The Lynx Point Siamese is not a separate breed but is one pattern seen in the Siamese cat, according to The International Cat Association Breed standard for the Siamese. The Cat Fanciers Association does not recognize the Lynx-Point pattern in Siamese; only solid-colored points in four colors (seal, chocolate, blue, and lilac) are permitted in the CFA breed standard.
The CFA and the Canadian Cat Association both recognize a separate breed, called the Colorpoint Shorthair, which is essentially a Siamese with more allowable colors and patterns, including lynx point. So, if you are looking for a Lynx Point Siamese, consider searching for a Colorpoint Shorthair in the Lynx Point pattern.
The lynx point pattern consists of tabby markings within the points on the extremities (head, legs, and tail). Lynx Point Siamese come in several colors, including blue, blue-cream, chocolate, chocolate tortie, cream, lilac, lilac-cream, red, seal, and seal-tortie.
OTHER NAMES: Lynx Point Colorpoint Shorthair
PERSONALITY: Amiable, gentle and dog-like
WEIGHT: About 6 to 14 pounds
LENGTH: Up to 14 inches
COAT LENGTH: Short, glossy, fine-textured and close-lying
COAT COLOR: All colors have tabby (lynx) markings: blue, blue-cream, chocolate, chocolate tortie, cream, lilac, lilac-cream, red, seal and seal-tortie
EYE COLOR: Vivid blue
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 12 years
HYPOALLERGENIC: No
ORIGIN: United States
Like all Siamese, the lynx point Siamese is active, outgoing, affectionate, and curious. Siamese are some of the most intense “Velcro cats,” a nickname that refers to their need to be close to—often touching—their favorite humans. They want to be part of the action and will follow you all over the house to learn what’s going on that day. Because they are so friendly, Lynx Point Siamese usually get along great with other household pets, including other cats and cat-friendly dogs. As is true with most Siamese and colorpoint shorthairs, the Lynx Point Siamese is an extremely vocal breed. If the cat is awake, it's likely to be “chatting” away with loud yowls and meows. Lynx Point Siamese are highly intelligent and can even be trained to do fun tricks. Try positive training methods, such as clicker training, and use plenty of yummy food rewards.
The Lynx Point Siamese was created in the U.S. sometime during the 1940s or 1950s when some breeders began experimenting with color in the Siamese breed. A red tabby American shorthair was bred to a seal point Siamese and a whole new world of color opened up for the Siamese breed. These new cats looked just like Siamese in all ways but color, coming in more than the four solid traditional Siamese colors. Some also featured patterns within the color points, including lynx point (tabby markings) and tortie point (tortoiseshell markings).
Some cat registries decided to recognize these cats as an entirely separate breed from the Siamese, calling the new breed the colorpoint shorthair. Other cat registries decided that these were still Siamese cats, so they adjusted the breed standard for the Siamese to include the new colors and patterns.
The colorpoint shorthair comes in 16 different colors, including solid color points (red, cream, seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac), lynx point (blue, blue-cream, chocolate, chocolate tortie, cream, lilac, lilac-cream, red, seal or seal-tortie) and parti-color point (blue-cream, chocolate-tortie, lilac-cream or seal-tortie).
The Lynx Point Siamese’s coat is short, smooth, and easy to care for. The coat doesn’t shed excessively. Brush weekly with a rubber curry brush, grooming mitt, or soft bristle brush to remove loose hair. Bathe these naturally clean cats occasionally to keep the coat soft and shiny. Trim your lynx point Siamese’s nails weekly or every other week and check inside the ears every so often to look for any signs of dirt. If the ears look dirty, clean them with a cat ear cleanser and cotton ball or gauze square (never stick anything like a cotton swab into a cat’s ear). If the ears look red, inflamed, or excessively dirty, or if you notice your Lynx Point Siamese shaking its head or scratching at its ears, schedule a checkup with your veterinarian to rule out ear mites or an ear infection.
Lynx Point Siamese are highly active. Help them get enough exercise by providing plenty of climbing opportunities, perches, and scratchers. Help ensure your Lynx Point Siamese scratches in the right places (and not your carpet or the sofa) by placing more than one scratcher of varying types. Some cats like vertical scratchers (such as posts or cat trees), others like horizontal scratchers that lie flat on the ground (like cardboard or sisal scratchers), and some cats enjoy scratching vertically and horizontally. It won’t be hard to engage your Lynx Point Siamese in play sessions to burn off energy—this breed loves to play. Try a variety of toys, such as feather teasers or fishing pole toys, furry mice, jingle balls, interactive toys that move, and puzzle toys that the cat must manipulate to extract a treat.
The Lynx Point Siamese is at risk for the same issues seen in the Siamese and the colorpoint shorthair, including:
The Lynx Point Siamese is very graceful and refined, muscular without being bulky, and very athletic. The breed is medium-sized with fine bones and a long, tubular body with tapering lines. The legs are long and well-muscled but finely boned. The rear legs are slightly taller than the front legs.
One of the breed’s trademark characteristics is its wedge-shaped head with flat forehead and fine muzzle. The Lynx Point Siamese’s very large ears are wide at the base and continue the lines of the wedge. The medium-sized, almond-shaped eyes, which are always a deep, vivid blue, slant toward the long, straight nose. The short coat is tight, close-lying, fine textured, and glossy.
