Burmese
Breed Description

The Burmese cat takes its name from Burma (now Myanmar), reflecting the breed's Asian heritage and exotic origins. The breed name is pronounced "bur-MEEZ" and is used consistently across all major cat registries worldwide, including the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA), The International Cat Association (TICA), and international organizations. There are no significant alternate names or regional variations, though cat enthusiasts sometimes refer to them simply as "Burmese" or use the informal "Burm" as affectionate shorthand.

It's important to distinguish between American Burmese and European Burmese, which are recognized as separate breeds by some registries. The American Burmese, developed in the United States, has a stockier, more rounded appearance with a shorter muzzle and rounder eyes. The European Burmese (also called Foreign Burmese in some countries) has a more moderate, somewhat Oriental body type with a slightly longer face and almond-shaped eyes. In the United States, the CFA recognizes only the American type, while TICA recognizes both types as separate breeds. This distinction is primarily relevant for breeders and show competitors, as both types share the loving, people-oriented temperament that defines the breed.

The original foundation cat of the modern Burmese breed was named Wong Mau, a small brown cat brought from Burma to the United States in 1930. Some historical texts refer to early Burmese cats as "chocolate Siamese" or "brown Siamese" before the breed was formally recognized. The sable color (rich, warm brown) that characterized Wong Mau and early Burmese cats remains the most iconic and recognized color for the breed, often considered the "traditional" Burmese appearance even though many other colors are now accepted.

The Burmese is a medium-sized cat with a surprisingly substantial, muscular build that gives them considerable weight relative to their size. They're often called "bricks wrapped in silk" because their compact, heavy bodies are covered in the finest, most satin-like coat in the feline world. Females typically weigh 8-10 pounds, while males reach 10-12 pounds or more, but their weight feels deceptively heavy when you pick them up due to their dense musculature and solid bone structure.

The Burmese head is distinctly rounded with no flat planes, creating a soft, sweet expression. The American type has a particularly rounded head with full cheeks and a short, well-developed muzzle that gives the face an almost doll-like appearance. The eyes are large, rounded, and set wide apart, ranging in color from yellow to gold, with deeper gold preferred in show cats. The eyes are particularly expressive and contribute significantly to the breed's appealing, open facial expression. The ears are medium-sized, wide at the base with slightly rounded tips, set well apart and tilting slightly forward.

The body is compact and muscular with substantial bone structure, creating a cobby appearance that emphasizes power rather than length. The chest is rounded and strong, the back is level, and the overall impression is of solid, surprising weight in a moderate-sized package. Despite their substantial build, Burmese cats are remarkably athletic and agile, capable of impressive jumps and acrobatic play.

The coat is the Burmese's crowning glory—short, fine, satin-like, and lying close to the body with a glossy sheen that seems almost polished. The texture is unique, feeling like warm silk when stroked. The coat has minimal undercoat, contributing to its smooth, sleek appearance and easy care requirements. The original and most iconic Burmese color is sable (rich, warm brown that shades almost imperceptibly to a slightly lighter tone on the underparts). The CFA recognizes four colors in American Burmese: sable, champagne (warm honey beige), blue (soft blue-gray with warm fawn undertones), and platinum (pale silvery gray with fawn undertones). TICA and international registries recognize additional colors including red, cream, tortoiseshell variations, and various dilutions.

The legs are proportionate to the body—well-muscled with medium bone structure and neat, rounded paws. The tail is medium length, straight, and tapers to a rounded tip without being whip-like. The overall impression of the Burmese is one of compact strength, surprising weight, sleek beauty, and an expression that conveys both intelligence and sweetness.

The Burmese breed's modern history begins with a small, walnut-brown female cat named Wong Mau, brought from Burma (now Myanmar) to San Francisco in 1930 by Dr. Joseph Thompson, a retired Navy doctor. Wong Mau was unique—she had a brown coat unlike anything seen in American cat fancy at the time. Dr. Thompson, intrigued by her distinctive appearance, decided to establish a breeding program with the help of geneticists and cat breeders to determine if Wong Mau represented a new breed or was simply an unusual Siamese variant.

Wong Mau was bred to Tai Mau, a seal point Siamese, since no similar brown cats were available in the United States. The resulting kittens varied in color—some were beige-and-brown like their mother, some were seal point like their father, and some were a solid dark brown. This demonstrated that Wong Mau was likely a hybrid between a Siamese and an unknown solid-colored cat from Burma. By selectively breeding the darker kittens together, breeders established the foundation of the Burmese breed with its characteristic solid, rich brown (sable) coloring.

