Burmillas thrive on a high-quality, protein-rich diet that supports their muscular build and active nature. These cats aren't typically prone to obesity like some breeds, but portion control remains important - especially for indoor cats in Australian apartments who might not get as much natural exercise.

Choose a premium commercial cat food with real meat as the first ingredient, avoiding fillers like corn or wheat. Many Australian pet specialty stores stock excellent local and imported brands that meet these requirements. Adult Burmillas typically need about 200-300g of wet food daily, divided into two meals, though this varies based on age, activity level, and individual metabolism.

During Australia's hot summer months, particularly in humid areas like the Gold Coast or Darwin, cats often eat less and drink more. Always provide fresh, clean water - consider a water fountain to encourage drinking, as proper hydration is crucial for kidney health given their predisposition to PKD.

If you're in regional Australia where premium cat food might be less accessible, online delivery services have made quality nutrition much more convenient. Just ensure you're buying from reputable suppliers and checking use-by dates.

Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calories. Many Burmillas enjoy interactive feeding toys or puzzle feeders, which provide mental stimulation while slowing down eating - perfect for these intelligent, curious cats who need engagement throughout the day.

The Burmilla's grooming needs are refreshingly straightforward, making them ideal for busy Australian families. Their dense, silky coat requires brushing just once or twice weekly with a soft bristle brush or fine-toothed comb - their coat is surprisingly delicate despite its plush appearance.

Expect moderate shedding year-round, with increased hair loss during spring and autumn as they adjust to Australia's changing seasons. Darwin and Brisbane owners might notice more consistent shedding due to stable temperatures, while Melbourne and Sydney families will see distinct seasonal patterns. A good lint roller becomes your best friend, especially if you favour dark clothing!

During shedding seasons, daily brushing helps manage loose hair and prevents it from decorating your furniture. Pay special attention to their stunning eyes - those dramatic dark markings mean the eye area can collect debris, so gently clean with a damp cloth or cotton pad soaked in cooled tea.

Their ears need weekly attention, which is particularly important in humid coastal areas where wax buildup occurs more readily. Use a vet-approved ear cleaner and soft cloth - never cotton buds, which can damage the ear canal.

Coat Specifications:

- Coat Length: Short to semi-long, dense double-layered coat with silky texture

- Coat Colours: Silver-white base with tipping or shading in black, blue, chocolate, cream, lilac, red, caramel, apricot, and various tortoiseshell combinations

- Coat Patterns: Either tipped (light colour over silver undercoat) or shaded (darker colour on back, shoulders, and outer legs)

- Hypoallergenic: No - they produce normal levels of allergens and shed moderately

Burmillas are intelligent cats who enjoy mental stimulation, but they're not the type you can formally train like a dog. Instead, they learn through play and positive interaction - think of it as collaborative entertainment rather than traditional training. These clever cats often work out puzzle feeders and interactive toys on their own, making them perfect for Australian families who want an engaging pet without the intensive training commitment.

Their playful nature means they'll often invent their own games, especially if you're working from home in your Sydney apartment or Brisbane townhouse. Provide cat trees, scratching posts, and rotating toy selection to prevent boredom. Many Burmillas enjoy fetch-like games - they'll bring you their favourite toy mouse and drop it at your feet, ready for another round.

Socialisation is crucial, particularly since they can be initially wary of strangers. Regular, positive exposure to different people, sounds, and situations during kittenhood helps develop their confidence. If you live in a busy area like inner Melbourne or Perth's bustling suburbs, this early socialisation pays dividends in creating a well-adjusted adult cat.

These cats thrive on routine and can become stressed by sudden changes, so if you're planning a move across Australia or major household changes, introduce them gradually. They're observant enough to pick up on your moods and schedules, often appearing for their evening play session right when you finish work - it's like having a furry personal assistant who actually enjoys their job!