## Quick Facts

- Naturally curly coat that can range from soft waves to tight ringlets, often compared to a sheep or a little poodle.
- Extremely people focused cats that love to “help” with every daily task and often follow their humans from room to room.
- Born in all sorts of coat stages, from nearly bald to straight coated, with curls usually developing as they grow.
- Generally healthy and robust, with a reputation for longevity and staying playful well into their senior years.
- A gentle, adaptable breed that fits surprisingly well into many types of homes, from busy families to calm single person households.

## Appearance & Coat

The LaPerm is a medium sized cat with a balanced, athletic build that feels more substantial in your arms than it might look at first glance. They are neither heavy nor delicate, but rather somewhere in between, with a body that reflects their working farm cat origins. Males are usually a bit larger and more muscular than females, yet both sexes share the same overall proportions. A LaPerm should feel firm and toned when you pick them up, with a graceful, slightly foreign look, rather than cobby or stocky.

One of the most striking features of the LaPerm is the head shape. The head is a modified wedge with gentle contours, meaning it is neither sharply angular nor overly round. Their ears are medium to large and can have lovely lynx tips or furnishings that add to their expressive appearance. The eyes are medium to large, almond shaped, and can come in many colors, often creating a beautiful contrast with the coat. There is a sweet and curious expression that many people immediately fall in love with.

Of course, the real star is the coat. LaPerms come in two coat lengths, shorthair and longhair, and both have their own special charm. The shorthair LaPerm has a coat that lies closer to the body but still shows obvious waves and curls, especially around the neck, tail, and underbelly. The longhair LaPerm often develops a more dramatic look, with a full plumed tail, a ruff around the neck, and looser, airy curls that can look almost like a perm. The texture is light, springy, and surprisingly soft to the touch, rather than coarse or woolly.

LaPerms can come in almost any color and pattern. Solid colors, tortoiseshells, tabbies, colorpoints, smokes, and silvers are all possible. This variety means there is a LaPerm for almost every taste, from subtle and natural looking to bold and striking. The curls can sometimes make patterns look more blended or shaded, which gives the coat extra depth and character.

Coat care for a LaPerm might sound intimidating at first, but it is usually fairly easy compared with many longhaired breeds. The curls do not typically mat as heavily as dense double coats, although some individual cats will need more care than others. Many LaPerms benefit from a gentle combing once or twice a week. A wide toothed comb or soft brush works best, as very fine combs can break up the curls or pull uncomfortably at the coat. It is usually better to work with the curl direction, not against it.

Some owners find that too much brushing can actually make the coat frizz, so it pays to experiment a little and see what keeps your own cat looking their best. If your LaPerm enjoys baths, an occasional mild bath followed by air drying can refresh the curls. Avoid heavy conditioners or grooming products that weigh the coat down. Keeping nails trimmed, checking ears for wax, and wiping the eyes if needed will complete a simple but effective grooming routine that keeps a LaPerm looking tidy and feeling comfortable.

## Temperament & Personality

Living with a LaPerm is a bit like living with a soft, curly shadow that has strong opinions and a sense of humor. These cats are famously people oriented and tend to form close bonds with their families. They often select a favorite person, yet they usually enjoy the company of everyone in the household. Many LaPerms greet their humans at the door, jump onto an empty lap at the first opportunity, and curl up next to you at night. If you are looking for a distant or aloof cat, this is probably not the breed for you.

In daily life, LaPerms are curious, observant, and gently playful. Instead of charging around the house nonstop, they are more likely to take a measured approach, investigating new objects, watching the world from high perches, and joining in when something piques their interest. They usually appreciate interactive play, such as wand toys or puzzle feeders, but they can also entertain themselves with simple objects, like crumpled paper or a cardboard box. They enjoy being part of whatever is happening and can be quite chatty, though their voices are often soft and pleasant rather than loud or demanding.

