It’s not surprising to learn that the Burmese cat has its origins in Burma – the first Burmese cat was
taken from this country to America in the 1930s, where it was later recognised as a new breed.
Today’s Burmese cats come in 10 colours, including Chocolate (a warm, milky chocolate), Blue (which
is a silvery grey), Red (a tangerine colour) and Lilac (a soft, pinky grey). Burmese are well-muscled
medium-sized cats that have a rounded brow, firm chin and wide cheekbones that taper to the
muzzle. Their eyes, which can be any shade of yellow, are large and well set apart.
They are a pretty robust cat and can live to 18 or even 20 years, and they aren’t susceptible to any
particular health concerns. Once the cat turns about eight or nine, though, it is a good idea to have a
yearly check for issues like gum disease and a blood test to check that the organs are functioning.
As a pet, the Burmese make great family animals as they are friendly, affectionate and very playful.
Even older cats will behave like kittens if their human owners play with them. They can, however,
become bored if the owners are away from the house all day. Then once you get home they can be
quite pushy, begging to be carried. It’s not a bad idea for this breed to have another Burmese cat to
play with. Be careful with your Burmese – this inquisitive breed has been known to climb into cars,
and because they are trusting of strangers, they can be the target of thieves. Best to keep them at
home, where they are happy as long as they have company.
These cats don’t need any special grooming and they shed very little. They make excellent
companions as they are sensitive to their owners feelings, and they don’t mind a noisy house at all.
