Birman

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT
fast facts

About Birman

Weight
8-12 lb
Physique
Medium to large, silky coat
Lifespan
13-15 years
Best Suited For
Perfect for families with children and/or other pets
Temperament
Sweet-natured, patient, even-tempered, tolerant
Comparable Breeds
Maine Coon, Siberian
Top Breed
7
Height
8-10 inches
ADVERTISEMENT

Birman Breed History

Known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” the Birman is an ancient breed whose true origins are unknown. One legend places the first members of this breed in Burma where they were kept as temple cats at Mount Lugh. Birmans came to France in 1919, which began the establishment of the breed in Europe. The first Birmans came to the United States in 1959 and were registered with the CFA in 1967. Most U.S. Birmans originated in France, England, Germany, or Australia.

Known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” the Birman is an ancient breed whose true origins are unknown.

Breed Traits

ADVERTISEMENT

Known for having an excellent disposition, the Birman is a friendly, outgoing, self-assured cat. They like to know what’s going on around the house, and will follow their humans to find out, but they aren’t intrusive cats. They participate, but they don’t take over. Birmans do need and want the company of their humans, and don’t like to be left alone. They do quite well with families, and are unusually fond of children. Moderately active, but quiet and gentle by nature, these loyal companions are an excellent addition to active households.

Overall Description

The Birman is a medium-sized cat with a sweet, round face, full cheeks, and gorgeous blue eyes that should be oval in shape. These cats are strongly built, and have lush, silky fur that is exquisitely soft to the touch. The ears sit at a slight angle well up on the head. Often they have a pronounced neck ruff and exceptionally fluffy tails. Slow growing, kittens do not reach full adult status until three years of age. White “gloves” on the paws are a dominant characteristic of the breed.

Colors

ADVERTISEMENT

Birmans are colorpoint cats with pale bodies offset by darker areas on the face, ears, feet, and tail. At birth, the kittens are all white, developing their distinctive colorations with age. Birmans come in a variety of colors including seal, lilac, chocolate, red, cream, blue, and tortie. All patterns can be either solid or exhibit the more dramatic lynx pattern, which displays tabby markings in the point colors. The breed has distinctive white paws that should be symmetrical on both the front and back and extend upwards on the hind paws in an inverted “V.”

Grooming Requirements

Although the Birman’s coat is long and luxuriant, their grooming requirements are surprisingly minimal, with the added plus that when they do need to be brushed or washed, they like the experience! They are especially receptive to being combed and will often ask their owners to do so. Surprisingly for a longhair breed, the Birman’s dense coat does not mat easily. By keeping loose hair out of the coat, the fur almost glows with good health, and shedding is kept at a remarkably low level.

Photo credit: Eric Isselee/Shutterstock

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Pups With Tents: Hot Dogs And Campfire Safety

Unless you''re roasting wieners, campfires and dogs shouldn''t mix! Kevin Roberts offers some fire safety tips to remember when camping with your dogs.

Jack-A-Poo

The Jack-A-Poo is a mix of Toy or Miniature Poodle and Jack Russell Terrier. They are a great family pet due to their affectionate, lively nature.

Havanese

The Havanese is a lapdog, performer, and companion. Friendly, loving and happy, the Havanese loves to play with its owners and other animals.

Sharmatian

The Sharmatian is a cross between a purebred Chinese Shar-Pei and Dalmatian. This dog is is playful, affectionate, energetic, and friendly.

Adoptable Dog of the Week- Kibbles

Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Kibbles, a 3 years old Terrier mix from Los Angeles, California. This charming pooch is neutered and vaccinated.

Hot Tips on Sun Protection For Dogs

Just because a dog has a coat of fur, it doesn''t mean that it is protected from the sun''s rays. Here are some tips for sun protection for dogs.

Adoptable Dog Of The Week – Ned

Are you looking for your perfect match? We’d like to introduce you to Ned, our lovable Adoptable Dog of the Week. Ned is a young male Pitbull Terrier m…

What Factors Go Into Determining Monthly Premium for Dog Insurance?

Friesian Horse

The Friesian horse is smart and gentle, though this breed is best suited to individuals who have some level of experience working with horses.

How To Groom A Dog

Here are the basics you''ll need to know on how to groom a dog. Feel free to print it out and keep it on the fridge for quick reference.

Photographic Proof That Men Who Own Cats Are Hot!

Meow! David Williams’ “Men & Cats” photo series will make ladies go crazy… for these warmhearted guys who love cats. I want to share…

Top 10 Products To Keep Your Dog’s Paws Safe This Winter

Our dog''s tootsies need protecting during the cold weather, so here are the top 10 products to protect your dog''s paws this winter.

Upside Down Dog Of The Week – Dot Dot Dash

We''re pleased to announce a brand-new feature - our Upsidedown Dog of the Week! We''ve teamed up with Upsidedowndogs.com to bring you a topsy-turvy pup.

Kickstarter’s Moxie is First Ever Smartphone for Pets

The gadget is to be worn on a harness and enables your pooch to call your phone just by barking. The market for wearable pet tech is booming- many pet parent…

Best New Year’s Eve Pet Outfits

It''s time to get all dressed up and find someplace to go! These designer duds are way too good for the dog park, so find a shindig worthy of these outfits.