With families, the LaPerm tends to be affectionate and tolerant, provided that children are taught to handle them respectfully. Many LaPerms like to sit with children while they read or play, and some will happily join in gentle games like chasing a feather toy across the floor. Because they are sociable and adaptable, they often do well in busy households where there is always something going on, as long as they also have a quiet place to retreat when they need a break.

When it comes to other pets, LaPerms are usually sociable and can get along well with other cats and cat friendly dogs. Their friendly nature makes them good candidates for multi pet homes, especially if introductions are done slowly and thoughtfully. They are unlikely to dominate in a rough way, but they can hold their own and may even become the peacekeeper in the group.

There are a few challenges to be aware of with this breed. Their strong need for companionship means they can become lonely or bored if left alone for long stretches every day. Some LaPerms will respond by becoming clingier, while others may get into mischief as a way to entertain themselves. Mental stimulation and a regular routine of play and interaction are very important. In addition, their curiosity can lead them into trouble if your home is not reasonably cat proofed. They may investigate cupboards, counter tops, and open windows with great enthusiasm.

LaPerms are generally not aggressive cats, but like any breed they have their individual personalities. Some will be more outgoing and bold, while others are more reserved and take time to warm up to strangers. Early, gentle socialisation and consistent positive experiences help bring out the best in their nature. Overall, the LaPerm is known as a loving, adaptable companion that thrives on human contact and fits well into many different types of households.

## Training & Exercise

The LaPerm may not be a working breed in the traditional sense, but these cats are clever and surprisingly responsive to training. They tend to be motivated by both affection and food, which makes them quite open to learning basic cues and even some fun tricks. Training is not just a novelty for them. It is a useful way to channel their curiosity, build your bond, and prevent boredom.

In terms of activity level, LaPerms are usually moderately active. They are neither hyperactive acrobats nor couch potatoes. Instead, they enjoy short bursts of energetic play followed by long, relaxed stretches of napping near their people. To keep a LaPerm happy, plan on several short play sessions throughout the day rather than expecting them to entertain themselves all the time. Ten to fifteen minutes with a feather wand, a laser pointer used thoughtfully, or a fast moving toy mouse is often enough to satisfy their hunting instincts.

Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise for this breed. LaPerms often enjoy:

- Food puzzle toys that encourage them to work out how to access their treats
- Interactive feeders or slow feeding games that turn mealtimes into mini hunting sessions
- Simple nose work games, such as hiding treats around a room for them to search out

Training LaPerms usually works best with positive reinforcement. You can use small treats, a favorite toy, or gentle praise when they do something you like. Many owners teach their LaPerms to come when called, sit on cue, or jump onto a particular perch. Clicker training can be particularly successful, as these cats tend to enjoy figuring out what behavior earns them a reward.

Some LaPerms adapt very well to harness and leash training, especially if you start when they are young. This can be a safe way to let them explore the outdoors, smell new scents, and burn a little extra energy. Begin by letting them wear the harness indoors for short periods, rewarding them with treats and affection, then gradually introduce walking on a lead in a secure garden or quiet area.

At the same time, it is important to respect each cat’s individual temperament. While many LaPerms are adventurous, some may be more cautious and prefer indoor enrichment only. Provide a variety of scratching posts, climbing trees, and high shelves or perches so they can express natural behaviours like climbing, stretching, and observing from above. Vertical territory can make a big difference to their overall contentment.

A possible challenge is that a bored LaPerm might decide to create their own entertainment, which can involve knocking items off shelves, exploring off limit areas, or persistently asking for attention just when you are busiest. Regular, planned play sessions, a rotation of toys, and opportunities for interactive training help reduce this kind of mischief. With the right balance of exercise and mental stimulation, a LaPerm is usually a calm, easy housemate the rest of the time, content to curl up beside you and purr.

## Health

The LaPerm is generally considered a healthy and robust breed with a good life expectancy. Many LaPerms live well into their mid to late teens, and some reach 18 years or more with good care. Because the breed arose from a natural mutation and has often been outcrossed carefully to maintain genetic diversity, it has not accumulated a long list of breed specific diseases. Even so, responsible owners and breeders must still pay attention to health screening, good nutrition, and regular vet care.

