Burmese Cat

Breed Overview

Introduction

Burmese cats are a medium-sized domestic breed originally from Burma (now Myanmar). They are known for their stocky, muscular build (often described as a “brick wrapped in silk”) and golden (or green) eyes.

Despite their petite appearance, they are heavier than they look. The breed’s glossy, sable-colored coat (dark brown) was the original standard, but modern Burmese come in many solid colors (blue, champagne, lilac, red, cream, tortoiseshell, etc.).

Burmese cats are remarkably affectionate and people-oriented – they retain a kitten-like, playful energy into adulthood and often act “dog-like” in their loyalty. They form strong bonds with their human family and are eager to join in daily activities, enjoying games and even tricks.

Breed History

Burmese cats have a storied history. In their native region of Southeast Asia, they were once revered by monks – Burmese legend holds that the cats were kept in temples and viewed as sacred.

The breed first gained Western attention in the 1800s. In 1871 a British cat show featured a Siamese-like feline that resembled the Burmese, but true Burmese-type cats did not catch on and virtually died out in Britain.

The modern breed traces back to a single female cat named Wong Mau, brought from Burma to the United States in 1930.

Dr. Joseph G. Thompson of San Francisco bred Wong Mau with Siamese cats, producing a new line of dark brown kittens.

By 1936 the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) formally recognized the Burmese as a distinct breed. (After WWII there was a brief suspension of recognition due to crossbreeding, but by 1954 the CFA reinstated Burmese status.)

Meanwhile, breeders in the UK revived the breed in the 1950s, and by 1952 the Burmese was accepted by the U.K.’s Governing Council of the Cat Fancy.

Since then Burmese enthusiasts have kept two strains: a “traditional” British/European type (slender, wedge-shaped head) and a contemporary American type (stockier build, round head).

Today, most cat associations consider these two standards to be the same breed (although some still call the British type the “European Burmese”).

Throughout the 20th century Burmese breeders also introduced new coat colors – for example, blue and lilac varieties appeared in the 1950s–1970s.

Burmese cats have since helped create other breeds too: the Tonkinese came from crosses of Burmese and Siamese, and lines of Burmese contributed to the development of the Bombay and Burmilla breeds.

Physical Characteristics

Burmese cats are medium-sized (about 9–13 pounds) but solidly built. They have muscular bodies and short, proportionate legs. The coat is very short, fine, and glossy with a satin-like sheen.

Unlike Siamese, Burmese coats have no point markings – the fur is a single, solid color (with only slight shading at the extremities).

Their eyes are large and expressive, usually golden or green (eyes tend toward green in brown-coated cats and gold in lighter colors).

Head shape varies by type: the American (contemporary) Burmese has a broader, rounder head with a very short muzzle and rounded contours, while the British (traditional) Burmese has a longer, wedge-shaped head with a defined muzzle. Both types have broad-set ears and a distinct nose break.

Despite appearances, Burmese cats feel heavy when held – thus the breed’s nickname “a brick wrapped in silk”

Behavior and Personality

Burmese cats are famously affectionate and social. They retain a kitten-like playfulness throughout life and thrive on human companionship.

Owners often describe them as “dog-like” in their loyalty – a Burmese will follow you from room to room, snuggle in your lap, and even greet you at the door. They quickly form strong attachments to family members. It is not uncommon for a Burmese to learn tricks, play fetch, or engage in interactive games.

These cats are very vocal, though not as loud as Siamese. They “talk” to their people with soft, sweet chirps and meows. (Some owners note their cries can sound a bit like a baby’s wail when they really want attention.)

Burmese are high-energy and intelligent; they love to play and explore. Boredom is quickly revealed in a Burmese – they may get into mischief if not kept occupied.

Because of their social nature, Burmese are not suited to long periods alone. They need someone (human or pet companion) around much of the time, and they will let you know if they feel neglected.

In general, Burmese cats get along well with people of all ages and with other pets. They are playful with children and can bond with dogs or other cats.

Owners appreciate their sweet disposition and eagerness to be involved. As one cat authority puts it, “Burmese are affectionate, loyal, and great entertainers who will try anything to get your attention”.

Care Guide

Diet

Burmese cats need a high-quality, protein-rich diet like all domestic cats. Feed them premium commercial cat food (wet and/or dry) that lists meat as the first ingredient. Including a mix of wet and dry food helps keep them hydrated and supports dental health.

Avoid low-grade foods with excess fillers, carbohydrates, or additives. Burmese have a hearty appetite and a tendency toward weight gain if overfed. Control portions and monitor body condition carefully.

Keep fresh water available at all times, as Burmese enjoy drinking and active hydration is important for their health.

Regular meals adjusted for age and activity level (adult, senior, kitten) are recommended; consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.

Exercise

This breed is very playful and active, so daily playtime is essential. Provide plenty of toys (wands, balls, and interactive puzzles) to engage their hunting instincts.

