The difference between a Balinese and a Javanese are the coat patterns and colors that are accepted in the different associations. In CFA (Cat Fanciers Association) the Balinese are accepted only in the four basic Siamese colors; Seal Point, Chocolate Point, Blue Point, and Lilac Point. Javanese are the patterns and colors that are not accepted as a Balinese such as a Seal Lynx Point, a Red Point, a Tortie Point, etc. TICA (The International Cat Association) accepts the four basic Siamese colors plus the Lynx Point, Tortie Point, and Reds as Balinese. For further information on what colors and patterns are accepted in each association click on the links below for CFA and TICA.
We register and show our cats and kittens in both associations and from here on will identify the breed as Balinese.
The ideal Balinese have a long, tubular body, fine boning, long head, large ears placed with the outer edge in line with the wedge shaped head. The elegance of a long-haired cat with very little maintenance required. Their coat has been described as resembling that of an Irish Setter; long, sleek, close lying.
The Balinese are active, sweet, athletic, and playful. They like to be with you and will follow or dash ahead to help you with your daily chores, entertainment, relaxation, and anything else in which you are involved! Balinese are very capable of using their paws to open cupboards that do not have latches or magnets. They love to sleep with you or another member of your family. Each Balinese will vary as to exactly where they will sleep; some will sleep on your chest, on your shoulder, curled in your arm, under the covers (undercover agents), or on your pillow. They are up close and personal cats and love to be carried like babies over the shoulder or across your arms! Some Balinese will wrap their arms around your neck giving you a hug then proceed to wash your ears (kisses). A different cat may be a shoulder parrot and love to perch on your shoulder while you are doing your chores. They love to sit in your lap whenever it is available. Some Balinese are talkers with a sweet voice others are more quiet. Some of the Balinese like to fetch catnip toys or balls. I have found them to be very good cats with children. All of my Balinese seem to love feather cat teasers (dowels or wands with feathers attached. Each cat will have it's own unique personality.
Always double check your clothes dryer before closing the door; Balinese love warm places and will crawl in a warm dryer! Balinese kittens/cats will also seek the warmth from exposed lamp light bulbs and have been known to burn their ears, eyes, and/or fur.
Grooming a Balinese coat can be accomplished simply by petting the cat. Balinese usually only require a bath if they are being shown in a cat show. Once a week claw trimming is recommended with cat claw scissors, a tall scratching post, lots of love, premium quality food, plenty of fresh water, yearly check-ups and vaccinations will help your Balinese stay in the best possible health.
For further information, the following are excellent resources:
Cats Menu/Home Page/GeoCities WallStreet
Last Updated: January 13th, 1997
The Cat Fanciers' Association