Currently, there are no widely recognised serious genetic conditions that affect LaPerms uniquely in the way that certain diseases affect some other breeds. However, this does not mean they are completely free of health concerns. Like all cats, LaPerms can be prone to common feline issues such as:

- Periodontal disease and dental tartar
- Obesity if overfed or under exercised
- Kidney and urinary problems as they age
- Heart disease that can appear sporadically in any cat population

Regular veterinary checkups, ideally at least once a year for younger adults and more frequently for seniors, are essential. These visits allow early detection of any developing problems, from heart murmurs to dental issues. Good breeders will often have their breeding cats screened for general heart health and may perform additional checks as recommended in their region. While there is no specific genetic test that every LaPerm breeder must run, they should keep detailed records, monitor lines for emerging issues, and avoid breeding from cats with serious hereditary problems.

As with all purebred and pedigree type cats, responsible breeding practices matter. Prospective kitten buyers should feel comfortable asking a breeder about the overall health of their lines, any common issues they have seen, and how they select breeding cats. A conscientious LaPerm breeder will be open about both strengths and challenges and will not claim that their cats are “guaranteed” free from all disease.

LaPerms do not have a special diet requirement different from other cats, but good quality food appropriate for their age and activity level is very important. Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces the risk of diabetes, joint strain, and other obesity related problems. Monitor their body condition regularly. You should be able to feel ribs under a light layer of fat without pressing hard, and there should be a visible waist when viewed from above.

Because many LaPerms are affectionate and food motivated, it is easy to overdo treats. Try reserving part of their daily food allowance to use as training rewards, or choose low calorie treats so you can maintain a good balance. Fresh water should always be available. Some LaPerms drink more readily from a fountain, which helps support urinary and kidney health.

Routine health maintenance, such as vaccinations, parasite control, and spaying or neutering (unless the cat is part of a carefully managed breeding program), are just as important for LaPerms as for any cat. Indoor only LaPerms may have fewer risks from accidents and infections, but they still benefit from preventive healthcare and regular monitoring. Overall, with thoughtful care, a LaPerm can be a long lived, healthy companion that brings joy to your home for many years.

## History & Origins

The LaPerm has one of those delightful origin stories that sound almost like a fairy tale. The breed began in the early 1980s on a farm in the United States, when a brown tabby barn cat gave birth to a litter of kittens. Among them was a tiny, almost bald kitten with large ears and a long, thin body. As this unusual kitten grew, a soft, curly coat started to appear, completely different from the straight fur of its mother and littermates. The farmer noticed the kitten’s striking appearance and gentle nature and decided to keep and breed from it.

Over time, more curly coated kittens appeared on the farm, showing that the trait was hereditary. These cats were not pampered house pets at first. They were working farm cats, valued for their hunting ability and their affectionate temperaments. Visitors to the farm began to notice the unusual curly cats and show interest in them. Local breeders and cat fanciers recognised that this was a natural mutation worth preserving and developing as a separate breed.

The name “LaPerm” was chosen as a playful reference to their curled coats, which often look like a permanent wave hairstyle. From these humble beginnings, a structured breeding program was established. To create a healthy and diverse gene pool, breeders used carefully selected outcrosses to domestic cats and sometimes to other pedigreed breeds in the early days. The goal was to maintain the unique coat and personality while building a stable, genetically sound population.

Over the following years, cat registries in North America and internationally began to recognise the LaPerm. The breed gradually made its way to Europe and other parts of the world. Today, LaPerms are recognised in various cat fancy organisations and compete successfully in shows, where judges appreciate their distinctive look and sweet nature. Both shorthair and longhair varieties are accepted in many registries.

Although the LaPerm started as a working barn cat, its role today is almost entirely that of a companion and show cat. They are not bred for a specific job like some working breeds, yet they often retain strong hunting instincts and enjoy chasing toys or the occasional household insect. Their adaptable temperament has made them popular with people looking for a cat that is different in appearance, yet easy to live with.

