Burmese
Burmese History
- Breed began in 1930 in San Francisco when Dr. Joseph Thompson brought home a walnut-brown female cat he named Wong Mau from Burma and selectively bred her with Siamese males.
- Breed quickly grew in popularity, but hybrid versions began showing up in cat shows. In response, the Cat Fanciers Association withdrew its recognition of the Burmese in 1947.
- With pure Burmese lines re-established, the CFA granted championship status in 1957.
Burmese Behavior Concerns
- Thoroughly enjoys games of fetch, acting like a feline Labrador retriever.
- Maintains kitten-like energy well into adulthood.
- Highly intelligent and opinionated and can be stubborn at times.
- Welcomes the company of children, other cats and dogs.
- Loves to learn tricks as well as occupy laps.
- Consider getting two Burmese cats if you work long hours and are away from home because this breed does not like being left alone.
- Provide toys, scratching posts and sturdy high perches to occupy this breed, especially when left home alone.
- Can be overly trusting, so supervise this breed outdoors.
- Enjoys engaging in conversation.
Look of Burmeses
- Sports a short, satin-to-the-touch coat that comes in sable, champagne, blue, platinum, lilac, fawn, red, cream, chocolate, cinnamon and tortoiseshell patterns.
- Conveys a look of innocence with its giant, expressive round eyes that are green or golden.
- Round-shaped Body is medium build, muscular, stocky and sturdy.
Grooming Burmese Cats
- Requires very little grooming - just stroking the coat daily with your hand will maintain its healthy shine.
Suggested Nutritional Needs for Burmese
- Noted for being hearty eaters and prone to being overweight, so measure daily food portions.
Fun Facts of Burmeses
- Not unusual for Burmese to sleep on their backs.
- Seven cat breed registries accept this popular breed.