Burmese Cat Breed Profile: Origins, Personality & Care
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Cat at a Glance
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Personality | Affectionate, playful and loyal |
| Life expectancy | 12–18 years |
| Weight | Up to 14 lb |
| Coat & Colors | Short, glossy coat in sable, champagne, blue, platinum and other solid hues |
| Energy level | High |
| Affection level | High |
| Friendliness | High |
| Shedding | Low |
| Grooming needs | Minimal |
Overview
The Burmese cat combines a sleek, satin‑like coat with a muscular body and a playful, almost dog‑like demeanor. They are renowned for forming strong bonds with their humans and following them from room to room. Burmese cats remain kittenish well into adulthood and enjoy interactive play, making them ideal for active households.
History & Origins
Legends from Myanmar (formerly Burma) tell of temple cats with deep brown coats and bright eyes. The modern Burmese breed traces back to a single cat named Wong Mau, brought to the United States in 1930. Dr. Joseph Thompson bred Wong Mau with Siamese cats, creating kittens that were darker and more muscular. From these early litters, the Burmese breed was established. The breed was later recognized by cat registries in North America and Europe, with variations such as the European Burmese.
Price Range
A pedigreed Burmese kitten generally costs US $800–$1,800 depending on lineage and color. Rescue organizations and shelters occasionally have Burmese cats available at a lower cost.
Characteristics
Burmese cats are medium‑sized with rounded heads, short muzzles and expressive golden eyes. Their coats are short, fine and glossy, lying close to the body. Colours range from the traditional sable to champagne, blue and platinum. Despite their compact size, they can feel surprisingly heavy when held due to their muscular build.
Personality & Behavior
Burmese cats are active, curious and sociable. They love to play fetch, learn tricks and follow their people around the house. Females may be more extroverted, while males are typically laid‑back lap lovers. Both sexes have soft voices and may “talk” to you. Because of their social nature, they prefer not to be left alone for long periods and often do well with another feline companion.
Care
Grooming requirements are minimal—weekly brushing or wiping with a damp cloth keeps their sleek coat shiny. Provide plenty of toys, climbing structures and interactive games to keep them engaged. Burmese cats appreciate vertical spaces like cat trees or shelves to observe their surroundings. Dental care and nail trimming are important, and regular veterinary visits will help catch any issues early.
Health Concerns
While generally healthy, Burmese cats can be predisposed to certain conditions such as muscle weakness (familial hypokalemic polymyopathy), cranial deformities, glaucoma, hyperesthesia, kidney stones and obesity. Working with responsible breeders who test for these disorders is essential. Maintaining a proper diet and encouraging regular exercise helps keep them fit.
Adoption & Breeders
When choosing a breeder, ask about genetic testing and health guarantees. Rescue groups dedicated to Burmese cats may have adults or kittens needing homes. If you enjoy the Burmese’s friendly, interactive nature, you might also like the Siamese Cat Breed Profile, another talkative and people‑oriented breed.
