Himalayan vs Persian
A Himalayan is a Persian with Siamese-style colourpoints and blue eyes. Some registries call it a Colourpoint Persian and not a separate breed, so the differences are mainly colour.
Side by side
| Himalayan | Persian | |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | USA | Persia (modern Iran), developed in Europe |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | Usually 3.5 to 6 kg | Usually 3.5 to 7 kg |
| Lifespan | Often 10 to 15 years | Usually 10 to 15 years |
| Coat | Very long, thick and silky | Very long, thick and silky |
| Energy | 1 out of 5 | 1 out of 5 |
| Affection | 4 out of 5 | 4 out of 5 |
| Chattiness | 1 out of 5 | 1 out of 5 |
| Grooming needed | 5 out of 5 | 5 out of 5 |
| Good with children | 3 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
| Good with other pets | 3 out of 5 | 3 out of 5 |
Scores are our own rough guide. Every cat is different.
The main differences
- Colour: the Himalayan is always pointed with blue eyes, while the Persian comes in almost every colour, with many eye colours.
- Build and coat: the same cobby body and long, thick coat.
- Grooming and health: the same daily grooming, flat-face concerns and PKD risk.
- Name: Himalayan is the common name, and some registries say Colourpoint Persian.
Choose a Himalayan if
- You love the colourpoint and blue eyes
Choose a Persian if
- You want the widest choice of colours and patterns
Our verdict
Choose on looks, because their nature and needs are the same. Whichever you pick, choose a cat with a longer, more open nose and ask about PKD testing.
Read the full guides: Himalayan and Persian. Or see more cat breeds. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Questions people ask
Is a Himalayan a Persian?
Essentially yes. It is a Persian with colourpoints, and some registries list it as a Persian variety.
Which needs more grooming?
They need the same: daily combing.
