Burmese Cat Breed Information

The Burmese cat is a captivating breed renowned for its muscular build, silky coat, and mesmerising golden eyes. Originating from Burma (now Myanmar), these cats have an insatiable need for human companionship, making them paws-itively affectionate and people-oriented. Burmese cats are full of energy and playfulness, keeping their kitten-like enthusiasm well into adulthood – like little furry bundles of joy that never grow up!

Their short, glossy coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance but high-reward feline friend. Highly intelligent and endlessly curious, Burmese cats love interactive play and puzzle toys. They thrive as indoor companions, where they can safely bask in their human’s love and adoration. If you’re looking for a devoted, playful, and utterly charming feline, the Burmese is the cat’s whiskers!

Quick Facts About Burmese Breed

Burmese Breed History and Origins

The Burmese breed has a rich history that traces back to a single cat named Wong Mau, who was brought from Burma to the United States in the 1930s. Wong Mau was initially believed to be a Siamese cat, but her unique dark brown coat indicated that she was something different. She was bred with a Siamese, and the resulting kittens led to the establishment of the Burmese breed.

Breeders carefully selected for the distinctive dark brown coat, muscular build, and golden eyes that define the breed today. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized the Burmese breed in 1936. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, including a period of suspension due to crossbreeding concerns, the Burmese cat has persevered and is now a beloved breed around the world.

Originated from Burma with a cat named Wong Mau
Established in the United States in the 1930s
Bred to create a distinctive dark brown coat
Recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in 1936

Understanding the Burmese Temperament

Burmese cats are known for their affectionate and social nature, forming strong bonds with their human families. They thrive on attention and interaction, often following their owners around the house and seeking out opportunities for cuddles. Burmese cats are also highly intelligent and playful, enjoying interactive play and puzzle toys. They retain their kitten-like enthusiasm well into adulthood, remaining active and curious throughout their lives.

While they can be vocal, their meows are often described as soft and sweet. Burmese cats are adaptable to various living situations but do best in homes where they receive plenty of attention and companionship. Their loving and engaging personalities make them wonderful additions to any family.

Affectionate and social
Form strong bonds with human families
Highly intelligent and playful
Retain kitten-like enthusiasm
Adaptable to various living situations

Key Characteristics of Burmese Cats

Burmese cats are small to medium in size, with a muscular and compact build. Males typically weigh between 4.5 to 5.4 kg (10 to 12 lbs), while females weigh between 3.6 to 4.5 kg (8 to 10 lbs).

Their most distinctive feature is their short, glossy coat, which has a satin-like texture. Burmese cats come in a variety of colours, including sable (dark brown), chocolate, blue, and lilac. Their eyes are typically golden or yellow-gold, adding to their captivating appearance. They have a rounded head with a slightly rounded muzzle and medium-sized ears.

Overall, their physical characteristics combine to create an elegant and athletic appearance that sets them apart from other breeds.

Size: Small to medium, with a compact and muscular build
Weight: Males: 4.5 – 5.4 kg (10 – 12 lbs); Females: 3.6 – 4.5 kg (8 – 10 lbs)
Coat: Short, glossy, and satin-like in texture
Colours: Sable (dark brown), chocolate, blue, and lilac
Eyes: Large, expressive, and golden or yellow-gold
Head Shape: Rounded with a slightly rounded muzzle and medium-sized ears

Common Burmese Cat Health Issues

While generally healthy, Burmese cats may be prone to certain genetic conditions.

Glaucoma: A condition that affects the optic nerve, so regular eye exams are essential.
Hypokalaemia: A deficiency of potassium in the blood, which can cause muscle weakness.
Diabetes mellitus: A metabolic disorder that affects blood sugar levels.

Responsible breeders screen their cats for these potential health issues to minimise risks. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet and regular exercise can further help mitigate these risks.

