Does your Siamese cat act like a dog? It may be surprising, but this is common in Siamese cats. These affectionate, playful, and human-loving felines are as loyal as man’s best friend. But, why are these cats so dog-like?
Siamese cats are well-known for exhibiting dog-like behaviors. They are extremely intelligent, create strong bonds with humans, and are more vocal than other cats. They also have high energy levels and require more exercise than many other cat breeds.
Understanding the unique needs of your Siamese cat will help you to care for them to the best of your ability. Read on to find out why Siamese cats behave like dogs.
Behavioral Traits of Siamese Cats
Siamese cats are a beautiful breed with spectacular personalities. Originally bred in Thailand, which was known as Siam until 1939, these cats have been around for centuries with behavioral traits and appearances much like today.
Intelligence
First and foremost, this cat breed is very smart and curious. They love to explore your house, climb on high shelves, and knock over objects. These extroverted kitties know how to get into mischief. They have been known to open doors, turn on faucets, and slink into cabinets and closets where they don’t belong.
So, supplying your Siamese cat with plenty of toys and playtime is important. They enjoy puzzle toys that give them plenty of mental stimulation.
Trainability
Like their canine compatriots, these cats also can learn tricks, which is a great way to keep them busy and out of trouble. Many owners train them to walk outside on a lead or fetch toys. Siamese cats can even do tricks usually reserved for dogs like high-fiving, rolling over, and fetching.
To train a Siamese cat, start when they are young. Give them a daily routine with regular training time. Use treats and praise to reward their behavior. Some owners even use a clicker to train a Siamese cat.
A strong bond with owners
These cats love to be in the company of others. They are social cats who are outgoing and loyal. They don’t shy away when guests come over. They enjoy being the center of attention. Similar to dogs, they rely on the praise and attention of humans. They crave that attention and seek it out.
However, they typically pick one person who they imprint on. Once they have bonded with you, Siamese cats are demanding their owner’s attention. These cats are quite vocal, making a loud, low-pitched meow to get your attention.
They even follow their owners around. This is their way of showing you how much they care for you and need your attention. In this case, you will want to set aside time each day for your kitty friend. Petting, playing with, and training your cat are great ways to reinforce that incredible bond with your dog-like Siamese cat.
High energy level
These smart cats have lots of energy to spare. You may see them sprint across your floor and bound over furniture as they run laps through the house. They are agile and can jump to high places with ease. They also enjoy playtime more than many other cats.
Siamese cats are slow to lose that kitten-like playfulness. Many owners choose to have two Siamese cats so that they can play together and use up some of that excess energy.
Other ways to keep your Siamese cat occupied include the following:
- playing fetch
- taking them for a walk around the house
- Using teaser toys
- Providing cat towers for them to climb
Experts recommend at least 30 minutes of exercise a day for your cat, which is why many owners train them to be on a leash. With a leash, you can allow your high-energy cat to explore the outdoors safely.
Dog-like Behaviors in Siamese Cats
Some of the behaviors Siamese cats exhibit seem very dog-like. These behaviors may be baffling to cat owners who are used to more aloof and independent felines. However, Siamese cats’ dog-like natures can be great fun.
Why do some Siamese cats exhibit dog-like behaviors?
These cats are bred to be intelligent and affectionate, two characteristics that are popular in most dog breeds. These two traits make Siamese cats more dependent on humans for attention, love, and mental stimulation.
Additionally, if your Siamese cat grew up in a house of dogs, this may also influence the cat’s behaviors. Your cat may begin to pick up some of the traits of its canine friends.
Examples of dog-like behaviors in Siamese cats
Siamese cats can show a large range of dog-like behaviors. Some of these behaviors may surprise you.
Separation Anxiety
Separation anxiety is a common issue in social dogs like Golden Retrievers and Labradors. However, Siamese cats can suffer from separation anxiety, as well.
These cats may panic when their favorite human is away from the house. This anxiety can be mild to severe. They may begin to demonstrate destructive behaviors while you are gone or refuse to eat. They can also urinate or defecate all over the house. Siamese cats do not like to be alone.
Great with Kids
Like dogs, Siamese cats are great with kids. Some other cat breeds are skittish. They may hiss and scratch when kids try to play with them, but a Siamese cat is always ready for a new playmate. They are also bold so they won’t likely hide away when children are loud and boisterous. They are great for families.
Protective
You have heard of a guard dog, but what about a guard cat? These cats won’t likely stand guard at the gate, but they do stand guard over your affections. Siamese cats protect you in the way they know best. They may try to monopolize your attention from other humans or pets. They’ll likely sleep at your feet so they can keep watch over you as you rest.
Clumsy
You are probably familiar with how clumsy a puppy can be. He seems to be all legs, especially in the awkward juvenile stage. Yet, Siamese cats are not as graceful as most of their peers. They seem to stumble over themselves and into objects.
Scientists have determined that Siamese cats have poor depth perception, which makes it a little harder for them to navigate where to put their feet. This usually isn’t a big issue, but an elderly Siamese cat may have more difficulty seeing.
How to address and manage dog-like behaviors in Siamese cats
These dog-like behaviors are usually not problematic. They can make your Siamese cat even more endearing. However, some of these behaviors may become problematic if you don’t know how to handle them or they begin to become severe.
Dealing with Separation Anxiety
A Siamese cat with severe separation anxiety can cause problems for the whole family. Who wants a cat destroying furniture or pooping and peeing around the house? Plus, it can be heart-wrenching trying to leave every morning for work if your cat is distressed.
There are several ways you can address these behaviors. Some owners opt to get their cat a buddy, but if that is not an option for you, here are some other tips:
- Take the cat to the vet to rule out medical issues
- Turn on a radio or TV to simulate people being at home
- Spray calming sprays like Feliway
- Slowly acclimate your cat to your leaving by practicing in shorter bursts
- In extreme cases, your cat may need anxiety medication
Make sure to spend time with your cat each day, but don’t linger at the door showering him with extra affection or it may make the anxiety worse once you leave
Talk to your vet about your cat’s anxiety. They will be able to give you some more tips and treatments for managing separation anxiety.
Provide Mental Stimulation
The Siamese cat’s intelligence can get them in trouble sometimes. They need to be able to use their brains to problem-solve and explore. They need regular mental stimulation. If they don’t, they are more likely to get into trouble. They may begin knocking objects off shelves. Or, they may start scratching furniture.
Most dog owners understand that you’d never leave an energetic, intelligent puppy to his own devices, but if you are a cat owner, you may not be ready for that kind of behavior.
Help keep your Siamese mentally stimulated by providing him with a wide variety of toys, climbing trees, and exercise time to burn off that excess energy.
Conclusion
Siamese cats are intelligent, affectionate, and high-energy felines. They need lots of mental stimulation and attention. They are very rewarding pets and their dog-like behaviors endear them to many owners. Provide your pet with regular exercise and playtime to optimize their health and happiness. Once you know how to interact with your canine-like feline, you both will be happier.