Burmese love to jump, climb, and chase, so tall cat trees and window perches will help them expend energy. Engage in interactive play sessions (laser pointer, feather toy, fetch) to stimulate both body and mind.

Many Burmese enjoy learning tricks through positive reinforcement and may excel at puzzle toys or agility-style games. Regular exercise helps prevent boredom and obesity.

Environment & Enrichment

Burmese cats are highly curious and thrive in an enriched, stimulating environment. They benefit from having safe outdoor access (a secure garden or enclosed patio) or regular supervised outdoor walks (using a harness) because they love to explore.

If kept indoors, ensure you have ample space and lots of climbing and hiding spots. Provide scratching posts and a variety of toys (especially puzzle feeders).

Burmese crave human interaction, so they do best in homes where people are around most of the day. If other pets are present, Burmese typically adapt well as long as those pets are also friendly. Without enough environmental enrichment and social time, a Burmese may become restless or destructive.

Grooming

The Burmese’s coat is easy to maintain. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming mitt removes loose hairs and keeps the fur shiny. Their self-grooming is usually sufficient, so bathing is seldom needed (though you can bathe them occasionally if their coat gets dirty).

Check the ears and teeth regularly: wipe ears with a gentle ear-cleaner to prevent wax buildup and brush teeth or use dental treats to maintain oral health. Trim nails every couple of weeks.

Overall, grooming a Burmese is low-effort due to the short coat.

Mental Stimulation

Burmese cats are smart and inquisitive. Keep their minds busy with enrichment: training sessions (they respond well to clicker or reward-based training), new toys, and changing the environment occasionally. Offer puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys so they “work” for their food.

Rotate toys regularly so they don’t get bored. Because Burmese love challenges, even teaching them a few commands or tricks can help satisfy their intelligence. Spending quality time each day playing or simply giving attention will keep a Burmese mentally happy.

Remember, a lonely Burmese can become anxious or misbehave, so social engagement is a key part of their mental health.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

Are Burmese cats friendly? 

Yes. Burmese cats are very outgoing and affectionate. They love to be around people and other pets, and they will eagerly seek out interaction and cuddles.

Do Burmese cats shed a lot? 

No. They have a short, fine coat and “do not shed much”. A quick brushing once a week will keep loose hair under control.

How much grooming do they need? 

Minimal. Weekly combing is sufficient to keep the coat healthy. Burmese are fastidious about self-cleaning, so apart from routine nail trims and ear checks, grooming is easy.

Are Burmese cats noisy? 

They can be. Burmese are fairly vocal (like the Siamese), but their voices are softer and sweeter. They will “talk” to you when they want attention or food. Expect chirps and meows – though not constant loud meowing.

Are they good with children and other pets? 

Yes. Burmese are typically great family pets. They are playful and tolerant with children (especially children who are gentle with them). They usually get along well with other cats and even dogs, enjoying the company.

Can Burmese cats live indoors only? 

They adapt to indoor life, but they thrive best with space. A secure outdoor enclosure or catio is ideal. If kept entirely indoors, make sure to provide ample climbing structures and play opportunities – Burmese are very active and curious.

Are Burmese cats hypoallergenic? 

No. While Burmese have short coats, they still produce the same allergens (from skin and saliva) as other cats. No cat is truly hypoallergenic. Those with allergies may still react to a Burmese.

Bonus Facts

Temple Cats

In Myanmar (Burma), these cats were traditionally known as “cats of the sun” and were kept in Buddhist temples. It’s said Burmese cats were considered sacred by monks. The Thai names for the Burmese are Thongdaeng (“copper-colored”) and Supphalak (“the golden one”), reflecting their historic status.

Bricks Wrapped in Silk

Burmese cats are sometimes nicknamed a “brick wrapped in silk”. This affectionate phrase highlights how heavy and solid their bodies feel, despite having a very smooth, silky coat.

Colorful History

The original Burmese cat was always brown (“sable”). The first blue Burmese appeared in the 1950s in Britain, and lilac (platinum) and chocolate (champagne) colors were introduced later by American breeders. For a time, dilute Burmese (blue, lilac, etc.) were shown as a separate breed called “Malayan” (1979–1984), but breeders later reunited them under the Burmese standard.

Breed Influences

The Burmese breed has influenced other cat breeds. Notably, crossing Burmese with Siamese led to the creation of the Tonkinese breed. Burmese also contributed bloodlines to the Bombay (a black-coated breed) and the Burmilla (cross with silver Shorthairs).

Playful Purr

Burmese often sound like a baby’s cry when they meow, a trait that surprises first-time owners. Their purrs are warm and rumbling, matching their friendly, convivial nature.

Long Lifespan

With good care, Burmese cats can live into their mid-teens or longer. Studies show an average lifespan around 14+ years, and many cats reach 16–18 years with proper nutrition and veterinary care.

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