Burmese
The Good
- Incredibly loyal and forms deep bonds with their humans
- Excellent with children and other pets when properly socialised
- Highly trainable and intelligent, can learn tricks and commands
- Low-maintenance grooming needs with their silky short coat
The Real
- Cannot handle being left alone for long periods - may develop separation anxiety
- Can be quite vocal and demanding when they want attention
- Higher risk of certain genetic health conditions like diabetes
- Need consistent mental stimulation or they can become destructive
Gallery
Breed Overview
If you're looking for a feline companion that acts more like a devoted dog than an aloof cat, the Burmese might just be your perfect match. These medium-sized beauties are the ultimate "people cats" - they'll follow you from the kitchen to the lounge room, supervise your work-from-home video calls, and absolutely insist on being involved in every aspect of your daily life.
Originally descended from sacred temple cats in Myanmar, the modern Burmese was developed in 1930s America but has found a devoted following across Australia. These muscular, compact cats typically weigh between 3.5-6.5 kg and sport gorgeous golden eyes that seem to see right into your soul. Their short, silky coat comes in beautiful colours ranging from rich sable to soft champagne, platinum, and blue variations.
What truly sets Burmese cats apart is their extraordinary social nature. They're renowned for their dog-like devotion, often greeting their humans at the door, playing fetch, and even walking on leads. These aren't cats that will ignore you for hours - they want to be your constant companion, making them ideal for families who spend plenty of time at home but perhaps challenging for busy professionals who work long hours away from the house.
History
The Burmese breed carries an air of ancient mystique, with legends suggesting these cats were considered sacred in Myanmar's temples and monasteries centuries ago. However, the modern Burmese story begins in 1930 with a remarkable cat named Wong Mau, who arrived in San Francisco courtesy of a sailor returning from Burma (now Myanmar).
Wong Mau caught the attention of Dr. Joseph G. Thompson, who was intrigued by her unique walnut-brown coat with darker points and more compact build compared to Siamese cats. Dr. Thompson embarked on a careful breeding programme, pairing Wong Mau with Tai Mau, a seal point Siamese. The resulting kittens showed fascinating variations - some resembled Siamese cats, while others displayed the distinctive Burmese characteristics we recognise today.
When Wong Mau was later bred to one of her sons, the litters produced kittens in varying shades of brown, with the darkest becoming the foundation of the modern Burmese breed. This selective breeding established the genetic foundation that would eventually spread worldwide.
The breed gained official recognition from major cat associations throughout the mid-20th century, with the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy recognising them in 1952 and The International Cat Association following suit in 1979. Today, there are two distinct varieties - American Burmese and European (British) Burmese - both sharing the same loving temperament but with subtle differences in build and accepted colours.
Traits & Characteristics
Burmese characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Burmese cats are generally robust and healthy, with lifespans averaging 10-17 years, though some can live up to 18 years with proper care. However, like all purebreds, they're predisposed to certain genetic conditions that prospective owners should be aware of.
The most significant concern is diabetes mellitus, affecting up to 10% of Burmese cats - significantly higher than the general feline population. This condition is manageable with proper diet, weight management, and potentially insulin therapy, but it requires ongoing veterinary care and monitoring. Watch for increased thirst, frequent urination, and changes in appetite.
Feline orofacial pain syndrome (FOPS) is another breed-specific condition causing severe facial and mouth pain. While there's no cure, pain management strategies can help affected cats live comfortably. Hypokalemic polymyopathy, a genetic muscle weakness condition, can be detected through DNA testing, so reputable breeders should provide health clearances.
Another less common but serious genetic condition is GM2 Gangliosidosis, a fatal neurological disorder. Fortunately, a reliable DNA test is available, and responsible breeders screen their cats to prevent passing on this disease. Always ensure your breeder can provide proof of negative test results for their breeding cats.