Despite their relatively recent development compared with some ancient breeds, LaPerms have quickly earned a loyal following. Breeders worldwide work to maintain the integrity of the original type. This means preserving the hallmark curls, the gentle and people oriented nature, and the overall health of the breed. As awareness grows, more cat lovers are discovering that behind the unusual coat is a warm and engaging companion with a surprisingly practical, rustic background.

## Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with a LaPerm is usually a very rewarding experience, but it does come with certain responsibilities and considerations. These cats thrive on companionship and involvement. They are not the sort of pet that will be content to spend all day ignored in a corner. If you enjoy talking to your cat, having a furry helper while you work at your desk, and a constant presence on the sofa or bed, the LaPerm is likely to fit you well.

New owners should be prepared for a cat that is sometimes described as “velcro like.” Many LaPerms prefer to be near their humans at almost all times. They may follow you from room to room, supervise bathroom visits, and tap your hand if you stop petting too soon. For people who work long hours away from home, this can be a challenge. In such situations, consider adopting a pair of LaPerms or providing another friendly cat companion so they do not feel lonely. At the same time, it is important to establish gentle boundaries, such as teaching them not to walk directly across your keyboard or grab your fork at dinner.

Financially, owning a LaPerm is similar to owning any other purebred cat. Initial costs include the purchase price of the kitten, which reflects the breeder’s care, health tests, and time. On top of that, you will need to budget for:

- Vaccinations and early vet visits
- Spay or neuter surgery if not already done
- Quality food and litter
- Basic grooming tools, toys, and scratching posts

Ongoing annual costs will depend greatly on your location and lifestyle choices, but you can expect regular veterinary checkups, booster vaccinations as recommended, parasite prevention, food, litter, and replacement of worn out toys or equipment. It is wise to set aside a budget for unexpected veterinary bills or consider pet insurance, since emergency care can be expensive.

In terms of equipment, LaPerms appreciate a stimulating environment. A good tall cat tree, a selection of scratching posts in different textures, and comfortable beds in both quiet and social areas are excellent investments. Window perches are often very popular, as these cats enjoy watching the outdoors. Because they are so interactive, a variety of toys is helpful. Rotating toys every few days can keep them fresh and interesting without the need to constantly buy new ones.

Grooming needs are moderate but regular. Longhaired LaPerms may need more frequent combing than shorthairs, yet most do not require intensive daily grooming like some heavily coated breeds. A weekly session of combing, nail trimming, and general inspection of their coat, ears, and teeth often works well. Many LaPerms come to enjoy this as special one on one time with their person, especially if you keep the experience calm and rewarding.

One aspect of living with a LaPerm that many owners mention is the emotional connection. These cats often seem very attuned to their humans’ moods. They may snuggle close when you are unwell, sit quietly beside you when you are busy, and spring into playful action when you invite them. This sensitivity is part of what makes them so cherished, but it also means they can be affected by stress and changes in the household. Try to maintain a steady routine and introduce new pets, people, or major changes gradually.

If you are prepared to give time, attention, and mental stimulation, the LaPerm will repay you with loyalty, affection, and many years of companionship. They suit a wide range of homes, from apartments with active owners who prioritise play and interaction, to larger houses with families and other pets. As long as their social and emotional needs are met, LaPerms adapt well and bring a special warmth, wrapped in curls, to daily life.

LaPerm

GCCF - Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (UK)

FIFe - Fédération Internationale Féline

TICA - The International Cat Association

The LaPerm is a medium, athletic cat with a distinctive curly coat ranging from soft waves to tight ringlets. Affectionate and people focused, it follows owners around, enjoys play and training, and suits many homes. Generally healthy and long lived, grooming is moderate and mainly involves gentle combing.