The breed's early development involved careful breeding programs in the 1930s and 1940s. Geneticists worked with breeders to understand the inheritance patterns of the Burmese coloring, determining that it was caused by a specific allele of the gene that produces the Siamese point pattern. The Burmese gene creates a subtle shading effect with darker color on the points (face, ears, legs, tail) but not the dramatic contrast seen in Siamese. The Cat Fanciers' Association first accepted Burmese for registration in 1936, and they achieved championship status in 1957, though the road to acceptance involved periods where the breed's registration was suspended due to concerns about excessive Siamese crossbreeding.

The development of different color varieties came gradually. The original sable color remained standard for many years, but spontaneous color mutations and careful breeding programs eventually produced champagne (called chocolate in some countries), blue, and platinum (lilac) colors by the 1970s and 1980s. These colors are now accepted in American Burmese by major registries. In Britain and Europe, breeders expanded the color palette even further, accepting red, cream, and tortoiseshell varieties, and also developed a different physical type with a more moderate, slightly Oriental build compared to the rounder American type.

This divergence in breeding goals led to the recognition of European Burmese as a separate breed by some registries in the 1990s, while American registries continued to focus on the original, rounder type exemplified by Wong Mau's descendants. Both types, however, share the defining Burmese temperament—people-oriented, affectionate, playful, and highly social. Today, the Burmese remains a popular breed worldwide, cherished not just for their beautiful appearance but primarily for their exceptional, dog-like devotion to their human families. The breed has maintained Wong Mau's legacy of companionship, combining exotic beauty with an irresistibly loving personality that has won hearts for nearly a century.

The Burmese temperament is extraordinary and often cited as the breed's most appealing characteristic. These cats are intensely people-oriented, forming deep bonds with their families that rival the devotion typically associated with dogs. They don't just tolerate human company—they crave it, actively seeking interaction and becoming deeply unhappy when left alone for extended periods. Burmese cats want to be wherever their people are, whether that's helping with computer work by lying on the keyboard, supervising meal preparation from the counter, or snuggling in bed at night.

Affection is the cornerstone of the Burmese personality. They're demonstratively loving, expressing their devotion through constant physical contact, gentle headbutts, prolonged purring sessions, and following their favorite people from room to room. Many Burmese cats will greet their owners at the door like dogs, meowing excitedly and demanding immediate attention. They're lap cats in the truest sense, though they're just as happy lying on your chest, shoulders, or curled against you in bed. This intense need for companionship means they're not ideal for people who work long hours away from home unless another pet provides company.

Playfulness is another defining trait that persists throughout their lives. Burmese cats maintain kitten-like enthusiasm well into their senior years, always ready for interactive games. They excel at fetch, enthusiastically retrieving toys and bringing them back for repeated throws. They love chase games, hunting toys, and anything that engages their natural athleticism. Their play style is energetic and sometimes acrobatic—they're impressive jumpers who think nothing of leaping to the top of bookcases or refrigerators. This playfulness requires commitment from owners to provide regular interactive play sessions.

Intelligence combined with curiosity makes Burmese cats engaging but sometimes challenging companions. They're problem-solvers who can figure out how to open cabinets, doors, and containers. They learn routines quickly and remember them, knowing exactly when meal times occur or when their favorite person typically comes home. Some Burmese can be trained to walk on leashes, perform tricks, or even use toilets instead of litter boxes. This intelligence means they need mental stimulation—puzzle toys, new experiences, and training sessions keep them content.

Socially, Burmese cats are extroverted and confident. They greet visitors with interest rather than hiding, assuming everyone who enters the home wants to meet them. They typically get along well with children, tolerating handling and play with patience. With other pets, they often seek companionship, particularly with other cats or cat-friendly dogs. Their social nature makes them excellent candidates for multi-pet households where they won't be left alone.

Vocally, Burmese cats are moderately talkative. They have soft, pleasant voices and will chat with their people about their day, announce hunger, or simply socialize through gentle conversation. They're not as insistently vocal as Siamese but are more talkative than many breeds. Their communication is part of their interactive nature—they expect responses and will persist until acknowledged. The Burmese temperament can be summarized as loving, playful, intelligent, social, and demanding of attention. They're not cats for people who want independent pets; they're for those who want constant, devoted companions who consider themselves full family members entitled to participate in all household activities.

