How to Identify A Burman Cat

The Burman or Birman cat is shrouded in mystery. Very little is known about its history although they are considered a sacred animal among certain Buddhist priests. There are very vivid legends involving the monks of Burma and these cats, who were kept nearby as they were believed to be capable of carrying the souls of the dead to their next stage of existence. Another quirk is that Burma's will have a name beginning with a certain letter based on the year they were born. This continuously rotates and allows the owner to keep track of the cat's age. A pair of them were brought to France in 1919 and those two form the basis of the modern day Burmans, which one can purchase from a pet store or breeder. This guide will explain how to recognize a Burman cat and what to look for in a pedigree showcat.

Things You'll Need

  • A Cat
  • Your Eyes
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Instructions

  1. Recognizing a Burman Cat

    • 1

      Look at the build. A Burman should have a long body with a thick stocky head and middle with wide shoulders. Though considered a large breed, the Burman will typically be anywhere between 6 and 15 pounds in weight. The males are usually above ten pounds and the females below.

    • 2

      Look at the cat's coat. This is a long-haired breed, but its coat is packed tightly with short insulating hairs with the longer hairs toward the extremities. Also look for a thick ruff on the front of the chest up to the throat and around the neck.

    • 3

      Check the cat's eyes. Pedigree Burmans often have dazzling blue eyes.

    • 4

      Look at the cat's head. A Burman will have a short neck and a wide, thick head. Their snouts are short and often underpronounced.

    • 5

      Study the cat's coloring. Burmans come in a few different colors, but it always follows a strict pattern. Their fur is often a pale cream or white and darkens to grey or tan as if runs down the tail and legs. The tips of their ears are often dark grey, tan, or black. The face is always an oval of dark fur surrounded by a light colored head to match the body. Though it is not required, perfect white paws that look like gloves are often looked for in show cats.

    • 6

      Conclude that if the cat matches these criteria it's likely a Burman. Such cats are rare and usually only sold by breeders. If you happen across one, it’s a very lucky find.