A variety of the Siamese breed, Flame Point cats are named for their distinctive coloration. These felines feature a primarily cream or white body with vivid reddish-orange or "flame" colored points on the ears, face, paws, and tail. Meanwhile, the term "point" refers to the contrasting colors on various parts of their body.
Flame Points are considered to be extremely rare cats due to the amount of work it takes to breed them. In the US, a kitten of this breed can cost you anywhere between $500 to $2800. If you've made up your mind to purchase or adopt a Flame Point, this guide will help you understand these cats better!
Origin And History
Also known as the Red Point Siamese, the Flame Point Siamese cat is a variation of the traditional Siamese cat breed with unique coloration. This color variation was developed in the 1930s and 1940s in the United Kingdom. Breeders aimed to create a new Siamese variant by introducing the red or orange gene, which did not exist in the original Siamese color palette of seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac points.
To achieve Flame Point coloration, breeders crossed Siamese cats with red or orange domestic shorthairs and Abyssinians. The purpose behind creating this breed was to expand the range of Siamese color points and introduce a new and appealing color variant. Through selective breeding, the red point color was successfully established and eventually recognized by cat registries.
Flame Point Siamese Physical Features
When it comes to appearance, the Siamese Flame Point is possibly one of the most visually appealing cat breeds. With their unique coloration on the tip of the ears, combined with their iconic blue eyes, these cats are an example of nature's perfection.
These key physical traits will best describe the Flame Point cat.
1. Coloration
The unique and vibrant coloration is the signature characteristic of the Flame Point Siamese cat. Its points—covering the ears, face, paws, and tail—are a distinct reddish-gold or flame color. The distinct pattern is a result of breeding traditional Siamese cats with red or orange domestic shorthairs and Abyssinians.
This vibrant color creates a striking contrast against the cat’s creamy white or pale fawn body. The overall effect is a warm and eye-catching appearance that distinguishes the Flame Point from other Siamese varieties. The intensity of the flame coloration can vary among individuals, but it remains the defining feature of this beautiful cat breed.
2. Blue Eyes
Another hallmark of the Flame Point Siamese is their mesmerizing blue eyes. Their eyes have a vivid blue shade that stands out against their warm-toned coat. The color intensity adds to their allure, giving them a captivating and exotic look.
Additionally, the blue eyes of the Flame Point Siamese are almond-shaped and set at a slight angle. This combination of vivid blue eyes and flame-colored points is what makes the breed truly unique.
3. Athletic Body
Flame Points are muscular kitties with an active lifestyle. Their long, graceful build is typical of the Siamese breed, paired with a wedge-shaped head, a long neck, and a slender, tapered tail.
The Siamese variety is medium-sized, with a lithe and well-proportioned frame. Built for agility, their long legs and fine-boned structure allow them to move easily and gracefully.
4. Short Coat
The Red Point Siamese cat has a short, glossy coat that lies close to its body. The fur is easy to groom and requires minimal effort to keep it looking sleek and shiny.
Similarly, the coat is also soft to the touch as it beautifully enhances the tactile experience for those who pet or hold them. Its light color further provides a unique backdrop for the flame-colored points.
Temperament And Personality
While cats are known to be mostly introverted, the Flame Point breed is the exception. These felines often form a close bond with their humans and forever remain a part of their lives.
Extremely vocal, these cats can to great lengths to safeguard their family.
Affectionate
Flame Point Siamese cats form close friendships with their human companions and thrive on close interactions. Whether snuggling up on the couch or greeting you at the door, they consistently seek physical contact and attention.
Their strong need for companionship makes the breed an excellent pet for those who appreciate an interactive and loving relationship with their feline friend. The empathic behavior extends to gentle head butts, purring, and the constant desire to be by your side.
Playful
The playful spirit of these cats is a delight for families and individuals alike. They have a youthful exuberance that persists throughout their lives, often engaging in games and antics that keep their owners entertained.
Their playfulness is coupled with a high level of energy, so they appreciate a variety of toys and interactive play sessions. Whether chasing laser pointers, playing with feather wands, or exploring puzzle toys, these cats bring joy and laughter to their households with their antics.
Intelligent
Flame Point cats enjoy challenges and mental stimulation, making them adept at learning tricks, navigating puzzles, or even walking on a leash. Their curiosity drives them to explore their environment, and they are often keen observers of their surroundings.
However, a higher intelligence means consistent engagement is required to prevent boredom, as an unstimulated Siamese might resort to mischievous behavior.
Vocal
These cats often communicate through a range of vocalizations to express their needs, desires, and emotions. From soft trills and purrs to loud meows and yowls, their expressive voices are a constant presence in the home.
Additionally, they can remind owners when they want attention, food, or playtime. This fosters a deeper understanding and bond between the cat and their human companions.
Loyal
Red Point Siamese cats often choose a favorite person to shadow around the house. Their loyalty is evident in their protective behavior, as they tend to stay close and watch over their loved ones.
Their devoted nature makes them attentive companions who are always ready to offer comfort and support.
Training A Flame Point Siamese Cat
Flame Point Siamese cats are exceptionally trainable, often compared to the intelligence level of a toddler. Their high intelligence allows them to quickly learn and respond to commands, tricks, and routines. This keen mental capacity is accompanied by a curious nature, which keeps them engaged and interested in training sessions.
