The Burmese cat is a breed of domestic cat originating from Burma (now Myanmar) near the Thai-Burma border and developed further in the United States and Britain. It is a medium-sized, muscular cat known for its compact build, rounded features, and short, glossy coat typically in dark brown (sable) but also available in various other colors such as blue, champagne, red, and cream. Burmese cats are characterized by their social, playful, and affectionate nature, often described as energetic, curious, and very vocal. They enjoy interaction with their human families and other pets and require moderate grooming. The breed traces back to a female cat named Wong Mau brought from Burma to the US in 1930, which was bred with Siamese cats to establish the modern Burmese breed standards.
Physical Characteristics
- Medium-sized, muscular, with a rounded head, ears, eyes, chin, and feet.
- Short, tight-fitting coat with little to no undercoat, usually glossy.
- Weight: males 5-6 kg, females 3-5 kg.
- Coat colors include sable (traditional dark brown), blue, lilac, red, cream, and tortoiseshell variants.
- Eyes are large, round, with colors ranging from yellow to amber.
Temperament and Behavior
- Friendly, social, and highly playful cats.
- Very vocal and communicative.
- Do not like to be left alone, often bond closely with their owners.
- Energetic and enjoy climbing, jumping, and interactive play.
- Generally good with other cats and pets if well-socialized.
History and Development
- Originates from Burma with roots near the Thai border.
- Modern breed developed primarily from a cat named Wong Mau brought to the US in 1930.
- Early breeding involved crossing with Siamese cats.
- Breed recognized by cat fancier organizations in the 1930s-1950s after refinement of breed standards.
- Two main strain types exist: American and European Burmese, with slight differences in standards but generally considered the same breed.
Care
- Coat requires minimal grooming, with occasional brushing recommended.
- Needs regular claw trimming and ear cleaning as necessary.
- Active lifestyle recommended, with access to climbing structures and playtime.
This comprehensive overview captures the essence of the Burmese cat breed including its physical traits, personality, history, and care requirements.
