Burmese

Breed Type: Asian
Common nicknames: Copper Cat
Coat: Short-haired
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Friendly, affectionate, energetic, playful
Life expectancy: 12-18 years
Color & patterns: Brown
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Burmese - brown
Burmese - brown
Burmese - brown
The Burmese cat is a beautiful feline with a compact, muscular body and shiny coat that can be a range of gorgeous colors. This breed has a fascinating history, originating in Southeast Asia as the companions of Burmese monks. In the early 20th century, they were brought to the United States, where they quickly became popular due to their affectionate and playful personalities, making them perfect for anyone who craves companionship. One of the best things about the Burmese cat is their ability to adapt to different lifestyles. They can thrive in small apartments or large homes and get along well with children and other pets. They’re active and always ready to play and explore, but they’re also content to curl up on your lap for some cuddles. These cats are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train and teach new tricks. With their friendly personalities and adorable looks, it’s no wonder why the Burmese is such a beloved cat breed.

Burmese characteristics

Learn about about Burmese basics like if they're good with kids and other Burmese, how much grooming they need, and other facts.

Average height

10-12 inches (25.4-30.5cm)

Average weight

8-12 pounds (3.6-5.4 kg)

Average lifespan

12-18 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
When do Burmese cats stop growing?

Burmese cats stop growing around 18 months to two years of age. They might reach their full length and height by about one year old but continue to fill out and gain muscle mass until they are around two years old.

How long do Burmese cats live?

Burmese cats typically live between 10 and 16 years, though many Burmese cats live longer based on factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, healthcare, and overall lifestyle. Providing proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can help dogs of all breeds live long and healthy lives.

Are Burmese cats good with other cats?

Yes, Burmese cats are typically good with other cats, especially when introduced properly and raised together. Their sociable and friendly nature makes them adaptable to living with other cats; they tend to be more accepting and less territorial than some other breeds.

Are Burmese cats good with dogs?

Yes, Burmese cats are good with dogs, especially if they are introduced properly and the dog is cat-friendly. Burmese cats are generally social and adaptable, which helps them adjust to living with dogs, but the relationship’s success depends on the individual personalities of both the cat and the dog. Supervised introductions and providing safe spaces for the cat to retreat can help the dog and cat get used to each other.

How much do Burmese cats shed?

Burmese cats shed relatively little compared to some other breeds. Their short, fine coat requires minimal grooming, and they typically shed only small amounts of hair throughout the year. Regular brushing can help reduce shedding and keep their coat in good condition.

Do you need to groom a Burmese cat?

Yes, while Burmese cats’ short coats require less grooming than some other breeds, they still benefit from regular care. Regular brushing about once a week helps remove loose fur and minimizes shedding. A soft-bristled brush or a grooming glove works well for their short coat.

Regular nail trimming is important to prevent overgrowth and discomfort. Aim to trim your cat’s nails every few weeks. Check their ears regularly for dirt or wax buildup, and clean them gently with a cat-specific ear cleaner if needed.

Burmese history

Learn about where this Burmese came from!

Where are Burmese cats from?

Burmese cats are from Burma (now Myanmar). The breed as we know it today began when Dr. Joseph G. Thompson of San Francisco brought a cat named Wong Mau from Burma to the United States in the 1930s and bred her with Siamese cats.

How many types of Burmese pedigrees are there?

There are two types of Burmese pedigrees: American Burmese and European Burmese. These distinctions developed due to different breeding practices in the United States and the United Kingdom/Europe. The American Burmese has a more rounded appearance, with a broader head, rounder eyes, and a more compact body. The European Burmese has a more slender and elegant appearance, with a slightly longer, wedge-shaped head and almond-shaped eyes.

What two breeds make a Burmese cat?

The modern Burmese cat was developed by breeding a cat named Wong Mau, who was brought from Burma with Siamese cats. This initial crossbreeding, combined with selective breeding over time, led to the establishment of the Burmese breed. 

Burmese temperament

Learn about about the Burmese temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Burmese cats meow a lot?

Yes, Burmese cats meow a lot. They have a soft and sweet-sounding voice and are not shy about using it to communicate with their pet parents. Burmese often meow to seek attention, express their needs, or simply engage in a “conversation” with their human companions.

Are Burmese cats friendly?

Yes, Burmese cats are friendly and affectionate. While individual temperaments vary, the breed tends to be sociable, loving, and people-oriented. Burmese cats also tend to get along well with other pets and children, making them great family pets.

Are Burmese cats good hunters?

No, Burmese cats are not typically known for being good hunters compared to some other breeds. Although they have the physical abilities and instincts to hunt, they are usually more focused on interacting with their people rather than pursuing prey. They might still exhibit playful hunting behaviors, such as pouncing on toys or stalking objects during playtime.

Are Burmese cats good indoor cats?

Yes, Burmese cats are good indoor cats. They generally adapt well to indoor living, where they are safe from outdoor dangers and can enjoy a comfortable, secure environment. Burmese enjoy the companionship of their pet parents and are happy to be part of family activities. Always give indoor cats plenty of toys, scratching posts, and opportunities for interactive play to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Are Burmese cats good lap-cats?

Yes, Burmese cats are good lap-cats. They enjoy physical closeness and are often content to curl up in a lap for cuddles and warmth.

Are Burmese cats active?

Yes, Burmese cats are active and playful. They have a lot of energy and enjoy engaging in interactive play. Curious and spirited, Burmese cats often seek out opportunities for activity and mental stimulation. Providing toys, climbing structures, and playtime can help keep them entertained and happy. They enjoy games like fetch, chasing toys, and exploring their environment.

Are Burmese cats cuddly?

Yes, Burmese cats are cuddly. These affectionate cats often seek out attention and enjoy being held, petted, and cuddled. Their sociable and loving demeanor makes them great lap-cats and close companions, as they tend to thrive on physical closeness and interaction with their people.

Are Burmese cats good pets?

Yes, Burmese cats are good pets for many reasons. They are affectionate, playful, adaptable, friendly with other pets, and good with kids. Their desire for interaction with their people can make them particularly rewarding pets for those who enjoy a strong, affectionate relationship with their cat.

Burmese health

Learn about about the Burmese health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Are Burmese cats hypoallergenic?

No, Burmese cats are not hypoallergenic. Although they have a short, fine coat that sheds less than some other breeds, they still produce allergens that can affect people with cat allergies. Allergy sufferers are often sensitive to proteins found in cat saliva, dander (skin flakes), and urine, which are not eliminated by having a low-shedding coat.

Are Burmese cats healthy?

Yes, Burmese cats are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Some common health concerns in Burmese cats include:

  • Eye issues: Some Burmese cats might experience eye problems, including conjunctivitis, corneal dermoids, glaucoma, or corneal ulcers.

  • Respiratory problems: Some Burmese cats are prone to respiratory issues due to their flat facial structure, which can affect airflow.

  • Congenital craniofacial defects: A group of conditions that affect the shape and structure of the skull and face, including brachycephaly, cleft palate, cleft lip, and midline defects (a range of defects that occur along the midline of the face and skull).

  • Dental issues: Burmese cats are prone to dental problems such as gingivitis and periodontal disease, so regular dental care is important.

  • Obesity: Burmese can gain too much weight if diet and exercise are not managed properly.

  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): HCM is a common heart disease in cats where the heart muscle thickens, reducing the heart’s efficiency and potentially leading to heart failure or sudden death. Symptoms can include lethargy, rapid breathing, and coughing. While there is no cure, medication and lifestyle changes can help manage the condition.

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Adopting a Burmese

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