Burmese Cat Breed
Cat Facts

The Burmese Cat Breed could be described as a 'little military tank draped in glossy satin'. This is a dominant cat that is also known as the Rajah cat.

Whilst the Burmese may have its roots in Burma, it was developed in the USA and today this domestic cat is bred around the world.

It is no surprise that people passionate about the cat breed would continue to develop the breed resulting in additional colors and other physical differences. The Burmese has two recognized breed standards - the American Type and British-European Type.

The American Type Burmese Cat Breed

This cat has a medium-sized body, well developed, with a substantial bone and muscle structure. The general appearance of the cat is compact and strong, with a rounded chest. The cat is surprisingly heavier than their size would have you believe. Its tail is of medium length and straight and its legs are in proportion to its body.

American-type Burmese have rounded, broad heads. Face and cheeks are also round, complimented by a round, short muzzle, strong jaw and a round firm chin. They do have a visible nose break. Ears are set well apart, medium in size, broad-based with rounded tips. Those hypnotic eyes are...you guessed it - round, large and set far apart. The color is yellow to gold and has a deep brilliant color. Kittens are born with blue eyes that turn gold at about 2 - 3 months.

Their coat is short and lies close to the body. It has a lustrous satin-like feel, fine with a very distinctive glossy look. The coat should be an even-color and the underbelly is generally lighter than the back, but the shading from top to belly should have gradual shading. Kittens only show their mature color at about 3 months.

Only 4 colors are recognized in the American-type. The original Sable (which is dark brown cat), Champagne (warm honey-beige), Blue (medium blue with fawn undertone) and lastly Platinum (pale, silvery gray).

Other colors are considered Dilutes which is a separate category under the Burmese Division for Dilute variants.

The British - European Burmese Cat Breed

The British Burmese has a slender, less compact elegant body, somewhere between the Siamese and the British Shorthair; so in other words not an elongated body or a short body. Their tails are straight and medium in length, but are thick at the base and the tip of the tail is rounded. This variety has well proportioned, slightly slender legs and oval paws.

The head is considerably different in the British version, being triangular or wedge-shaped. Cheek bones are prominent, there is a clear nose break and the muzzle is blunt. Ears are set well apart, medium in size, broad-based with rounded tips. Their eyes have a rounded lower line and the upper line has a slant towards the nose. The eye-color is yellow to gold and has a deep brilliant color. Kittens are born with blue eyes that turn gold at about 2 - 3 months.

Their coat characteristics are the same as the American type Burmese cat breed.

The British standards accept the following colors: Brown (Sable), Blue, Chocolate, Lilac, Red, Cream and Tortoiseshell.

If you are in any doubt and need to have a thorough understanding of the standards pertinent to your country, then contact the all breeds of cat governing body, association, or federation in your country.

Burmese Cat Breed Personality

We have asked many owners about the temperament of their Burmese Cat. Temperaments and personality differ from cat to cat - genetics and 'upbringing' all play a part. It was probably for this reason that we found conflicting views.

The Burmese has been described as extrovert, demanding, energetic and exuberant. They are intelligent, have strong personalities and can be stubborn. They are fearless and brave. Burmese cats can be dominant cats who like to express this 'power' with other cats, but then again, some thrive on the companionship of other cats.

Mischievous cats, who love to romp in the safety of an enclosed garden, but are equally at home in an apartment provided they are not left alone for long. They do not tolerate solitude and their loud husky voice will communicate exactly how they feel. It is a very talkative cat but their voices tend to be softer and less harsh than the Siamese cat

The Burmese cat breed is also an affectionate, loving cat. They adore their owners and love the company of their people. Playful and entertaining - that's the Burmese Cat!

Even though they are busy, active cats, they will always find the time for a cuddle and the comfort of a warm lap. These intelligent cats are very active and playful and bore very easily, so it's important to provide them with loads of toys and a companion.

Burmese make excellent mothers, whilst dads don't mind doing a bit of babysitting either!

The long and short of it is that they are wonderful companions and you'll never have a dull moment.

Burmese Cat Breed Information

How well do they adapt to children?

They are child-friendly cats and make wonderful companions for kids. Younger children must be taught how to handle cats. Tail and ear pulling is not considered play and most cats will react to rough play.

Is the Burmese Cat Animal Friendly?

They are, but they prefer human company. They don't really appreciate the company of other cats.

The Ideal Home for these cats

The Burmese cat breed adapts well to apartment living, but like many cats, they do love the freedom of an enclosed, safe and escape-proof garden. They prefer a home where they have companionship a great deal of the time - they do not enjoy solitude!

Caring for Your Cat

The Burmese Cat Breed is a Shorthaired cat and as such, a low maintenance cat breed. It does shed frequently, so some grooming is necessary. Only subtle grooming is required. Using a grooming glove or a rubber brush once or twice a week will remove all dead hair without harming the coat.

Bathing is not often required. A Show Cat should be bathed a week before show day to allow the coat to recover its natural oils. Our cat care pages will assist you with all aspects of cat grooming - dental, eyes, fur and claws.

Cat Health Concerns and Genetic Issues associated with Burmese cats

Whilst they are generally healthy cats, some breeding lines may suffer from health problems or be more prone to the following conditions:

• Diabetes
• Flat-chested kittens
• Glaucoma
• Hypokalaemic myopathy
• Respiratory problems.
• The American type carries a gene responsible for severe craniofacial deformity which is fatal. Kittens generally die at birth.

Cat insurance should be considered, not just for the Burmese, but for all cats. Please do vaccinate you cat against feline infectious diseases.

Cat Nutrition and Dietary Requirements for Burmese

Burmese require no special diet. Our cat nutrition pages will provide some guidance on cat food options. Clean, fresh water must be provided daily.

The average Weight of Burmese cats

Both types of Burmese have the same average weight which is between 3.5 - 6.5 kg (7.7 - 14.3 lbs)

Life Expectancy of Burmese cats

Your cat has a life span of about 15 years - this is the average age and is dependant of many factors such as diet, exercise, annual vaccinations and the general care of your cat. Take a look at 'How long do cats live?' for more great info regarding life expectancy.

Related cat information:

Burmese cats - history and origin

Burmese cat pictures - a photo gallery

Burmese Cats for Sale - A list of International Cat Breeders

Pictures of Cats Courtesy of:

© Norma Hush of Visual Concepts - www.visualconcepts.co.za

Top: Brown Burmese, Owner: Jane Goble and Alison Renwick

Center: Mela Crystle Rose, Chocolate girl, Breeder/Owner: Jane Goble

© Theresa Fouche Photography

Bottom: Sp Ch Onaoan Maid By Eve, Cream Burmese: Breeders: Alison Renwick of Ally's Cats and Jane Goble ; Owner: Alison Renwick