Origin
Around 1950 in the United States, a Siamese cat had a litter in which several kittens had long hair. Breeders worked with these "longhaired Siamese" and the breed was eventually recognised. The name "Balinese" was chosen because the cat's grace was reminiscent of Balinese dancers.

Character
The Balinese is a very social, active and intelligent cat. Like the Siamese, it is vocal and loves to communicate. It is affectionate and bonds strongly with its owners.

Care
Despite its semi-long coat, care is easy as there is virtually no undercoat. Weekly brushing suffices.

Body: long, slender, elegant and muscular. Semi-foreign type.

Head: long wedge shape, straight profile without break.

Eyes: almond-shaped, slightly oblique. Deep blue.

Ears: large, wide at the base, continuing the lines of the head wedge.

Tail: long and thin, forming a plume of hair.

Coat: semi-long, fine and silky, no undercoat.

Colour: colourpoint like the Siamese: seal, blue, chocolate, lilac and others.