Burmese Cat

Burmese
Pedigree Chocolate Burmese, "Pipmo Golden Padung"
Country of origin
Burma
Breed standards (external links)
CFA, ACFA, TICA, CCA, ACF, FIFe

The Burmese is a breed of domesticated cats descended from a specific cat, Wong Mau, who was found in Burma in 1930 by Dr. Joseph G. Thompson. She was brought to San Francisco, California, where she was bred with Siameses. This breed was first recognized in 1936 by the CFA and that postponed the registration between 1947 and 1953. Finally, in 1952 the breed was recognized by GCCF (UK Governing Council of the Cat Fancy).

The Burmese is a foreign shorthair, categorised by colour into brown (or seal), blue, chocolate, lilac, red, cream and tortoise shell. They have yellow eyes and a very short satiny coat. They are heavier than they look, as they are very muscular. By the standards of pedigreed cats they are long-lived, many reaching 16 to 18 years.

Burmese have very strong voices and are very affectionate, forming a strong bond with their owners. Other characteristics include an inclination to climb curtains and sit on doors. They are also territorial and may hiss at uninvited guests, though are social when neutered. They are athletic, brave and humourous, and may show remarkable ingenuity, particularly in finding warm places.

Whilst the female Burmese is playful, males, at times, have the tendancy to scratch an owner after long periods of being held. During the first year or so of a male Burmese cat's life, it will eat large amounts of food, and at times, appear overweight. This is perhaps a reason for the tendancy to attack an owner; however, as the bond between pet and owner gets tighter, the need for food will decrease and the male Burmese becomes perhaps the most affectionate breed of cat there is.