Caring for a Burmese cat involves meeting their significant social and emotional needs alongside their relatively simple physical care requirements. The most important aspect of Burmese care is providing adequate companionship. These cats should not be left alone for long periods regularly; they thrive best in households where someone is home most of the time or where another pet provides company. If you work full days away from home, consider adopting two Burmese or pairing your Burmese with a compatible cat or dog to prevent loneliness and depression.

Interactive play is essential for Burmese cats' physical and mental well-being. Plan for at least two to three play sessions daily, each lasting 10-15 minutes, using toys that engage their hunting instincts. Feather wands, laser pointers (always ending on a physical toy they can catch), and fetch toys work wonderfully. Many Burmese love retrieving small balls or crumpled paper and will bring them back repeatedly. Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys provide mental stimulation and slow down eating. Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest and prevent boredom.

Environmental enrichment prevents destructive behavior born of boredom. Provide vertical spaces like cat trees or wall-mounted shelves for climbing and surveying territory. Window perches offering views of outdoor activity keep them entertained. Consider building or buying a catio (outdoor cat enclosure) if possible, allowing safe outdoor access. Burmese cats are intelligent and curious, so providing new experiences—rotating toys, hiding treats around the house, or even teaching tricks—keeps them mentally engaged.

Grooming requirements are minimal thanks to their short, satin coat. Weekly brushing with a soft rubber curry brush or grooming mitt removes loose hair and distributes skin oils, maintaining the coat's natural shine. Many Burmese enjoy being brushed and will purr contentedly during sessions. Bathing is rarely necessary; their coat stays clean naturally. Regular nail trims every two weeks prevent overgrowth and reduce potential furniture damage. Provide scratching posts or pads to satisfy natural scratching urges and help maintain claws.

Dental care is important for long-term health. Brush teeth 2-3 times weekly with cat-specific toothpaste, or daily if possible. Start dental care early to acclimate your Burmese to the routine. Dental treats or water additives can supplement but not replace brushing. Regular professional cleanings as recommended by your veterinarian prevent periodontal disease.

Litter box maintenance is straightforward. Provide one box per cat plus one extra, cleaned daily. Burmese cats are generally fastidious and may refuse dirty boxes. Place boxes in quiet, accessible locations away from food and water. Most Burmese adapt easily to various litter types, though unscented clumping litter is most commonly preferred.

Regular veterinary care includes annual wellness exams for adults and twice-yearly visits for seniors. Keep vaccinations current according to your veterinarian's recommendations. Monitor weight carefully, as Burmese cats' muscular build makes obesity less obvious visually but still dangerous for health. The key to successful Burmese care is recognizing their intense need for companionship and interaction—meeting these emotional needs is as important as providing food, water, and shelter.

Feeding a Burmese cat requires attention to their metabolic needs and tendency toward food-motivated behavior. Burmese cats have muscular builds with relatively high metabolisms when young and active, but they can gain weight if overfed, particularly after spaying or neutering. Their food motivation—they often love eating—makes portion control essential throughout their lives.

High-quality, protein-rich cat food is fundamental. Choose foods listing real meat (chicken, turkey, fish, or beef) as the first ingredient, with protein content of at least 30-40% for adults. As obligate carnivores, cats need animal-based proteins for essential amino acids like taurine, crucial for heart and eye health. Avoid foods with excessive fillers, artificial colors, or by-products. Look for foods meeting AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for complete and balanced nutrition.

Caloric needs vary by age, activity level, and individual metabolism. Active adult Burmese typically need 200-300 calories daily, with males requiring more than females due to larger size. Kittens need significantly more calories per pound of body weight to support rapid growth. Senior cats often need fewer calories as activity decreases. Start with feeding guidelines on food packaging and adjust based on your cat's body condition—you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure and see a slight waist when viewing from above.

Feeding schedules help manage weight and prevent overeating. Many owners successfully feed measured portions twice daily—morning and evening. This routine prevents grazing behavior that can lead to weight gain and allows monitoring of food intake. Some Burmese do well with three smaller meals daily, particularly active individuals or those prone to vomiting if hungry. Free-feeding (leaving food out constantly) is generally not recommended for this food-motivated breed unless weight management isn't a concern.

