The Burmese Cat

Photo by Arnold Pisstanga

History
The Burmese Cat was first developed in the 1930's by Dr. Joseph Thompson from the United States. He selectively bred a female cat, named Wong Mau,  that he obtained in Burma to Siamese cats and effectively created the U.S. version of the Burmese breed. Occassionally, lighter colored cats were produced and they were referred to as Diluted, in time the American breeders carrying on Dr. Thompson's work petitioned the CFA (Cat Fancier's Association) for recognition. The CFA accepted the breed with these four colors: Blue, Champagne, Platinum (shown to the left) and Sable.

Disposition
Since their start in the 1930's the Burmese Cat has been charming their owners with their hypnotic eyes, and dog-like qualities. Like dogs Burmese cats are very people-oriented, and follow their owners from room-to-room. Some owners refer to them as "velcro" cats. Most can even be taught to play fetch! As kittens the breed is extremely active, and clumsy in their attempts to make jumps that they are unable to due to their lack of coordination. And, boy will you notice it when they fall or stumble as it will usually be followed by a large thump. I've often heard the owners or "parents" of Burmese cats describe their cats as tiny Mack trucks. As their small bodies surprisingly pack in a lot of weight because of their musculature. Burmese cats are also quite vocal like their Siamese ancestors. However, the Burmese meows are much softer and gentler in contrast the meows and "hollers" of a Siamese cat.

It is also important to note that Burmese cats are excellent with children, and will tolerate other pets in the household. And, I would not recommend allowing your Burmese cat to go outdoors unsupervised as the breed has lost its basic survival instincts because of years of domestication, and would have a rough time defending itself against another cat.

Grooming
As with all short-haired breeds very little grooming is required to keep their coats in tip-top shape. Weekly brushing to remove dead hair, and occassionally wiping them down with a damp cloth is all that is needed. Most Burmese cats have little to no body odor as they are very meticulous with maintaining their own coats. I recommend reading Cat Grooming 101 for instructions on how to care for their, ears, eyes, and teeth.

General Health and Lifespan
American Burmese cats live quite a long time, generally 16-18 years, and while generally a very healthy breed the cats can on occassion suffer from diabetes, respiratory infections, and cardiomyopathy.