If you already read our Siamese page, the differences here are the coat and the volume: a longer silky coat that rarely mats, and a gentler voice.
What differs from a Siamese
The CFA says the main differences are the longer, silkier coat and a softer, less vocal nature, and that long-haired kittens have appeared in Siamese litters since the 1900s because the gene is recessive. The CFA accepted the Balinese for championship in 1970. A Balinese may still ask for more attention with an occasional complaint, so expect a cat that likes to be talked to at drop-off.
A longhair that rarely mats
The coat is fine, silky and close-lying with no downy undercoat, which the CFA says makes matting rare; brushing or combing several times a month controls shedding. Oily coats may need a gentle shampoo, but nothing like that is required for a stay. A comb the day before drop-off is enough, and the tower blanket will collect less loose hair that way.
High energy, quick to rest
The CFA rates activity as high, with play that can go on a long time before the cat winds down quickly for a nap. It describes the breed as intelligent and people-oriented, an eager helper that can learn games like fetch. One familiar toy from home is welcome. The four tower levels and the cattery's cat tree give a high-energy cat places to climb between meals.
Cost for a Balinese stay
One cat is $35 a night on the 2026 rates, so four nights is 4 x $35 = $140 and a week is 7 x $35 = $245. A second cat from the same home sharing the condo is $30 a night. Check-out is by 11:30 AM, with pick-up windows from 7:30 to 11:30 AM and 2:00 to 5:00 PM.
Health and daily care
The CFA says Balinese can inherit some Siamese-linked conditions, with crossed eyes and tail kinks listed as minor issues. Share your cat's history at booking. Medications are given at no extra charge, and the house pate plus chicken-and-rice kibble is free, or bring your own.