The Lynx Point Siamese is lightly but muscularly built. This is an active breed that tends to get a lot of exercise if provided with enough engagement and opportunities to run, climb, and play. Though they are less likely to pack on the pounds compared to more sedentary breeds, it’s a good idea to keep a close eye on your cat’s weight to make sure they're staying lean. If you’re not sure of your cat’s ideal weight, ask your veterinarian.
Keeping your Lynx Point Siamese lean may help to prevent the development of certain health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Always feed your cat measured amounts of food at regular meal times (twice a day for adult cats) and avoid free feeding (leaving food out all day), which can lead to overeating. Your veterinarian or breeder can recommend a healthy food for your Lynx Point Siamese.
Though the Siamese is a popular breed, Lynx Point Siamese are somewhat more challenging to find than Siamese of traditional colors. Your best bet is to search out an excellent breeder who breeds Siamese to the TICA breed standard, or someone who breeds colorpoint shorthair cats (CFA breed standard).
The Cat Fanciers Association and The International Cat Association publish lists of Siamese and colorpoint shorthair cat breeders on their websites. If you are rescue-minded, you might also be able to find an adult Lynx Point Siamese by searching animal shelters or breed-specific cat rescue groups. This rare and beautiful cat may cost between $400 and $1000. Kittens generally cost $250 to $400.
The Lynx Point Siamese cat is a sociable, affectionate, and energetic companion. If you’re looking for a cat to keep you company, look no further. This breed is unlikely to stray far from your side, happy to follow you around as you go about your day and trying to take part in every activity you do. They are so connected to their people that they simply don’t do well when left alone all day.
Some cat breeds are independent and content to sleep the day away while you’re off at work or activities, but Lynx Point Siamese will get lonely if you aren’t around a lot. If you must be away, consider a feline friend for your cat to cuddle and play with. This breed is extremely vocal, and though breed lovers adore the loud yowls and meows of the Lynx Point Siamese, not everyone appreciates such a loud cat.
When deciding if the Lynx Point Siamese is the right cat for you, consider these pros and cons of the breed:
If you like the Lynx Point Siamese, you might also like these cat breeds:
Lynx Point Siamese cats are not rare but they can be difficult to find.
Lynx Point Siamese cats are active cats that are very playful. They are gentle and affectionate.
While a Lynx Point has tabby markings, a seal point is solid in color.
Common Injuries in Dogs and How to Treat Them
Learn about the most common injuries in dogs—whether in their legs, spine, tail, or eye—and how you should treat them with this helpful list.How to Calm a Panting Dog
Learn how to calm a dog’s breathing when they’re panting or breathing too fast. Dogs may breathe fast for several reasons. Know when to call the vet and how to determine if it’s an emergency.Common Antibiotics for Dogs
Antibiotics are commonly used in dogs to treat a variety of infections. Learn about some common types of antibiotics for dogs, what conditions they treat, potential side effects, and safety information.Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, or PBGV for short, is a small, shaggy-coated scent hound from France. Known for their charming personality and cuddly appearance, Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are outgoing, confident, and proud dogs.Golden Retriever: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care
Learn about the golden retriever, one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. It is known for its loyalty, enthusiasm, and sweet, bright eyes.Becoming a Show Dog: Getting Started
Do you have the perfect puppy? Have you considered showing her in a dog show? There's much more to showing than showing up! Here's how to get started.How to Train Your Dog to Go to Its Place
Training your dog to go to its bed or place is a great way to get it to settle down quickly. Learn how to get your dog to follow the place command.Myths and Superstitions About Black Cats
Black cats have played a major role in folklore, superstition, and mythology for centuries. Learn the origins behind these black cat stories.Devon Rex: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care
The Devon rex is a unique breed known for their unique appearance, including large ears, big eyes, and a short, wavy coat. They are active and friendly cats who make a great fit for most families. Learn more about the Devon rex cat breed.Birman: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics & Care
The Birman is a medium- to large-sized cat breed that has a stocky body and a quiet demeanor. Learn more about this kind-natured cat.Reasons Why Your Cat Acts Crazy and How to Stop It
Cats do some strange things. Learn the reasons why your cat may run around acting crazy and find out if it's something you should be concerned about.Why Cats Eat Litter and How to Stop It
Eating litter is not uncommon in kittens, but it may be a sign of health problems in adult cats.How to Discipline Your Cat the Right Way
Cats are mischievous but sometimes they also misbehave. Learn how to safely and effectively discipline a cat and positively change their behavior.Ringworm in Cats
Ringworm in cats is a fungus similar to athlete's foot in humans. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.Signs of Heat in Cats
A cat in heat will show several physical and behavioral signs. Here's how to tell if your cat is in heat and how to care for her during this time. Learn the signs and how to prevent pregnancy, even if her cycle has begun.What to Do if Your Cat Is Snoring
Cat snoring can happen for several reasons. Find out if your cat's snoring is normal or caused by a medical issue. Know when to call the vet about your cat snoring.Is Lavender Safe for Cats?
Are cats safe around lavender? Find out how lavender affects cats and what to do if your cat is exposed to it.Hyperlipidemia in Cats
Hyperlipidemia is an abnormally high level of fat in a cat's bloodstream. Learn the causes, treatment, and prevention.275 Best Male Cat Names for Your Handsome Kitty
There are plenty of male cat names to choose from if you’re looking to add a new tomcat to the family. Here are 275 of our favorite choices for male cat names.Can Dogs Eat Raw Chicken Feet?
What are the potential health benefits of chicken feet for dogs? What are the risks?