Are Birman/Siamese crosses risky?

M
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Hi everyone,

I’m due to meet some Birman cross Siamese kittens for a potential adoption, but I’m wondering about the risks of this mix: are they more prone to developing health problems? Do breeders actually practise this kind of crossbreeding? Or should these 'matings' be avoided at all costs, in which case I’ll back out.

Thanks for your help.

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    • M
    Miaou2020 Icon representing the flag French
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    Thanks. You’re starting to make me second-guess myself. But no matter how much I look, in Paris, the prices for pedigrees are rarely under £850, and crossbreeds are sometimes even more expensive than this one. I’ve also got a viewing lined up for some pedigree Birmans (GCCF registered), on sale for about £1,000.

    Here are the crossbreeds; I just love their cute little faces...

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Why not think about adopting a kitten through a site like CatChat? There are loads of Siamese and others, both crossbreeds and mixes. Almost every animal rescue in the UK is listed on there (or near enough!), and you’ll also have the happiness of knowing you’ve done a lovely thing by giving a cat a second chance.

    https://www.catchat.org/index.php/adopt-a-cat

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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    Around £470 for a little crossbreed? That’s a total rip-off. For that price, you could find a pedigree kitten for only a tiny bit more, or even the same price, from a reputable breeder who has registered the litter with the GCCF—a purebred with all the health guarantees.

    Keep in mind that a crossbreed kitten, even from two lovely breeds, is still considered a moggie. I think that’s an awful lot to pay for a little moggie.

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    M
    Miaou2020 Icon representing the flag French
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    Thanks, that’s a relief. It’s a private seller, and they’re asking for about £470 each, including vaccinations and microchipping. The dad is a Birman and the mum is a tortie Siamese, but the kittens have really taken after their dad. Do you think that’s a bit too expensive?
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    Anonymous user Icon representing the flag French
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    No, it’s absolutely not dangerous; if anything, it’s actually quite beneficial for cats. Crossbreeds are often hardier, and certain breeds are crossed with others from time to time—for instance, to get a Colourpoint Persian, they were crossed with Siamese cats to bring in some fresh blood. On the other hand, if a breeder is trying to sell one to you, it’s a bit of a scam. At most, they should only be charging you for the cost of the vaccinations and microchipping, which is a legal requirement. No matter how lovely a little crossbreed is, it simply can’t be sold as a pedigree cat. Otherwise, there are no downsides at all, and I’m sure they’ll turn out to be lovely little kittens.
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