Burmese Cat

Read our comprehensive guide to Burmese Cats, including information on predisposed health issues, exercise needs, family friendliness, grooming, history, overview & temperament.

Cat
17 Oct 2023

History of Burmese Cats 

The lineage of Burmese cats can be traced back to a single brown female feline who was imported to San Francisco from Burma in 1930. Whilst the breed was first known in the UK around 1800, the breed eventually died out. Luckily, several were taken from Burma to the US, including the brown female feline mentioned above, and through selective breeding the Burmese cats we know and love today were developed.

The CFA officially recognised the breed in 1936 but then in a rare move, they were actually suspended in 1946 due to people outcrossing them with Siamese cats to try and increase numbers. However, after breeders were able to successfully produce three generations of pure Burmese litters, the breed’s recognition was then restored in 1954.

 

What to expect when caring for your Burmese cat

Common Burmese Cat Health Issues

Burmese cats are generally quite healthy and robust, but they can encounter certain conditions during their lifespan which owners should be aware of. This includes:

Hypokalaemia: a genetic condition connected to a low potassium level in the blood serum

Diabetes Mellitus: a disorder in which the body does not produce enough insulin or does not respond normally to insulin causing high levels of blood sugar.

Feline orofacial pain syndrome: this is a pain disorder that causes oral discomfort and tongue mutilation.

How Much Grooming do Burmese Cats Need?

When it comes to grooming, Burmese cats are pretty low maintenance. They do not shed much either, so brushing out their hair once a week is enough to keep it looking neat and tidy. They will need weekly nail trimming and ear cleaning if it looks dirty.

How Much Exercise do Burmese Cats Need?

Burmese cats need daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation through play and interaction with humans. It’s important for owners to ensure that their pets are staying active and healthy, so taking them on walks etc and engaging in physically and mentally stimulating activities with them should be a part of your regular routines.

  1. Burmese Cat Personality Traits

    What to expect from your Burmese Cat

    Burmese cats are highly sociable pets, and very loving and playful. They are often described as “dog-like” or a “Velcro cat” as they are the type to want to spend as much time as possible with their favourite humans. In fact, Burmese cats thrive so much in the company of others that isolation can be extremely detrimental for them and can lead to them developing stress behaviours such as aggressive grooming if they are left alone for extended periods of time. Burmese are also very bright cats who love to perform for people – owners have noticed how these cats turning back around mid play to see if their people are watching them. They are also a lot more playful than other cats and are often found playing, fetch, tag, hide and seek and other games.

  2. Are Burmese Cats Family Friendly?

    How will they behave around my family?

    Burmese cats are known to be extremely family friendly, and as mentioned above they thrive around people. They get on very well with humans of all ages, as well as other cats and even dogs. Burmese cats are not quiet cats either, so they are most at home surrounded by family and friends. Burmese cats are known to be curious, active and fun loving, so it’s clear to see how they are great family cats, especially for larger homes.

Key Facts Summary
Size:
15-18 inches
Weight:
8-15 pounds
Temperament:
Outgoing, loving, playful
Lifespan
10-17 Years
Average Cost:
£450 - £650

Burmese Cat FAQs:

Do Burmese cats get along well with other animals?

Burmese cats get along extremely well with humans and other pets too. They get on well with both other cats and dogs, so you don’t have to worry about them when you take them to pet oriented spaces.

How long do Burmese cats live for?

Burmese cats often live anywhere from 12 to 18 years – sometimes even longer.

There are a number of common health issues that Burmese Cats are prone to, and as a pet owner it’s worth considering insurance to help protect against unexpected vet bills. Take a look at Asda Money Cat Insurance to see the kind of cover you could get for your cat.

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