## Quick Facts

- Deeply people oriented, the Burmese often chooses one favorite human and follows them from room to room like a shadow  
- Medium sized yet surprisingly solid, this is a muscular “brick wrapped in silk” rather than a delicate lap cat  
- Known for a soft, husky voice, Burmese cats are talkative but usually less loud than many oriental breeds  
- Short, satin-like coat in rich solid colors that needs very little grooming but shows off every curve of the body  
- Generally playful and kittenish well into adulthood, making them ideal for owners who enjoy interactive cats

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## Appearance & Coat

The Burmese is a medium sized cat, but anyone picking one up for the first time is usually surprised by the weight. Under the smooth coat lies a compact, muscular body with a broad chest and powerful hindquarters. This is not a fine boned, fragile cat. Instead, the Burmese looks and feels sturdy, rounded and athletic, similar in impression to a small, very fit dog. The overall outline should be smooth and curved rather than angular, with rounded head, rounded ears, and large, expressive eyes that give the face an open, almost human expression.

The head is one of the Burmese cat’s defining features. The breed has a short, broad wedge with full cheeks, a strong, well developed chin, and a distinct break in the profile at the nose. The muzzle should not look pointed. Instead, it blends softly into the rest of the face, giving that characteristic “soft” Burmese look. The ears are medium in size, set well apart, and tilt slightly forward as if the cat is listening to you. The eyes are large and luminous, usually in shades of gold or yellow, with a very alert, curious expression that many owners find irresistible.

The coat is short, fine, and lies close to the body. Many people describe the texture as satin-like because it feels incredibly smooth and almost polished when you run your hand along the cat’s back. Unlike some other shorthair breeds, there is no heavy undercoat. This is one reason why the coat is so easy to care for and why the Burmese often feels especially warm to the touch.

Traditional Burmese colors include rich sable (a warm dark brown), chocolate, blue, and lilac, as well as red, cream, and tortoiseshell variations in some registries. The color should appear even, with a slightly lighter shading on the underparts and inside the legs, but without clear tabby markings. Kittens are often lighter and may show faint ghost markings that usually fade as they mature.

Coat care is straightforward, which is one of the reasons the Burmese suits busy households. A weekly gentle grooming session is usually enough. You can simply:

- Run a soft rubber grooming mitt or a chamois over the coat to remove loose hairs  
- Wipe with a slightly damp microfiber cloth to bring out the natural shine  
- Check eyes, ears, and nails during the same session so grooming becomes a relaxed routine

Most Burmese enjoy the extra attention, so grooming can become part bonding session, part health check. During seasonal shedding, you might increase grooming to twice weekly, especially if anyone in the family is sensitive to cat hair. While the Burmese is not hypoallergenic, the short, close coat tends to shed less heavily than some longhaired breeds, which many owners appreciate.

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## Temperament & Personality

Living with a Burmese often feels like sharing your home with a very affectionate, very curious little person. This breed is famous for its close attachment to people. Many Burmese follow their owners around the house, talk to them with soft, throaty chirps, and insist on being involved in whatever is happening. If you like a cat who keeps to itself and prefers quiet contemplation, the Burmese may not be your ideal match. If, on the other hand, you want a confidant that curls on your lap while you work and greets you enthusiastically at the door, the Burmese is hard to beat.

Burmese cats usually enjoy human company to an unusual degree. They tend to form deep bonds and do not like being left alone for long periods. This intense loyalty can feel very rewarding, but it comes with responsibility. A single Burmese left alone all day in an empty house may become bored, anxious, or destructive. Many breeders and experienced owners recommend keeping Burmese in pairs or making sure there is another friendly pet in the home if the family is often away.

With children, the Burmese is generally playful, patient, and interactive. They often enjoy games of fetch, chasing wand toys, or “helping” with homework by sitting on notebooks and keyboards. Their sturdy build helps them cope better with life in a busy household than more fragile breeds, but children still need to be taught how to handle any cat respectfully. Burmese cats usually appreciate gentle, calm handling and are more likely to walk away from rough play than retaliate, which makes them a good choice for families who can teach children basic cat manners.

