Spend a few moments with a Birman cat, and it’s not hard to see why this adorable, affectionate cat was considered to be sacred in its native country of Burma. From their origins as “Temple  Cats” in Burma, these fabulous felines have purred and cuddled their way into the hearts, homes (and laps) of cat lovers world-wide.
History: It is said that the Birman has originated in western Burma, and of course cats with similar markings are recorded in documents from ancient Thailand. One story claims that a pair was given as a gift to an Englishman named Major Gordon Russell and his friend August Pavie by the priests of the Khmer people; however, what is suspect is the year that he and his friend, Auguste Pavie, were actually in the Far East. As research states, it appears to be 1898, which seems to be accurate as history indicates certain tribal revolutions at that time, which relate to Buddhism and additional religious factions.
Appearance: The ideal Birman is a large, long stocky cat. A good show Birman requires a round, broad head with full cheeks and a medium sized nose. It has long silky coat, not as thick as that of the Persian, and is of a texture that doesn’t mat. The most beautiful about birman is, however it’s colouring. The Birman Cat has color pointed features on the face, ears, legs and tail. These cats come in a variety of point and pattern colors. The Point cat colors are seal, red, lilac, cream, chocolate, blue, chocolate, or lilac cream. They are the only cat breed in the colourpoint coat that has fingers and toes in pure white colour. What is also interesting about the Birmans is their Saphire eyes. Big, round and deep blue eyes of Birman never cease to look at you with the greatest interest. A unique characteristic of the Birman is their drooling behaviour when treated with affection.
Size: Weight - 4.5-8kg (10-18kg)
Temperament: The Birman cat has a moderate, affectionate, almost dog-like temperament and thrives on human attention. They are very calm and get along well with other family pets and well-behaved children. They are extremely intelligent creatures, and take a genuine interest in whatever is taking place around them. They are also very curious, and playful, especially when young, and require plenty of stimulation and attention. Birmans want to investigate everything, and are often found getting into trouble! They are soft-voiced and amenable to being handled, which can be a big help when you take your cat to the vet, or enter it in a show.
Health: The Birman is a generally healthy cat with no breed-specific health problems. As with all cats it is a good idea to have an annual health check from about the age of eight, to check for age related problems such as liver and kidney disease.
Life expectancy: over 15 years
Grooming: Birmans love to be touched. Unlike Persians, their coats do not mat. They lose their kitten coat when around a year old and then what grows in is a beautiful ruff around the neck (much like an Elizabethan collar), a darker mask and point color and a beautiful ivory body. You only need to groom once a week but since Birmans shed seasonally, perhaps then more frequently to get out loose hair.
Kitten price: $300.00 - $800.00