The Burmese cat, with its striking golden eyes and sleek satin coat, is a breed renowned for its social, affectionate nature, and muscular, compact build. Offering a unique blend of intelligence, playfulness, and warmth, this breed forms strong bonds with families, making for an extraordinary companion.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Burmese |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristic | Social, affectionate, playful |
| Life Span | 16 – 18 years |
| Build | Muscular, compact |
| Average Weight | 4-6 kg (8-13 lbs) |
| Average Height | 10-12 inches |
| Coat Length | Short |
| Coat Colors | Sable, champagne, blue, and platinum |
| Coat Pattern | Solid |
| Eye Colors | Gold to yellow |
| Hypoallergenic | No |
| Country of Origin | Burma (Myanmar) |
Physical Description
The Burmese breed boasts a notably solid physique that belies its medium size. Their well-defined musculature gives them a heftiness unexpected for their stature, typically ranging from 10 to 12 inches in height and weighing between 4 to 6 kg. The breed’s hallmark is its short, fine, and glossy coat that comes in rich colors like sable, champagne, blue, and platinum, all with a characteristic sheen.
Their ears are broad at the base, rounded at the tips, and set well apart on a rounded head, accentuating their wide, expressive eyes that range from gold to yellow. The difference between male and female appearances is subtle, with males often being slightly larger with a more pronounced muscular frame compared to females.
Behavior and Temperament of the Burmese
Burmese cats are adored for their extroverted personalities. They are deeply social, often thriving on interaction with humans and other pets. Their playful, kitten-like demeanor extends well into adulthood, with an intelligence that makes them quick learners and engaging companions. Burmese are vocal cats, known for their soft, sweet meows that seem to express their thoughts and desires earnestly.
History and Origin
The gorgeous Burmese cat has its roots in Burma, modern-day Myanmar, where it was considered a lucky and sacred temple cat. The breed as known today was developed in the United States and Britain, with the first Burmese, a small walnut-brown cat named Wong Mau, being brought to America in the 1930s. Dr. Joseph Thompson of San Francisco is credited with recognizing the distinctiveness of Wong Mau and subsequent breeding, which later developed the Burmese breed.
Burmese Cat Care
Burmese cats are relatively easy to care for in terms of grooming, thanks to their short coats that require minimal brushing to maintain their gleaming appearance. They are active and playful, needing a fair amount of daily playtime. Indoor environments are preferred for Burmese cats, largely due to their trusting and fearless nature which can lead them into trouble outdoors. They cherish climbing structures and interactive toys that challenge their intelligence.
Common Health Problems
While Burmese cats are generally robust and healthy, they are predisposed to certain health conditions, including:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) – A heart condition that is commonly found in cats, marked by the thickening of the heart’s walls.
- Hypokalemia – Characterized by low blood potassium levels, this condition can lead to muscle weakness and other related health issues.
- Craniofacial Defect – A genetic defect sometimes seen in newborn kittens, affecting the structure of the face and head.
- Obesity – Given their affectionate and often sedentary lifestyle, Burmese cats can be prone to weight gain, emphasizing the need for controlled nutrition and regular play.
Where to Adopt or Buy Burmese
Burmese cats can be adopted from breed-specific rescues or purchased from reputable breeders. It’s crucial to research thoroughly before adoption or purchase to ensure the health and well-being of the cat. Prices can range from $600 to $1000, varying based on the cat’s pedigree and the breeder’s reputation.
Diet and Nutrition
Burmese cats thrive on a diet rich in animal protein and fats. Premium commercial cat foods that meet these nutritional standards are suitable. Treats should be given in moderation, and a consistent supply of fresh water is essential. Consult with a vet regarding any supplements, as each cat’s needs can differ.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the Burmese cat intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Siamese: Features striking blue eyes and a short, fine coat, known for their vocal nature and social disposition.
- Tonkinese: A cross between the Siamese and Burmese, offering playful personalities with intermediate features and coat patterns.
- Bombay: Resembles a miniature black panther with a sleek coat and copper eyes, affectionate and people-oriented.
- Oriental Short Hair: Known for a wide variety of colors and patterns, these cats have a svelte build and are highly intelligent and social.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about Burmese
What is special about Burmese cats?
Burmese cats are known for their affectionate nature, strong bond with humans, and playful disposition that lasts well into their adulthood.
Do Burmese cats shed a lot?
No, Burmese cats have short, low-maintenance coats that shed very little compared to other breeds.
Are Burmese cats high maintenance?
Though their social nature means they require regular interaction, in terms of grooming and health care, Burmese cats are not high maintenance.
Are Burmese cats cuddly?
Yes, Burmese cats are particularly cuddly, loving to snuggle up with their owners and often seeking out laps or warm nooks to cozy into.
Why can’t Burmese cats go outside?
While they can enjoy outdoor activities, it’s essential to supervise them due to their naive and overly trusting nature that may make them vulnerable outdoors.
Do Burmese cats like being held?
Burmese cats generally enjoy being held and are known for their love of physical affection.
Are male or female Burmese cats more affectionate?
Affection is more personality-dependent than gender-based, with both male and female Burmese cats capable of showing great affection.
Do Burmese cats need another cat?
Burmese cats do well with companionship, be it humans or other pets, due to their social nature.
Why are Burmese cats so heavy?
Burmese cats have a naturally muscular and compact body structure, which contributes to their unexpected heftiness for their size.
Do Burmese cats need baths?
Regular baths are not typically necessary for Burmese cats due to their short coats, but occasional bathing may be required if the cat becomes particularly dirty or greasy.