Burmese
The Burmese is a charismatic breed with a sleek, muscular body and expressive golden eyes. These people-oriented cats are playful, affectionate, and known for their dog-like devotion to their families.
About the Burmese
The Burmese cat originated in Burma (now Myanmar) and was developed as a breed in America starting with a cat named Wong Mau brought to San Francisco in 1930. Through careful breeding, the distinctive Burmese type was established.
Burmese are medium-sized cats that are surprisingly heavy for their size – they’re often called “bricks wrapped in silk” due to their compact, muscular bodies. Their short, satiny coat comes in colors including sable (rich brown), champagne, blue, and platinum.
These cats are known for their outgoing, people-oriented personalities. They’re highly social and form strong bonds with their families. They’re often described as “Velcro cats” for their tendency to follow their owners everywhere and participate in all activities.
Burmese remain playful well into adulthood and are intelligent enough to learn tricks and play fetch. They’re vocal but have softer voices than Siamese. They don’t do well alone and often benefit from having another cat companion when their owners are away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Burmese cats are very people-oriented and could be considered clingy by some standards. They want to be with their owners constantly, following them around and participating in activities. If you want an independent cat, Burmese may not be the best choice.
Burmese cats typically get along very well with dogs. Their confident, social nature makes them good companions for friendly canines. They're often bold enough to establish relationships with dogs and may even become playmates.
Burmese cats are moderately vocal – they communicate with their owners but aren't as loud as Siamese. They have a distinctive, raspy voice and will "talk" to express their needs. They're not usually excessively noisy.
Burmese cats typically live 12-18 years, though many live into their late teens or even twenties. They're generally healthy cats. Regular vet care helps ensure a long, healthy life.
Burmese can be prone to certain conditions including diabetes, hypokalemia (potassium deficiency), and cranial deformities in some lines. They may also be susceptible to gingivitis. Reputable breeders screen for genetic issues.