Around other pets, the Burmese is typically sociable and confident. Many live happily with other cats and even cat friendly dogs. Early introductions done slowly and calmly work best. Because Burmese cats love companionship, they often welcome another active cat that enjoys the same kind of play. They are not usually bullies, but they are not pushovers either and will stand their ground if another animal crowds them.

There are some challenges prospective owners should consider. The Burmese is:

- Talkative, which some people adore, while others may find tiring  
- Highly people focused, so not a good choice for those away for long days without provision for company  
- Clever and persistent, which means they can open cupboards or investigate anything that looks interesting

They thrive in homes where there is time for daily interactive play, conversation, and cuddles. In return, you get a cat that feels like a true family member rather than a quiet background presence.

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## Training & Exercise

The Burmese cat is naturally playful and intelligent, so training is less about making them learn and more about channeling what they already want to do. Many Burmese owners compare their cats to energetic, bright children who always look for the next game. This is excellent news for anyone who enjoys interactive play and teaching tricks, but it also means that a Burmese without enough stimulation can become bored and mischievous.

Exercise needs are moderate to high for a companion cat. The breed is athletic but not as hyperactive as some oriental breeds. Daily play sessions are usually enough to keep an adult Burmese happy and healthy. A good routine might include:

- Two or three short play sessions of 10 to 15 minutes spread throughout the day  
- A mixture of chasing games with a feather wand or fishing rod toy  
- Interactive puzzle feeders that make your cat “hunt” for treats or kibble  
- Occasional fetch games with small soft balls or toys

Because Burmese cats enjoy human interaction, they are often very trainable. Positive reinforcement is key. That means rewarding desired behaviors with small treats, praise, and play, rather than punishing undesired ones. Burmese can learn:

- To come when called  
- To sit or stand on cue  
- To walk into a carrier willingly  
- To use scratching posts instead of furniture  
- Simple agility tasks like jumping through hoops or over low obstacles

Clicker training can work extremely well, as the Burmese quickly connects the sound of the click with a reward. Short, fun training sessions help keep their mind sharp and strengthen the bond between cat and owner. Teaching your Burmese to touch a target stick, for example, can be useful when you need to move them around the house or guide them calmly in stressful situations, such as veterinary visits.

Environmental enrichment is as important as formal training. Burmese cats appreciate vertical space. Sturdy cat trees, window perches, and shelves give them places to climb and observe. They also enjoy variety in their toys. Rotating toys every few days keeps their interest high and prevents boredom. Simple household items can become excellent entertainment: a cardboard box maze, a crinkly paper bag, or a ball of paper rolled across the floor.

Many Burmese adapt well to harness and leash training if it begins early and progresses slowly. Short, supervised garden walks or balcony time can be very enriching, especially for indoor cats. Always ensure the environment is safe and avoid forcing the cat outside if they appear nervous.

Because the Burmese is so people focused, they often pick up bad habits if inadvertently rewarded. For example, if a cat meows at night and the owner gets up to feed or play, the cat learns that noise brings attention. Consistency is vital. Decide house rules early, such as no counter surfing or no waking humans before a certain time, and stick to them kindly but firmly. With patience and structure, a Burmese can become a wonderfully well mannered, entertaining companion.

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## Health

The Burmese is generally a robust, long lived breed, but there are some health considerations that responsible breeders and owners should be aware of. With good care and regular veterinary checks, many Burmese cats live into their mid to late teens, and some reach 18 or older. Understanding potential health issues makes it easier to catch problems early and support a healthy, active life.

Hereditary concerns that are known in Burmese lines include:

- Hypokalaemic polymyopathy, a condition involving low potassium levels that can cause muscle weakness. Responsible breeders test for the genetic mutation and avoid breeding affected cats.  
- Craniofacial defect in certain lines, particularly in some American type Burmese. Breeding programmes in many regions have worked to eliminate this, but it is still something ethical breeders monitor through careful selection.  
- Diabetes mellitus appears to be reported somewhat more frequently in Burmese in some countries compared to the general cat population. A healthy weight, good diet, and regular vet checks can help reduce risk and catch early signs.  
- Dental problems, such as periodontal disease, which are not unique to the breed but can affect them like any cat.

