Burmese Cat: Complete Guide — Profile, Characteristics, How to Care, Train, Choose, Pros, Cons, and Price
The Burmese cat is a charismatic and affectionate breed known for its sleek coat, captivating eyes, and dog-like loyalty. If you’re seeking a loving companion that adores human interaction, the Burmese cat might just be your perfect match. This article will provide a complete guide about the Burmese cat, including its profile, personality traits, care needs, training tips, how to choose the right kitten, pros and cons, and price expectations.
Burmese Cat Profile
- Origin: Burma (modern-day Myanmar) and further developed in the United States
- Size: Medium
- Weight: Males 4.5–6.8 kg; Females 3–5.5 kg
- Coat: Short, satin-like, very close-lying
- Coat Colors: Sable (rich dark brown), champagne, blue, platinum
- Eye Color: Gold to yellow
- Personality: Energetic, affectionate, playful, sociable
- Lifespan: 12–18 years
- Good For: Families, singles, seniors, multi-pet households
History of the Burmese Cat
The Burmese breed traces its roots back to a single female cat named Wong Mau, brought to the United States from Burma in the 1930s. She was bred with a Siamese cat, and her offspring helped establish the distinct Burmese breed we know today. Over time, two main types emerged: the American Burmese (stockier and rounder) and the British/European Burmese (more slender).
The breed’s sweet nature and stunning looks quickly won hearts around the world.
Physical Characteristics of Burmese Cats
Appearance
- Body: Compact, muscular, and surprisingly heavy for their size (“brick wrapped in silk”).
- Head: Rounded with full cheeks.
- Ears: Medium-sized, slightly rounded tips.
- Eyes: Large, expressive, and slightly rounded with a golden glow.
- Tail: Medium length with a slight taper.
Coat
- Texture: Extremely short and close-lying, feeling like satin.
- Color: Traditional Burmese are a rich sable brown, but other recognized colors include champagne, blue, and platinum.
Personality and Temperament
- Affectionate: Burmese cats crave human companionship and often follow their owners around.
- Playful: They remain kitten-like in behavior well into adulthood.
- Intelligent: Quick learners that can be taught tricks and commands.
- Social: Burmese hate being left alone and often do well with other pets.
- Vocal: They have soft, sweet voices and enjoy “talking” with their owners, though they are less noisy than Siamese cats.
How to Care for a Burmese Cat
1. Grooming
- Brushing: Once a week is sufficient due to their short, low-maintenance coats.
- Bathing: Rarely needed unless the cat gets dirty.
- Dental Care: Brush teeth regularly to avoid periodontal disease.
- Nail Trimming: Trim claws every 2–3 weeks.
- Ear Cleaning: Check and clean ears monthly to avoid infections.
2. Diet and Nutrition
- High-Quality Protein: Essential for maintaining muscle mass.
- Portion Control: Burmese can become overweight easily, so monitor their food intake.
- Fresh Water: Should always be available.
3. Exercise and Enrichment
- Playtime: Engage them with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders.
- Climbing Structures: Cat trees and shelves help satisfy their need to climb and explore.
- Companionship: They thrive in environments where they are not left alone for long periods.
How to Train a Burmese Cat
Basic Training
- Litter Training: Burmese cats are highly intelligent and usually take to litter training quickly.
- Positive Reinforcement: Use treats, praise, and affection when they exhibit good behavior.
- Consistency: Keep commands simple and consistent to avoid confusion.
Trick Training
- Sit, Stay, Fetch: Burmese cats are agile and clever; teaching them to fetch small toys is relatively easy.
- Clicker Training: Effective for more complex commands and building focus.
How to Choose a Burmese Kitten
Choosing a Reputable Breeder
- Health Testing: Ensure parents have been tested for known genetic diseases like hypokalemia (low blood potassium).
- Socialization: Kittens should be well-socialized and exposed to humans early.
- Clean Environment: Visit the breeder’s location to ensure the kittens are raised in a clean, loving environment.
- Registration Papers: A legitimate breeder will provide pedigree papers and health guarantees.
Adoption Option
- Rescue Organizations: Occasionally, Burmese cats are available through rescue groups for adoption.
Common Health Issues in Burmese Cats
- Hypokalemia: A genetic disorder causing muscle weakness.
- Diabetes Mellitus: Burmese cats can be prone to diabetes, especially if overweight.
- Craniofacial Defects: Rare but serious genetic defects, mostly in American Burmese.
- Gingivitis and Dental Issues: Regular dental care is crucial.
Routine veterinary check-ups and early health screenings can help catch and manage these issues.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Burmese Cat
Pros
- Incredibly Affectionate: They form strong bonds with their families.
- Intelligent and Trainable: They enjoy learning tricks and playing games.
- Minimal Grooming Needs: Their coats are extremely low-maintenance.
- Good with Children and Other Pets: Perfect for multi-pet households.
- Playful Personality: Provides endless entertainment.
Cons
- Needs Constant Companionship: Not ideal for people who are away from home frequently.
- Prone to Obesity: Requires diet control and regular exercise.
- Potential Health Issues: Genetic predispositions mean vet bills can be higher.
- Can Be Demanding: They want your attention and might become mischievous if ignored.
Price of a Burmese Cat
The cost of a Burmese kitten can vary depending on factors like lineage, breeder reputation, and location.
| Type | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Pet Quality Burmese | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Show Quality Burmese | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Adoption Fee (Rescue) | $100 – $400 |
Additional Costs:
- Initial vaccinations and spaying/neutering
- Premium food and toys
- Regular vet checkups
- Pet insurance (optional but recommended)
Conclusion
The Burmese cat offers a wonderful combination of affectionate companionship, playful energy, and stunning beauty. If you are looking for a loyal, social, and loving feline companion—and you have time to give them the attention they crave—the Burmese cat could be the perfect fit for your home.
Their velvety coats, deep golden eyes, and dog-like devotion make them one of the most charming breeds in the cat world.
