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

Do You Need to Clean A Cat's Teeth?

Just like for us humans, dental care is important for kitties too. Of course, human and feline teeth are totally different, so dental hygiene is not exactly the same for both. Here''s what you need to know.

Basston

The Basston is an even-tempered, friendly dog breed that makes a wonderful family pet. His sweet nature makes him a good choice for all households.

Cat-Napping On The Rise In The United Kingdom

Newly released figures show that cat thievery is alive and well in the UK, with a rise of 40 percent in the number of stolen cats reported.

Product Review: Kurgo Skipping Stones [Video]

Our dogs love to fetch, and they love to swim! And fetching and swimming together, means they burn off that energy faster as well – that’s a win-…

Corkie

The Corkie is a cross between a Cocker Spaniel and Yorkshire Terrier. These affectionate dogs that are also energetic, playful, and obedient.

Poshie

The fun-loving Poshie brings the outgoing personality of the Pomeranian together with the playful nature of the Shetland Sheepdog.

Belgian Malinois

You might confuse the Belgian Malinois with a German Shepherd. There are some differences between the two you''ll want to be aware of.

How Second-Hand Smoke Affects Your Dog

Need another good reason to quit smoking? That nasty habit could be killing your dog! You probably already know the dangers of second-hand smoke for infants…

Adoptable Dog of the Week – Gogi

We’d like to introduce you to Goji, our Adoptable Dog of the Week from Adoptapet.com. Gogi is an adult male Beagle living in Tampa, FL. This medium-siz…

Facts And Myths About Dog Insurance Policies

What’s true and what’s false? Let’s clear up some common dog insurance policy questions. Everyone seems to have something to say on the top…

Greater Sulphur Crested Cockatoo

Greater Sulphur Crested Cockatoo has a personality that is easy to fall in love with - all the way from their silly, chatty antics, to their cuddliness.

PupPod Smartphone-Connected Puzzle Toy Wins Innovation Award

PupPod, an amazing interactive new dog toy, recently won the 2017 Award of Innovation at the KC Animal Health Corridor Investment Fund.

Spots Light LED Dog Collar and Leash Light Up The Night

Jogging at night with your dog can be hazardous if you don''t have the right gear. Light up the dark with the Spots Light LED Dog Collar and Leash.

Anglo-Arabian Horse

The Anglo-Arabian Horse gets most of its physical features from the Thoroughbred. They are known for having a pleasant disposition

Royal Canin and Uber Pet Partner to Give Free Rides to Cat Owners

Starting September 11th, 2023, Royal Canin provides an Uber voucher that offers up to $10 off the first 5,000 eligible rides to the veterinarian booked via Uber Pet in 15 major U.S. cities.