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Birman Cats
Breed Rating (2 Reviews)
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History
It is thought that the Birman cat breed has its roots deep in Burma where they were kept by burmese priests and considered to be sacred cats. There are a few legends surrounding the Birman cat, one of which states that a Birman cat once saved a sacred temple from destruction. Another legend tells the story of a pure white cat with golden eyes that guarded its holy priest master. When its master passed away it is believed that the priest’s pure soul was passed into the cat and is why the Birmans feet are completely white. In the early 20th century it is thought that two of these cats- one of whom was pregnant- were taken from Burma and transported to France. It is from here that the breed truly developed into what it is today.
The Birman cat was first recognised as a breed in 1925, however the breed suffered through the second world war and there were only a few individuals left in France. After the war breeding programmes were set up to try and bring the breed back from the brink. Thankfully these breeding programmes were successful and today the Birman is a popular breed.
Behaviour
The Birman cat is a relaxed, gentle, but affectionate cat. This cat has a laidback nature and will be happy living on its own or with other cats and pets. Birmans can be chatty with encouragement but many individuals are quiet and calm. This is an affectionate breed that will happily curl up on its owners lap and enjoy being stroked.
Varieties
All colour points with white feet.
Breed Details
- Status: Common
- Place of Origin: Myanmar
- Rough date of Origin: 1920s
- Hair length: Longhair
- Activity Level: Medium
- Vocalness: Low
- Child friendly: Good with children
- Intelligence:
- Playfullness: Relaxed
- Grooming Requirements: Once a week
- Weight: 4.5 - 8.0kg
- Size: Medium
- House Cat or Outdoor Cat: House Cat
- Pet Compatibility:
- Social Needs:
More to love
Birman Pictures
Latest Reviews For Birman (2 of 2)
Birman cats are awesome - Josie,
Had my little boy for 15 years. The best cat ever, my son trained him to roll over, loved his tummy tickled, would run to greet me when I arrived home and could sense when you weren’t feeling right by snuggling up with you until you fell asleep! He was simply a dog in a cat suit. Oh, and they love feet! All of them! The best cat ever. Initially a house cat, he escaped one day. After that, he loved the out doors and it was the making of him. Miss him terribly.
Mischief - Catherine,
My Birman had an inbred lineage. This was the 1970s and recent ancestors included founders of the breed from Germany and France. Thus he wasn’t a healthy boy compared to my moggy and never reached full size. But he was affectionate with a sense of humour and mischief. I do miss him even today