The wet food versus dry food debate has merits on both sides. Wet food provides valuable hydration (important for urinary tract health), typically contains more protein and fewer carbohydrates than dry food, and often helps with weight management due to higher water content and lower calorie density. Dry food offers convenience, helps clean teeth through mechanical action, and can be left out longer. Many veterinarians and breeders recommend a combination approach—wet food for main meals supplemented with small amounts of high-quality dry food or using dry food in puzzle feeders for mental stimulation.

Treats should constitute no more than 10% of daily calories. Burmese cats are often highly food-motivated and will beg enthusiastically for treats, but overindulgence leads to weight gain. Choose healthy treats like freeze-dried meat, small pieces of cooked chicken or fish, or commercial treats with minimal additives. Some Burmese enjoy vegetable treats like small pieces of cooked green beans or carrots, which are low in calories.

Hydration is crucial. Always provide fresh, clean water, changing it daily. Many Burmese prefer running water, so consider a cat water fountain to encourage drinking. Some cats enjoy ice cubes added to water bowls. Adequate hydration supports kidney function and urinary tract health.

Life stage considerations matter significantly. Kittens need kitten-formulated food until age one, providing extra calories, protein, and nutrients for growth. Adult maintenance formulas suit cats ages 1-7 years. Senior formulas (7+ years) often have adjusted protein levels, added joint support, and modifications for aging digestive systems. Pregnant or nursing females have dramatically increased caloric needs requiring specialized feeding plans. Monitor your Burmese's weight and body condition regularly, adjusting portions as needed. Obesity is a significant health risk, but so is underfeeding. Working with your veterinarian to establish appropriate feeding strategies ensures your Burmese maintains optimal health throughout their life.

Burmese cats are generally healthy and hardy, often living 12-16 years or longer with proper care. However, like all purebred cats, they have predispositions to certain genetic health conditions that prospective owners should understand. Responsible breeders screen for known genetic issues and work to minimize their occurrence in breeding lines. Regular veterinary care, proper nutrition, and attention to preventive health measures help Burmese cats live long, quality lives.

While Burmese cats have some breed-specific health concerns, most individuals live long, healthy lives with proper care. The key is choosing a kitten from a responsible breeder who tests for genetic conditions, providing excellent nutrition and weight management, maintaining regular veterinary care, and staying alert to any changes in behavior or health. The breed's generally robust constitution and longevity make them rewarding companions. Being informed about potential health issues allows early intervention when needed, maximizing both quality and length of life.

The Burmese coat is one of the breed's most distinctive and appealing features. Short, fine, and satin-like in texture, it lies close to the body with a naturally glossy sheen that appears almost polished. The texture is unique among cat breeds—incredibly soft and silky, often compared to warm satin or silk fabric. This luxurious coat has minimal undercoat, contributing to its smooth appearance and making it exceptionally easy to maintain. Simply stroking a Burmese cat reveals why they're prized for their coat quality.

Grooming a Burmese is remarkably simple. Weekly brushing with a soft rubber curry brush, grooming mitt, or even just your hand (many Burmese shed so little that hand-stroking removes loose hair effectively) is typically sufficient. The brushing process distributes natural skin oils that maintain the coat's characteristic shine and removes minimal loose hair. Most Burmese cats enjoy being groomed, purring contentedly and leaning into the brush. Grooming sessions provide excellent bonding opportunities and allow you to check for any skin issues, lumps, or parasites.

Bathing is rarely necessary for Burmese cats. Their coat naturally resists dirt and stays remarkably clean. Most Burmese never require bathing throughout their lives unless they get into something particularly messy. If bathing becomes necessary, use a mild, cat-specific shampoo, ensure thorough rinsing, and dry completely to prevent chilling. Over-bathing can strip natural oils and potentially irritate skin, so bathe only when genuinely needed.

Color varieties in Burmese cats depend on which registry and country you're considering. In the United States, the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognizes four colors in American Burmese: sable (rich, warm brown shading to slightly lighter on the underparts), champagne (warm honey beige with slightly darker points), blue (soft blue-gray with warm fawn undertones, lighter on the underparts), and platinum (pale silvery gray with fawn undertones, subtly shaded). All these colors show the characteristic Burmese shading pattern where the body is lighter than the points (face, ears, legs, tail), but the contrast is subtle rather than dramatic like Siamese pointing.

