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Applehead Siamese vs Siamese Cat: Pictures, Differences, & Which to Choose

Brooke Billingsley

By Brooke Billingsley


The Siamese is easily one of the most popular cat breeds, often ranking in the top five most popular cat breeds due to its talkative and personable nature. If you’ve spent time around Siamese lovers, you may have heard people referencing Applehead Siamese cats.

The Applehead Siamese is a variety of Siamese referred to as the more traditional Siamese variety. It varies slightly from the modern type of Siamese cat, but the differences are almost exclusively in the appearance of the cats. If you’ve ever found yourself confused about the differences between the Siamese cat and the Applehead Siamese, keep reading to learn more.

Visual Differences

Applehead Siamese vs Siamese Cat
Image Credit: Left: Applehead Siamese: Witsawat.S, Shutterstock | Right: Siamese Cat: Andreas Lischka, Pixabay

At a Glance

Applehead Siamese
  • Origin: Thailand
  • Size: 8–12 inches, 6–18 pounds
  • Lifespan: 10–15 years
  • Domesticated?: Yes
Siamese Cat
  • Origin: Thailand
  • Size: 8–10 inches, 6–14 pounds
  • Lifespan: 10–15 years
  • Domesticated?: Yes

Applehead Siamese Overview

applehead siamese cat
Image Credit: Witsawat.S, Shutterstock

Characteristics & Appearance

The Applehead Siamese is considered by many to be the traditional Siamese cat, although some dispute this. These cats have a stocky, muscular build, and they can be quite athletic. They usually have winning personalities and are often loyal, loving personalities. They can be talkative, and their meow has been compared to a human baby crying.

They have thick, short necks and tails than the lankier Siamese cat, and are larger and bulkier overall. They are available in the same color variations. These cats are all born solid white and begin developing their points within the first few weeks of life.

Applehead Siamese cats have rounded heads that lack the angulations of the modern Siamese cat, giving them their name. They are intelligent cats that love the company of humans and will often show off playfully to get attention.

applehead siamese cat
Image Credit: woff, Shutterstock

Uses

Like most cats, the Applehead Siamese is primarily kept for companionship purposes. However, these athletic, trainable cats can also be used for activities like feline agility coursing. They can be leash trained and can be good companions outside of the house since they are laid back and not likely to spook easily.

Siamese Cat Overview

siamese cat lying on grass outdoor
Image Credit: rihaij, Pixabay

Characteristics & Appearance

The Siamese cat is also sometimes called the modern Siamese. There is also a variety called the Wedgehead Siamese, thanks to its head’s angular, wedge-like shape. This is a selectively bred version of the modern Siamese that is often considered the most extreme form of the breed. These cats look similar to Oriental Shorthair cats and have long, lanky limbs, although their features may not be as dramatic and oversized as those of the Oriental.

Non-Wedgehead modern Siamese cats still have a slightly angular, wedge-like shape to their face and head. The nose comes to a point, and the ears are more wideset than the Applehead Siamese. Some people consider these to be the original Siamese cat due to art that has been found in Thailand, although it’s difficult to say if this art is a stylized representation of the breed.

The modern Siamese cat is leaner and more elongated than the Applehead Siamese, with a much longer tail. Overall, though, the modern Siamese is smaller than the Applehead Siamese. Although lean, the Siamese is a muscular, athletic cat. They have a similar temperament to the Applehead Siamese and have a great love for the company of humans. They come in various pointed colors but are born solid white.

Like the Applehead Siamese, the Siamese cat is vocal and loves to talk. While the Applehead Siamese’s meow has been compared to a newborn baby’s cry, the Wedgehead and modern Siamese’s meow is slightly deeper and with more of a honking tone.

siamese cat
Image Credit: Andreas Lischka, Pixabay

Uses

Like the Applehead Siamese, the Siamese cat is athletic and capable of sports, although its primary purpose is companionship. The more extreme Wedgehead Siamese cats tend to be prone to more health problems than other breed varieties, so these cats may not be good picks for sports and activities.

What Are the Differences Between Applehead Siamese & Siamese Cats?

The main notable differences between the Applehead Siamese and the Siamese cat are their appearances, namely face and head shape. Both are intelligent, loving cats that enjoy spending time with people.

However, it’s important to understand that some varieties may be more prone to serious health conditions. The Wedgehead Siamese is most likely to develop serious medical issues. In general, Siamese cats, including Applehead Siamese, are prone to kidney and heart disease. However, good breeders screen for these issues and don’t breed cats that carry certain genetic conditions. Other conditions that Siamese, especially Wedgehead Siamese, seem to be prone to are dental diseases and respiratory problems.

Which Breed Is Right For You?

Both varieties of Siamese are lovely cats that make excellent companions. They are fond of people and form tight-knit bonds with their families. However, the look of the more modern Siamese cat is not for everyone, especially the Wedgehead Siamese. They are more prone to medical conditions that can become expensive, especially as the cat ages. It’s essential to look for a reputable breeder who does all recommended health testing before breeding their cats. This will help you find the healthiest cat that is a good representation of its breed.

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Featured Image Credit: Left: Applehead siamese cat: woff, Shutterstock | Right: Siamese cat: rihaij, Pixabay

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