Reputable breeders usually screen their breeding cats for known genetic issues and work with veterinarians to maintain healthy lines. When choosing a kitten, it is reasonable to ask the breeder which tests they perform and whether you can see health records for the parents.

Routine veterinary care is just as important as genetic testing. Burmese cats benefit from:

- Regular vaccinations according to your local vet’s recommendations  
- Annual or twice-yearly health checks, especially for older cats  
- Periodic blood tests and urine checks from middle age onward to monitor kidney, liver, and blood sugar levels  
- Dental checks, with professional cleaning if necessary

Weight management is a practical concern with Burmese cats. Their compact, muscular build can make it harder to notice slow weight gain, and a slightly overweight Burmese may still feel “solid” rather than obviously fat. Obesity increases the risk of diabetes, joint problems, and other illnesses. Feeding a measured quantity of high quality food, avoiding too many treats, and maintaining regular playtime can keep your Burmese lean and fit.

Typical lifespan ranges from 14 to 17 years, although individual cats may live shorter or longer lives depending on genetics, environment, and care. Older Burmese often stay playful and interactive, but owners should be alert to subtle changes such as:

- Drinking or urinating more than usual  
- Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite  
- Reduced activity or reluctance to jump  
- Changes in coat condition or grooming habits

Any of these signs merit a prompt veterinary visit. Early diagnosis is often the key to managing chronic conditions successfully and keeping your cat comfortable.

Pet insurance or a dedicated savings fund is highly recommended. While Burmese are not necessarily more expensive to care for medically than many other purebred cats, modern veterinary treatments can be costly. Planning ahead ensures that you can provide the best care if your cat develops a health problem.

With thoughtful breeding, good diet, a safe environment, and regular veterinary oversight, the Burmese is capable of leading a long, vibrant life as a close member of the family.

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## History & Origins

The story of the Burmese cat begins in Southeast Asia, particularly around present day Myanmar (formerly Burma), Thailand, and neighboring regions. Cats with rich brown coats and golden eyes were known in temple paintings and ancient manuscripts from these areas. They were often associated with monasteries and palaces, and stories described them as cherished companions with almost mystical qualities.

The modern Burmese breed, however, traces back to a specific cat in the early 20th century. In the 1930s, a small walnut brown female cat named Wong Mau arrived in the United States from Burma. She was brought to a veterinary geneticist and cat fancier who was intrigued by her unusual appearance. Wong Mau did not look like the Siamese cats already known in the West, nor did she resemble typical domestic cats. Her owner decided to develop a new breed using Wong Mau as the foundation.

Wong Mau was bred to Siamese cats, and the resulting kittens showed a range of colors and shading. By carefully selecting for the richer brown coat and more compact, rounded body type, breeders gradually fixed the characteristics that we now recognize as the Burmese. Over time, this breeding programme was refined in the United States and then in the United Kingdom, where breeders developed slightly different “types.” The American Burmese tended toward a shorter muzzle and more extreme head type, while the European or British Burmese retained a slightly more moderate look. Various cat registries recognize these differences in their own ways, but all share the same Southeast Asian roots.

From its early days, the Burmese was valued as a companion cat rather than a working or hunting animal. Unlike some breeds that were developed to control vermin on farms, the Burmese was prized for its affectionate nature, striking appearance, and lively character. As the breed gained recognition through cat shows and breed clubs, it spread across Europe, Australia, and beyond.

Today, the Burmese is firmly established on several continents as a much loved pedigree cat. The breed is most often kept as an indoor or indoor with secure outdoor access companion. Many breeders and owners focus on preserving the close, people oriented temperament that made the Burmese popular in the first place, alongside the rich colors and satin coat.