Unlike many cat breeds, Flame Point Siamese cats tend to follow commands. They are motivated by the opportunity to please and receive attention. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats, praise, and affection, work particularly well with this breed.
Basic Commands And Tricks For Siamese Flame Point Cat
- Sit: Teaching your cat to sit on command is a foundational behavior that helps with other tricks and commands.
- Come: This command can be useful for calling your pet to you, especially when you need them close or want to initiate playtime or mealtime.
- Stay: Training your Siamese to stay in one spot until released is beneficial for managing their movements during specific situations.
- High Five: A fun trick where your cat lifts their paw to “high five” your hand, often using treats or praise as motivation.
- Fetch: Similar to a dog, some Flame Point Siamese cats can be taught to retrieve and return small toys or balls.
- Speak: You can encourage your cat to vocalize on command, which is particularly enjoyable with a vocal breed like the Siamese.
- Walk on a Leash: Training your cat to walk on a leash allows for safe outdoor exploration and exercise.
- Jump Through a Hoop: This trick involves your cat leaping through a hoop, which can be a great way to exercise their agility and coordination.
- Shake Hands: Teaching your cat to extend a paw for a handshake is a simple yet impressive trick.
- Roll Over: With patience, some cats can be taught to roll over on command, showcasing their flexibility and trust.
Coat Care And Grooming
Grooming this Siamese variety involves cleaning the vital parts of the cat to maintain its tidiness. To keep their coat healthy and free of loose fur, it is recommended to brush them at least once a week.
A fine-toothed comb or a soft-bristle brush works well to remove dead hair and reduce shedding. Despite having a short coat, regular brushing helps maintain the coat’s natural shine and minimizes hairballs.
Bathing is not often necessary for Flame Point Siamese cats, as they are generally clean animals. However, if they get into something messy or oily, a gentle bath with cat-specific shampoo can be helpful. Always ensure the cat is fully dry after bathing to prevent them from getting cold.
Routine ear care and nail trimming are also essential parts of the grooming routine. Check the cat’s ears weekly for signs of dirt or infection, and gently clean them with a vet-recommended solution. Nails should be trimmed every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Additionally, regular dental care through brushing or dental treats helps maintain good oral hygiene.
Common Health Issues
While Flame Point Siamese cats share many health issues with the broader Siamese breed, some concerns are more prevalent or unique to their specific coloring and genetics. Here are a few health issues that may be more common or notable:
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
PRA is a genetic eye condition that causes the gradual degeneration of the retina, leading to progressive vision loss and eventual blindness. The disease starts with the deterioration of photoreceptor cells in the retina, which impairs the cat’s ability to see in low light and can eventually affect daytime vision as well.
PRA is hereditary and often appears in cats as they age, though symptoms can start earlier. Flame Point Siamese cats, like other Siamese variations, are prone to PRA due to their genetic background. The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning both parents must carry the gene for it to manifest in their offspring. There is no cure for PRA, but early diagnosis can help manage the condition.
Respiratory Issues
Due to their distinctive facial structure with narrow nasal passages and elongated muzzles, Flame Points might be at a higher risk of respiratory problems. Common issues include nasal congestion, upper respiratory infections, and breathing difficulties.
To prevent these issues, maintain a clean living environment by minimizing dust and allergens that could irritate their airways. Maintain proper ventilation and avoid exposure to smoke or strong odors.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
HCM is a heart condition characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the left ventricle. This thickening can lead to a reduction in the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, potentially causing heart failure or other serious cardiovascular issues.
In Flame Point Siamese cats, HCM can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, difficulty breathing, or sudden collapse. Early diagnosis through veterinary check-ups is crucial. While there is no cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Care options include medications such as beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers to help regulate heart function, along with dietary adjustments and regular monitoring by a veterinarian.
Skin Sensitivities
Flame Point Siamese cats often have sensitive skin due to their genetic predisposition. Their short coat and underlying skin may be more reactive to environmental factors and allergens.
These felines can be allergic to certain foods, dust mites, pollen, and household cleaning products. These sensitivities can be triggered by exposure to these allergens, leading to symptoms such as itching, redness, and inflammation. You can reduce these episodes by using hypoallergenic cleaning products, maintaining a clean living space, and feeding allergy-friendly food.
Diet And Feeding Schedule
Feed a high-quality commercial cat food to meet the nutritional needs of your Red Point Siamese cats. Their diet should be rich in animal-based proteins to maintain muscle mass and healthy fats to provide energy. Another key nutrient includes taurine, an amino acid vital for heart and eye health.
When purchasing cat food, look for products with high protein content, such as chicken or fish, and minimal fillers or artificial additives. Including wet food in their diet can help with hydration and reduce the risk of urinary tract issues.
Feeding Routine
Kittens (0-6 months)
- Meals Per Day: 3-4 small meals.
- Choose high-quality kitten food with higher protein and fat to support rapid growth and development. Ensure constant access to fresh water.
Adolescents (6 Months-1 Year)
- Meals Per Day: 2-3 meals.
- Monitor weight and avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity. Include a mix of wet and dry food to support hydration and dental health.
Adults (1-7 Years)
- Meals Per Day: 2 meals.
- Regularly monitor weight and adjust portions to maintain a healthy body condition. High-quality adult food should meet their specific nutritional needs.
Senior Cats (7+ years)
- Meals Per Day: 2-3 meals.
- Select food formulated for senior cats, rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids.