Burmese Compatibility with Families and Other Pets

Burmese cats make excellent family pets due to their affectionate nature and playful disposition. They generally get along well with children and other pets, making them suitable for multi-pet households. Their high intelligence means they require mental stimulation and interactive play, thriving in environments where they receive plenty of attention and engagement. However, their vocal nature might not suit those who prefer a quieter home environment.

Excellent family pets
Good with children and other pets
Require mental stimulation and attention
May not suit those preferring quiet homes

Should Burmese's Be Indoor Cats?

Burmese cats are best suited as indoor cats due to several factors. As indoor cats, they are protected from outdoor dangers such as traffic, predators, and infectious diseases. Additionally, Burmese cats are highly prized for their distinctive appearance, making them vulnerable to theft. By keeping them indoors, owners can ensure their safety and monitor their health more closely. For cats that enjoy the outdoors, supervised access to a secure garden or a catio can provide a safe and enriching experience.

Best suited for indoor living
Protected from outdoor dangers
Vulnerable to theft
Supervised outdoor access is an option

Essential Grooming Tips for Burmese Cats

One of the best things about Burmese cats (apart from their endless affection) is their low-maintenance grooming needs. Their short, fine coat doesn’t tangle, so they only require a weekly brush to keep them looking glossy and sleek.

Brushing: Once a week with a soft brush to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils.
Bathing: Rarely needed—these self-cleaning machines keep themselves spotless!
Nail Trimming: Every couple of weeks to prevent scratching incidents.
Ear Cleaning: Check for wax build-up and wipe gently if needed.
Dental Care: Regular teeth brushing helps prevent dental issues.

Grooming is also a purr-fect bonding time with your feline friend – expect plenty of head bumps and contented purring!

Proper Nutrition and Feeding for Burmese

A balanced diet is crucial for Burmese cats to maintain their health and well-being. High-quality cat food, whether wet or dry, should be the foundation of their diet, providing essential nutrients and vitamins.

Portion control is important to prevent obesity, as Burmese cats can be prone to weight gain if overfed. Fresh water should always be available to ensure adequate hydration. Occasional treats can be given in moderation, but should not make up a significant portion of their diet.

It’s also essential to choose cat food appropriate for their age and activity level, as kittens, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs.

High-quality cat food (wet or dry)
Portion control to prevent obesity
Fresh water always available
Occasional treats in moderation
Choose food appropriate for age and activity level

Interesting Facts About Burmese Cats

Burmese cats are known for their dog-like loyalty and often follow their owners around the house.
They have a distinctive “brick-like” feel when held, due to their muscular build.
Burmese cats retain their kitten-like energy and playfulness well into adulthood.
The sable (dark brown) coat colour is the original and most well-known colour for Burmese cats.
Burmese cats have a higher life expectancy compared to some other breeds, often living into their late teens or early twenties.

Burmese Breed FAQ's

Are Burmese cats good with children?

Yes, Burmese cats are generally good with children. They are playful, affectionate, and enjoy interactive play.

Do Burmese cats shed a lot?

Burmese cats have low shedding tendencies due to their short, fine coats. Regular brushing can further minimise shedding.

Are Burmese cats vocal?

Yes, Burmese cats are known for being vocal. They communicate with soft, sweet voices and enjoy “chatting” with their owners.

How long do Burmese cats live?

With proper care, Burmese cats typically live between 16 to 18 years, and some may even live longer.

Do Burmese cats require special grooming?

No, Burmese cats have low grooming needs. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient to maintain their glossy coat.

Similar Cat Breeds

Bombay: Share similar body type and temperament but with black coats and copper eyes.
Siamese: Share high energy levels and vocal communication
Tonkinese: Share Burmese traits, more variations in colour
Oriental Shorthair: Similar sleek body type, but with a wider range of colours
British Shorthair: Share similar sleek body type, but with a wider range of colours

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The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.

About Cat Mad

Cat mad

The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.

About Cat Mad

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