Modern Burmese cats are used primarily for:

- Family companionship in households that appreciate interactive pets  
- Participation in cat shows, where their personality often wins over judges and spectators  
- Breeding programmes that aim to maintain health, type, and temperament

Despite developments and variations in type and color across different regions, the essence of the Burmese remains the same. It is a cat with ancient Southeast Asian roots, refined in the West, and cherished today for its unique blend of elegance, warmth, and character.

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## Living with the Breed

Sharing your home with a Burmese cat is a long term commitment that brings a lot of joy, but it also requires planning and responsibility. This is not a breed that thrives on neglect or long stretches of solitude. Instead, the Burmese fits best with people who genuinely enjoy spending time with their pets and are ready to make the cat a real part of daily life.

New owners should expect a Burmese to be involved in almost everything that happens at home. Preparing dinner, working at a computer, reading on the sofa, or watching television all become shared activities. Instead of quietly sleeping in another room, your Burmese is likely to curl on your lap, perch on the back of your chair, or gently tap your hand to ask for attention. For many, this deep companionship is exactly what they are looking for. For others who prefer a more independent cat, it might feel overwhelming.

Time commitment is significant. While you do not need to entertain a Burmese every waking moment, you should set aside at least an hour a day for direct interaction. This can be broken into smaller segments that fit your routine. Morning playtime with a wand toy, a cuddle session in the evening, and a few scattered moments of conversation and petting during the day often suit both cat and owner.

Financially, caring for a Burmese is similar to other pedigree cats. Initial costs include:

- Purchase price from a reputable breeder, which will vary by country  
- Neutering or spaying if not already done  
- Vaccinations, microchipping, and parasite control in the first year  
- Essential equipment such as litter trays, scratching posts, food bowls, a carrier, and a sturdy cat tree

Ongoing annual costs will cover high quality food, routine veterinary care, booster vaccinations if advised by your vet, parasite prevention, pet insurance or a savings plan for emergencies, litter, and replacement toys or bedding. Investing in durable, well designed scratching posts and cat trees pays off in the long run and helps protect your furniture. Many homeowners find that a tall sisal covered scratching post placed near favorite resting spots quickly becomes the preferred scratching area.

Useful equipment for a Burmese household includes:

- At least one large, stable cat tree to climb and perch on  
- Various scratching surfaces, such as vertical posts and horizontal boards  
- A selection of interactive toys that encourage chasing, pouncing, and problem solving  
- Puzzle feeders or slow feeders to add mental challenge to mealtimes  
- A secure, comfortable carrier for travel and vet visits

Because of their sociable nature, many Burmese do well as indoor cats if the home environment is stimulating enough. Secure outdoor enclosures, cat proofed balconies, or supervised garden time on a harness can provide extra enrichment. Free roaming outdoors is often not recommended, especially in busy urban or suburban areas, because these trusting cats may not be streetwise and can be at greater risk from traffic or theft.

Prospective owners should also think about future life changes. Burmese cats can live 15 years or more, so consider whether you are ready to care for a companion through moves, changes in work schedule, or family additions. They generally adapt well to new situations as long as they feel supported by their people, but sudden long absences or major disruptions without preparation can be stressful.

In day to day life, living with a Burmese means laughter, conversation, and a sense of being closely accompanied. This breed tends to sleep in bed with its humans, join in family routines, and welcome guests with curiosity rather than fear. If you are looking for a cat that shares your life in a very active way, the Burmese can be a wonderful choice, provided you are ready to offer time, attention, and a secure, enriching home for many years to come.

Burmese

GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy)

Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe)

Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) UK

The Danish Cat Club

Norwegian Forest Cat Club

The Burmese is a medium, muscular cat with a short, satin coat in rich solid colors and large golden eyes. Affectionate and people focused, it often follows a favorite person, enjoys play and training, dislikes long solitude, and usually stays lively and social into old age.

LaPerm vs Burmese

Characteristics

Summary

Similar breeds