and CFF.