Siamese vs Thai

Verdict

The Thai is the traditional, rounder-headed Siamese type, and the profiles agree on nearly every score. Both are pointed, blue-eyed, short-coated, intelligent and talkative, and both want someone at home. The thing that decides it is build and availability. The modern Siamese is slender and common, with a recognised show history, while the Thai is a sturdier, more moderate cat that is rare and not recognised by the CFA. Choose the Siamese for the classic slim look, the Thai for a moderate body.

Choose the Siamese if

• You want the slender, long-lined modern type.
• You want the breed that is common and easy to find.
• You want a talkative cat with a voice score of 5 against 4.
• You want a CFA championship breed since 1906.

Choose the Thai if

• You want a sturdier, rounder-headed cat of 7-12 lb.
• You are happy with a rare breed that needs a search.
• You want a slightly more independent cat, scoring 2 against 1.
• You want a longer reported lifespan, 12-16 years against 12-15.

Where they are alike

Both score 5 for affection and intelligence and 1 for grooming, and both are pointed and blue-eyed. Each needs a person at home and dislikes long hours alone. Both score 4 for children and other pets, so either suits a lively family that gives the cat plenty of attention.