Burmese Cat

Originating in Burma, the breed was first known in the UK around 1800 however the much louder and more boldly marked Siamese out-competed the Burmese for popularity, and the breed died out here. Fortunately, several were taken from Burma to the US in the 1930s (the first being a cat called Wong Mau), and from these cats the modern Burmese breed was developed. They were re-introduced in the late 1940s by Mrs Lilian France, who imported three cats who subsequently founded the breed in the UK.  
 
Originally only seen in the classic brown colour, blue kittens began appearing in some litters in the 1950s. In the 1960s following an accidental mating by an escaped queen with a stray tom, a pretty tortoiseshell was produced and some breeders decided to attempt to introduce more colours into the breed.  

Not really suited to a completely indoor life, yet sufficiently curious and inquisitive as to land themselves in serious trouble, the Burmese is in need of a large home with a secure outdoor space such as a covered run or cat-proofed fence. This is a serious consideration for this breed as they are very active, and will become stressed and potentially destructive without the necessary space to explore, jump, climb, play, and supervise.  

The Burmese needs a lot of company and play, whilst some of this need may be met by other resident cats, this is really a cat who needs people around much of the time. Ensure you have the time to play games, devise ways to recreating hunting and sniffing out food using toys and puzzles, and space to build elaborate cat trees and cat playgrounds. Only happy as a lap cat if time has been spent on entertaining and amusing them, the Burmese is a very clever cat, and may become stressed or destructive without sufficient enrichment. They can be trained using positive reinforcement and clicker training is particularly suitable for this smart breed!  

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle, and overall health, so it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in their diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes. With proper nutrition and care, the Burmese cat lifespan can extend to 16 years. 

The Burmese is a clean and easily cared for cat. Whilst they will typically keep themselves scrupulously clean, it is sensible to give your cat a brush through once a week, incorporating a general check over for any small wounds or parasites. A greasy or scurfy coat can be the first sign of illness and this is spotted much more readily if you groom your cat regularly.  

As with all cats, regular vaccination and parasite control is recommended and this should be discussed with your vet.  

Curious, active, friendly, and fun loving, the Burmese is a great family cat for the larger home with a secure garden, and children old enough to understand how to respect a cat’s space and interact appropriately. They will struggle if left alone for long periods, so are not suitable for homes where owners are away all day or for those who have frequently holidays and weekend breaks. For the family that loves a rather dog-like cat who is trainable and amusing, the Burmese makes an excellent companion.