The Siamese cat had its origins in Thailand, formerly known as Siam, where they were highly valued by the people. They were once thought of as guards in Buddhist temples and other sacred places. 

From Thailand, the breed quickly gained popularity in other countries like the United Kingdom and the United States. It started with a simple gift from the American Consul in Bangkok to President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1878. 

Simultaneously, the British became fond of the Siamese through the Crystal Palace cat shows, where their beauty was fully unveiled. From then on, its popularity only soared higher.

Today, the breed continues to become part of households of officials and common folk. It’s slightly different from its older ancestor, the Thai Cat or Wichien Maat, but some have coined the two as Siamese.