Burmilla Cat Breed Information

The Burmilla is an elegant silver cat with distinctive “eye makeup” resulting from Burmese and Chinchilla Persian crosses. This breed is known for its affectionate and playful nature, combining the best traits of both parent breeds.

Burmillas are social cats that enjoy spending time with their human families, often following them around the house and seeking out opportunities for cuddles. Their short to medium coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring occasional brushing to keep it looking its best. Burmillas thrive as indoor companions, where they can safely interact with their beloved humans. With their combination of beauty, energy, and affectionate nature, Burmillas make wonderful additions to loving homes.

Quick Facts About Burmilla Breed

Burmilla Breed History and Origins

The Burmilla breed is a relatively new breed, originating in the United Kingdom in 1981. It was created accidentally when a Chinchilla Persian and a Burmese cat mated, resulting in kittens with a unique silver coat and striking “eye makeup.”

These kittens were so captivating that breeders decided to develop them into a new breed. The name “Burmilla” is a combination of “Burmese” and “Chinchilla,” reflecting the breed’s heritage. The breed gained recognition from cat fancier associations in the 1990s and has since grown in popularity around the world. The Burmilla is a testament to the beauty that can arise from unexpected pairings.

Created in the United Kingdom in 1981
Result of an accidental mating between a Chinchilla Persian and Burmese cat
Named “Burmilla” combining parent breeds
Recognised by cat associations in the 1990s

Understanding the Burmilla Temperament

Burmillas are known for their affectionate and playful nature, inheriting the best traits of both Burmese and Persian cats. They are social cats that enjoy spending time with their human families, often following them around the house and seeking out opportunities for cuddles.

Burmillas are also intelligent and curious, enjoying interactive play and puzzle toys. While they have moderate energy levels, they are not overly demanding, adapting well to various living situations.

Their low vocalisation adds to their appeal, as they communicate softly and sweetly, without excessive meowing. The Burmilla temperament is a perfect blend of affection, playfulness, and calmness, making them a delightful addition to any household.

Affectionate and social
Intelligent and curious
Moderate energy levels
Low vocalisation
Playful and calm

Key Characteristics of Burmilla Cats

Burmillas are medium-sized cats with a muscular and elegant build. Their most distinctive feature is their silver coat, which comes in a variety of shades, including silver shaded, silver tipped, and silver tabby. They have a short to medium coat that is soft and silky to the touch.

The breed is further distinguished by their striking “eye makeup,” which consists of a dark outline around their eyes and nose. Burmillas have a rounded head with medium-sized ears and large, expressive eyes that are typically green or gold. Overall, their physical characteristics combine to create an elegant and captivating appearance that sets them apart from other breeds.

Medium size
Silver coat (shaded, tipped, tabby)
Short to medium coat
Distinctive “eye makeup”
Green or gold eyes
Rounded head with medium-sized ears

Common Burmilla Cat Health Issues

While generally healthy, Burmillas may be prone to certain genetic conditions. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a condition that causes cysts to form in the kidneys, has been reported in some Burmilla lines, so regular veterinary check-ups, including kidney screenings, are essential.

Burmillas can also be susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a form of heart disease. Responsible breeders screen their cats for these potential health issues to minimise the risk of passing them on to future generations.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet and regular exercise can further help mitigate these risks.

Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential

Burmilla Compatibility with Families and Other Pets

Burmillas make excellent family pets due to their gentle nature and adaptability. They are well-suited to households with children, as they are patient and tolerant, enjoying interactive play and affection.

They also tend to get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cats, especially when introduced at a young age. Their moderate energy levels and low vocalisation make them adaptable to various living situations, whether it’s a bustling family home or a quieter apartment.

Burmillas thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and love, forming strong bonds with their human companions and becoming cherished members of the family.

Excellent family pets
Patient and tolerant with children
Good with other pets
Adaptable to various living situations
Thrive on attention and love

Should Burmilla's Be Indoor Cats?

Burmillas are best suited as indoor cats. Indoor cats are protected from outdoor dangers such as traffic, predators, and infectious diseases. Additionally, Burmillas 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 Burmilla Cats

he Burmilla’s plush, silky coat may look effortlessly fabulous, but it still needs a bit of TLC to keep it in tip-top shape. Luckily, their short to semi-long fur is low-maintenance compared to some long-haired divas of the cat world. A weekly brush with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt will help remove loose hairs and keep their coat looking sleek and shiny—because a Burmilla should always be dressed to impress!

Since these cats have a delicate undercoat, they may experience seasonal shedding, especially in spring and autumn. During these times, a twice-weekly grooming session will help keep furballs (both on your cat and in your home!) under control.

Grooming at a Glance:

✔ Weekly brushing (twice a week during shedding season)
✔ Occasional ear cleaning and eye wiping (for lighter coats)
✔ Regular claw trims to keep them from getting too scratch-happy
✔ Dental care—because a winning smile is part of the charm

With just a little pampering, your Burmilla will stay as fur-bulous as ever—because even low-maintenance cats deserve the royal treatment!

Proper Nutrition and Feeding for Burmilla

A balanced diet is crucial for Burmillas 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 Burmillas 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 Burmilla Cats

Burmillas were created accidentally in the United Kingdom.
Their name is a combination of “Burmese” and “Chinchilla,” reflecting their parent breeds.
Burmillas are known for their distinctive “eye makeup,” which consists of a dark outline around their eyes and nose.
They come in a variety of silver coat colours, including shaded, tipped, and tabby.
Burmillas have a playful and affectionate nature, making them wonderful companions for people of all ages.

Burmilla Breed FAQ's

Are Burmillas good with children?

Yes, Burmillas are generally good with children. They are patient and tolerant, enjoying interactive play.

Do Burmillas shed a lot?

Burmillas have low shedding tendencies due to their short to medium coats. Regular brushing can further minimise shedding.

Are Burmillas vocal?

Burmillas are known for being relatively quiet cats. They communicate with soft, sweet voices and are not known for excessive meowing.

How long do Burmillas live?

With proper care, Burmillas typically live between 7 to 15 years.

Do Burmillas require special grooming?

No, Burmillas have low grooming needs. Weekly brushing is usually sufficient to maintain their silky coat.

Similar Cat Breeds

Burmese: Share similar build and loving temperament.
Chinchilla Persian: Share similar coloring and gentle nature
Asian: British Breed, Similar look, different range of colours
British Shorthair: Share similar build and laid-back temperaments
Russian Blue: Share similar colour and sleek body type

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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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