The International Cat Association (TICA) and international registries, particularly those recognizing European Burmese, accept a broader color palette. In addition to the four American colors, they recognize red, cream, and various tortoiseshell combinations (seal tortoiseshell, blue tortoiseshell, chocolate tortoiseshell, lilac tortoiseshell). The European color descriptions sometimes differ—champagne may be called chocolate, and platinum may be called lilac. Regardless of color, all Burmese have that distinctive satin coat texture and subtle shading pattern.

Eye color in Burmese ranges from yellow to gold, with deeper, more intense gold preferred in show cats. The large, rounded, expressive eyes are particularly striking against the various coat colors. The richness of eye color often develops fully as the cat matures, with kittens starting with lighter eyes that deepen over time.

Additional grooming needs are minimal. Trim nails every two weeks using cat nail clippers, taking care not to cut the quick (the pink part containing blood vessels). Provide scratching posts to satisfy natural scratching instincts and help maintain claw health. Check ears weekly; Burmese typically don't require frequent ear cleaning unless they develop excessive wax or debris. Wipe with a cotton ball dampened with vet-approved ear cleaner if needed, but never insert anything into the ear canal. The overall grooming commitment for Burmese cats is among the lowest of any breed, freeing more time for what they truly crave—interactive play and companionship with their beloved people.

Burmese cats are exceptional with children, making them ideal family pets. Their patient, tolerant nature allows them to handle the noise, movement, and sometimes unpredictable behavior of children with remarkable grace. Unlike more nervous breeds that might hide or react defensively to children's energy, Burmese cats often seek out children's company and participate enthusiastically in gentle play. They're sturdy enough physically to withstand careful handling and emotionally secure enough not to become stressed by household activity.

These cats genuinely enjoy interactive play that children provide. They'll enthusiastically chase toys, play fetch (bringing back small balls or crumpled paper repeatedly), and engage in hide-and-seek games. Their playful nature perfectly matches children's energy levels, and they often become devoted playmates. Many Burmese cats sleep in children's beds at night, forming special bonds with young family members. Their patience extends to tolerating dress-up play, gentle carrying, and other typical childhood cat interactions when the cat is acclimated gradually and respectfully.

While Burmese cats are unusually tolerant, it's crucial to teach children appropriate interaction. Supervise young children around cats until they learn gentle handling, respecting the cat's signals when they've had enough, and understanding boundaries. Teach children to recognize signs of overstimulation (tail lashing, ears back, dilated pupils) and to give the cat space when needed. Show children proper ways to pet and hold cats, and never allow pulling of tails, ears, or whiskers.

Providing escape routes and safe spaces ensures the cat can retreat when overwhelmed. High perches, cat trees, or designated quiet rooms give Burmese cats options when they need breaks from interaction. Most Burmese rarely need these escapes, but having options available prevents stress. Unlike many breeds that spend much of their time hidden from children, Burmese typically stay in the midst of family activity by choice.

Regarding other pets, Burmese cats are generally social and accepting. With other cats, they're friendly and non-aggressive, often seeking feline companionship. They play well with other cats and frequently cuddle together for naps. Proper introductions are important—gradual scent swapping, feeding on opposite sides of doors, and supervised initial meetings help establish positive relationships. Burmese cats' confident, outgoing nature helps them integrate into multi-cat households smoothly, though they may dominate more reserved cats simply through their exuberance and desire for attention.

With dogs, Burmese cats often form close friendships, particularly with cat-friendly breeds. Their confidence means they don't automatically flee from dogs, which helps prevent chase behaviors. Many Burmese will approach dogs with interest, sniff noses, and settle down together. Gradual introductions with initial barriers (baby gates or cracked doors) allow both animals to acclimate to each other's presence safely. Supervision during early interactions ensures safety until you're confident they'll interact appropriately. Some Burmese cats even play chase games with dogs or groom them.

Smaller pets like birds, hamsters, fish, or pocket pets require careful consideration. Burmese cats retain hunting instincts despite their domestication and may view small animals as prey. While some Burmese can learn to coexist peacefully with caged pets, never leave them unsupervised together. Secure all cages and tanks with proper locks and lids. Place them in areas where the cat cannot easily reach or knock them over. Bird cages should be in rooms where doors can be closed when birds are out of cages.

The Burmese cat's social nature makes them excellent candidates for multi-pet households. They rarely want to be only pets; having companion animals helps meet their substantial social needs, particularly in households where people work away from home. Whether with children, other cats, or dogs, Burmese cats typically become central family members who participate fully in household life, bringing joy and entertainment to all family members, human and animal alike.