The Burmilla is a medium-sized domestic cat characterized by a muscular and elegant body. Its rounded top head, medium-broad muzzle, well-developed chin, and shape of the nose give it a well-proportioned body. It has medium to large ears that have a somewhat rounded tip while its large green eyes are outlined with black. This cat can have two types of coat – the shorthair and the semi-longhair.
Quick Information
Physical Appearance & Size
Weight: | 6.6-13 lbs |
Height: | 12-14 inches |
Colors & Patterns
Coat: | Short or medium length, soft, and dense double coat |
Color: | Silver coat shaded in cream, red, lilac, blue, black, chocolate, caramel, apricot, blue tortie, black-tortie, caramel tortie, or lilac tortie |
Other Characteristics
Other Names | Semi-longhairs are called Tiffanies |
Group of Breed: | Domestic |
Lifespan (Life Expectancy): | 13-17 years |
Personality Traits: | Intelligent, sociable, affectionate |
Shedding: | Low to moderate |
Good with children: | Yes |
Vocalization (Noise): | Medium |
Hypoallergenic: | Not known |
Country of Origin: | UK |
Competitive Registration/Qualification Information: | FIFe, CFA, CCA, ACF |
History and Origin
Four burmilla female kittens were first produced in 1981 in the United Kingdom, when a male Chinchilla Persian, called Sanquist, accidentally mated with a female lilac Burmese, called Faberge. Both these cats, owned by the Baroness Miranda Kirchberg, were awaiting their partners in different rooms. However, the female burmese managed to escape through the door that was unintentionally left open by the cleaner, and successfully mated with the male chinchilla, producing the first litter. The burmilla kittens were so attractive and cute that the Baroness decided to use them in developing a new breed.
Temperament
Having a mischievous and demanding personality of a burmese combined with the laid-back behavior of a chinchilla, it shows exceptional friendliness and playfulness. Since it is a fun loving, sweet-natured, and sociable cat, it is compatible with small children and other pets in the family. Faithful and friendly by nature, this cat likes to spend time with its owner giving company in loneliness. It loves human attention, often demanding to be cuddled and caressed. Although it does not mingle with the strangers instantly, it eventually greets them in a friendly way.
Care
Although it does not need intensive grooming, its coat should be brushed thoroughly once a week to keep away dead hairs. If you see dirt in its ears, use a damp cloth to clean them. Ensure optimal periodontal health in your feline pet by brushing its teeth every week.
Known to be a healthy and robust breed, these cats do not contract any severe diseases. However, they sometimes suffer from Polycystic Kidney Disease, a fatal ailment that often causes renal failure in their chinchilla Persian parent. Taking your pet to an experienced vet to immunize against potential diseases is advisable.
Since this is not an overly active breed, it requires sufficient physical activities for burning off calories, as also for managing weight gain. Make sure that your cat gets 30 minutes of playtime regularly. Interactive playing, including the games of fetch, are some of its favorites. Cat toys like an indoor climbing-frame and a scratching post could be given to keep it busy.
Training
Due to its smart disposition, it can be easily trained. Like most of the other cat breeds, normal training is essential to make the kittens learn how to live with their family, to socialize, and to develop good manners.
Feeding
It is not at all finicky about what it eats. Apart from providing quality brand dry foods, give a balanced diet consisting of ham, chicken, and grated cheese. Provide adequate quantities of fresh water but avoid giving it milk, since it could cause stomach upset.
Interesting Facts
- In the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF), a burmilla cat is considered a member of the Asian breed.
- It does not mellow down even in adulthood.