Australian Climate Considerations: During Sydney's sweltering 35°C+ summer days, ensure your Burmese has access to air conditioning or cooling mats, as their compact build can make them prone to overheating. In Melbourne's unpredictable weather, provide warm bedding during those chilly 5°C mornings. Brisbane's humidity can exacerbate breathing issues due to their slightly shortened nose structure, so ensure good ventilation. Perth owners should be particularly vigilant about tick prevention, while those in rural Queensland need to be snake-aware when allowing supervised outdoor time.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential, and considering pet insurance early can help manage potential diabetes-related costs, which can be significant in Australia's veterinary market.
Burmese cats require high-quality nutrition to fuel their active lifestyles and maintain their muscular build. These energetic felines do best on protein-rich diets that meet AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for their life stage - though Australian pet food standards follow similar guidelines through our own regulatory bodies.
Adult Burmese should be fed twice daily rather than free-feeding, as they're not always great at self-regulating their intake. Their naturally stocky build can make it challenging to spot weight gain, so regular body condition scoring with your vet is crucial. Given their predisposition to diabetes, maintaining a healthy weight is absolutely essential - obesity significantly increases diabetes risk in this already susceptible breed.
Kittens need more frequent meals and higher calorie density to support their rapid growth spurts. Whether you choose premium dry kibble, wet food, or a combination, ensure it's specifically formulated for your cat's life stage. Many Canberra and Adelaide owners find success with high-protein, low-carbohydrate diets that help maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Australian Considerations: During Perth's hot summers, wet food can provide extra hydration, while Darwin residents might need to store dry food in airtight containers to prevent humidity damage. The National Alliance of Burmese Breeders suggests rotating food brands occasionally to prevent finicky eating habits - something that resonates well with Australia's diverse premium pet food market.
Always transition foods gradually over 7-10 days, and consult with your local vet about the best feeding strategy for your individual cat, especially given the breed's diabetes predisposition.
One of the Burmese's most appealing characteristics is their incredibly low-maintenance grooming needs. Their short, fine coat has an almost satin-like quality that rarely mats or tangles, making them perfect for busy Australian families or first-time cat owners who might feel overwhelmed by high-maintenance breeds.
A weekly brush with a rubber grooming mitt or soft bristle brush is typically sufficient to remove loose hairs and maintain that gorgeous glossy shine. During spring and autumn shedding seasons - particularly noticeable in Melbourne's variable climate - you might want to increase brushing to twice weekly. The good news is that Burmese cats shed significantly less than many other breeds, so your black work clothes should survive relatively unscathed.
These fastidiously clean cats handle most of their grooming themselves, but regular nail trims, ear checks, and dental care are essential. Brisbane's humidity can sometimes contribute to ear issues, so Gold Coast owners should pay particular attention to keeping ears clean and dry. Weekly eye wipes with a damp cloth help prevent any tear staining around those beautiful golden eyes.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Short and fine with a silky, satin-like texture that lies close to the body
- Coat Colours: Sable (rich brown), champagne (honey-beige), platinum (silvery-grey), blue (warm grey), plus tortoiseshell variations in European lines
- Coat Patterns: Solid colours with subtle shading, darker points may be present
- Hypoallergenic: No - while low-shedding, they still produce the Fel d 1 protein that triggers allergies
The minimal grooming requirements make Burmese cats excellent for apartment dwellers across Sydney's inner suburbs or busy families juggling school runs and weekend sports commitments.
Here's where Burmese cats truly shine - their intelligence and eagerness to please make them surprisingly trainable for felines. Many owners successfully teach their Burmese to walk on leads, perfect for exploring Melbourne's cat-friendly parks or securing balcony time in Sydney apartments with body corporate restrictions.
These clever cats excel at interactive puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys, which provide essential mental stimulation while slowing down enthusiastic eaters. Their natural curiosity and problem-solving abilities mean they'll quickly figure out how to open cupboards, drawers, and even some door handles - childproofing might extend to cat-proofing in Burmese households!
Clicker training works wonderfully with this breed. Start with simple commands like "sit" or "come," using their favourite treats or play sessions as rewards. Many Perth owners have successfully taught their Burmese to fetch, while Adelaide families often find their cats naturally gravitating toward family activities, making socialisation effortless.
