Burmese Cats - A Lazy Cuddly Companion

You would like to believe that the Burmese cat originated in Burma. Although this is true, records indicate that the earliest Burmese cats were found in Thailand. It was introduced in the US in the 1930's and was bred with Siamese cats. Thus it got some physical and behavioral similarities that were similar to Siamese cats. The American Burmese is said to have a medium, cobby physique.

Features Of The Burmese Cat

They are neither too tall, nor too short. They have a muscular physique and look athletic. They have a very shiny coat, which is glossy in texture and short in length. These Burmese cats are known far and wide for their beauty and appeal. They are found in various colors such as blue, brown, cream, chocolate, lilac and red. However, only the sable colored ones have got official recognition. Their life expectancy is said to be around thirteen years. These cats are said to be very affectionate to their owners and follow them around everyone in the house. They make very good pets and can adapt well to any kind of environment. They love being stroked and petted all the time. The Burmese cat is also very accepting of everyone. It befriends even strangers, which is why it is not a good idea to leave them outside the house very often. They have a very soft voice, and are also known to be quite intelligent.

History Behind The Burmese Cat

The Burmese cat is a breed that has come out of crossbreeding a Siamese and an ancient version of a pure Burmese cat. Dr. J.Thomson was the first person, who bought one of the last few pure Burmese cats Wong Mau, and bred it to a Seal Point Siamese. The result was the first Burmese kitten.

Care And Maintenance

Burmese cats are easy to maintain. They are very heavy; therefore care needs to be taken when picking them up for bathing and brushing. These cats are very susceptible to danger, as they are pretty vulnerable, although they look otherwise. They should not be left outside with stray cats and dogs, as they are not capable of defending themselves. Burmese kittens tend to be pretty lively, and it is fun to see them play. They attempt new feats, and clumsily fail, thus becoming a source of great amusement to the owner. They however need to be shielded off diseases such as cherry eye and corneal dermoids. This disease attaches skin or hair to the cornea of the cat. It is however, correctable.

Please take care to purchase this cat only if you are sure of spending a lot of time at home. A Burmese cat is the softest and cutest cat that you can have but it requires a lot of your attention.