5 Things to Know About Burmese Cats

1. Key Characteristics of Burmese Cats

• Weight: 8–12 pounds
• Life Expectancy: Around 15 years

Burmese are medium-sized cats with a compact and muscular body.

The body is surprisingly heavy, topped with a rounded head. The large eyes are quite expressive.

The short, glossy single coat may appear pointed when the cats are young and may darken over time. The main coat colors include sable, champagne, platinum and blue.

Other colors may include sepia, lilac, chocolate, red and cream.

2. Where Burmese Cats Came From

The first Burmese is thought to have been Wong Mau, given to Dr. Joseph G. Thompson of San Francisco in 1930 by a sailor returning from Asia.

Other theories assert that Dr. Thompson brought the cat to the United States from Burma.

The cat resembled a dark Siamese to some, but Dr. Thompson believed she was a distinct breed. Wong Mau was bred with a Siamese to extend the breed line, and many now believe the original cat was a cross between a Siamese and a Burmese.

The first Burmese kitten was reportedly born in England in 1955. It was a blue Burmese named Sealcoat Blue Surprise.

The International Cat Association recognized the breed in 1979.

3. How Friendly Are Burmese Cats?

The breed is devoted and tolerant, and they’ve allowed people to dress them up (much like Ragdolls).

Burmese are people-oriented and may follow humans from room to room, so they’re ideal for families with children and will generally tolerate a home with dogs.

Burmese cats love to play fetch, making them a bit dog-like. They’re social and can experience loneliness or separation anxiety if left alone for a long time.

If your family’s routine results in leaving your cat alone often, you should get another Burmese to keep yours company.

4. Is This the Right Cat for You?