Vertical space is crucial - invest in tall cat trees for climbing and perching, especially important for apartment living across Brisbane's high-rise suburbs. Window perches provide hours of entertainment watching birds and street activity, while rotating toys weekly prevents boredom.
Social Enrichment: These people-focused cats thrive on interaction, so involve them in your daily routines. They'll happily "help" with cooking, supervise home office work, and participate in family movie nights. If you're working from home - increasingly common across Australian cities - your Burmese will likely become your most dedicated colleague, though perhaps not the most productive one!
Regular play sessions are essential for burning energy and preventing destructive behaviour when boredom strikes.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Burmese owner is someone who genuinely wants a feline shadow and constant companion. If you're dreaming of a cat who'll greet you at the door after work, curl up beside you during Netflix marathons, and follow you around your Brisbane townhouse or Sydney apartment, a Burmese could be your ideal match.
These cats suit families who spend considerable time at home - whether that's work-from-home professionals, retirees enjoying their newfound freedom, or families with school-age children who provide constant entertainment. They're particularly wonderful for households in Melbourne's outer suburbs where someone's usually home, or Perth families with flexible work arrangements.
However, Burmese cats are definitely not suited to busy professionals who regularly work 10-hour days or frequent business travellers. FIFO workers or shift workers with irregular schedules might find this breed too demanding unless there's another family member or pet to provide companionship.
They're excellent for rental properties, as their quiet nature and minimal shedding make them appealing to landlords. Body corporate regulations in apartment complexes rarely object to these well-behaved, indoor-suitable cats. First-time cat owners often find Burmese cats rewarding due to their dog-like responsiveness and clear communication of their needs.
Multi-generational households work brilliantly - grandparents often become devoted Burmese companions, while teenagers enjoy their playful, interactive nature. These cats also suit empty nesters looking for a devoted companion to fill quieter homes across Adelaide's leafy suburbs or Canberra's family neighbourhoods.
Interesting facts about the Burmese
Interesting Fact
The founding mother of all modern Burmese cats was named Wong Mau, brought from Burma to San Francisco by a sailor in 1930
Interesting Fact
Burmese cats were considered sacred in ancient Myanmar temples and monasteries
Interesting Fact
They're often called "dog-cats" due to their tendency to follow owners around and their trainability
Interesting Fact
Some Burmese cats naturally play fetch without any training required
FAQ
Absolutely! Burmese cats are exceptionally friendly and social. They actively seek out human and pet companionship, making them excellent family cats who genuinely enjoy interaction with everyone in the household.
While generally healthy, Burmese cats are predisposed to diabetes mellitus (affecting up to 10% of the breed), muscle weakness conditions, and feline orofacial pain syndrome. Responsible breeding and regular vet check-ups help manage these risks effectively.
Expect to pay between $800-$1,500 AUD for a Burmese kitten from a reputable breeder, with rare colours like blue commanding higher prices. Factor in ongoing costs like pet insurance, which is particularly wise given their diabetes predisposition.
Yes, they're excellent apartment cats! Their moderate size, low shedding, and quiet nature make them ideal for unit living across Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. Just ensure they have plenty of interaction and entertainment to prevent boredom.
Very minimal - a weekly brush with a rubber mitt is sufficient for their short, silky coat. During seasonal shedding periods (spring/autumn), twice weekly brushing helps manage loose hairs, but they're one of the lowest-maintenance breeds for grooming.
They generally handle heat well but need air conditioning or cooling options during extreme temperatures above 35°C. Their short coat helps with heat management, though their compact build means they can overheat faster than some breeds.
Excellent! Burmese cats are renowned for their gentle, patient nature with children and typically integrate well with other cats and even dogs. They're often recommended for families specifically because of their tolerant, social personalities.
This is their biggest challenge - Burmese cats struggle with long periods alone and may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviours. They're best suited to households where someone's usually home or where they have another pet companion.