Birman

Size:

Grooming:

Exercise Level:

Trainability:

Good with Children:

Good with other pets:

Affectionate:

Weight: 3 - 5kg M | 3 - 5kg F

Life Expectancy: 12 - 16 Years

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Introduction

The charming and ethereal Birman originated in Burma and is known as its “sacred cat”. Its silky, seal-pointed coat and baby blue eyes are the hallmarks of its breed. These traits, along with its captivatingly affectionate ways, also appeal to many cat fanciers. As such, it is popular as a companion in the home.

Are you up for owning a Birman? Here is a brief background of this incredibly attractive cat otherwise known as the Sacred Cat of Burma.

History

Legend says the “Sacred Cat of Burma” was given its wonderful coat and eyes as a reward for being loyal to a temple priest. Originating in Burma (present-day Myanmar), where it served as temple cats, the Birman is an old breed. But it was only in the early 1900s that this feline reached Western shores. It allegedly reached France as rewards for a favour done to a temple or through smuggling efforts. It was later shown in the country in the 1920s.

The Birman nearly went extinct during World War II in Europe. However, it was rescued through the efforts of a number of breeders, who outcrossed the remaining cats to Persians and Siamese. After it was finally restored, the breed was then acknowledged by the GCCF in 1966. However, the blue point Birman emerged in 1959 and the chocolate point Birman was developed in later years.

Appearance and Grooming

The Birman’s size ranges from medium to large, and its body is rather rectangular. Its head is rounded and broad, with medium-sized ears and full cheeks. Its widely-spaced eyes are a stunning shade of bright blue, which has a gentle expression that is rather endearing.

It has a long body that is solid-boned and supported by thick legs that end in strong yet short paws. The feet are notably white, as if wearing socks. Its tail is very bushy but proportionate to the rest of its frame. As such, this kitty has a rather balanced look.

Its lovely, single-layer coat is light coloured and seal-pointed like the Siamese. Its fur is long, silky, and very soft to the touch. It is wonderfully not prone to mat but still needs to be brushed to keep it in tip-top condition. This feline’s coat comes in a wide variety of colours, although all Birman kittens are born white. Their colour points begin developing at 2 weeks old and fully emerge at about 2 years old.

Temperament and Intelligence

The Birman cat temperament is calm, sweet, and well-mannered. It is easy to handle and loves attention. As such, it is a popular feline among cat fanciers in various parts of the planet. It likes being around its owners and is very friendly. It is known to get along with other pets, be they canine or fellow feline.

This cat breed likes to know of the goings-on in the home and does not like to be left to its own devices for long. It also likes to keep itself occupied during its waking hours, making toys and other accessories a necessary addition to its environment.

When the Birman speaks, it does so with chirps. Although it is not a demanding pet, it will let its owners know when it needs attention through gestures.

Nutrition and Feeding

The Birman should be provided a nutritious diet that fulfils its daily requirements. It should be consistently given the same food following the same feeding times. If there are changes to its diet, those must be done gradually to prevent digestive upset.

The serving portions should depend on this breed’s weight, age, and activity level. Its meals must include at least 25% protein and just 5% carbohydrates.

Health and Exercise

Birmans are relatively healthy with a longevity of 12-16 years. They do not have known major genetic conditions. They may develop health issues common to regular cat breeds such as obesity, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, and kidney diseases.

Obesity is a common problem in many cat breeds, including the Birman. It is a major health concern as it could lead to other serious illnesses such as kidney dysfunction or heart problems. Since the Birman is not a very active cat, make sure that it exercises regularly.

Unlike other cat breeds, Birmans would rather explore low levels over climbing high places. Birmans normally prefer to lounge with their owners. They are curious cats that like to interact and tend to follow their people around the house. Owners must engage them in interactive games such as fetch or chase to keep them from gaining weight.

Cost of Ownership

You can acquire a healthy Birman Cat for around £700–£1200. Her diet should be composed of high-quality cat food that caters to her nutritional needs. Its monthly cost can range from £20–£55.

Providing your Birman Cat with her basic necessities such as cat toys will help her settle down quickly in her new home. The total expenses can be anywhere from £50–£400.

Vaccinations are a must for young Birman kittens to safeguard them from highly infectious diseases. Expect to spend approximately £40–£100 for the vaccine shots.

Do not forget to administer parasite preventatives to reduce your pet’s vulnerability to ailments. The prices for flea treatments run from £50–£60 whilst £60–£120 for heartworm treatments.

Keeping up with regular vet visits is necessary to ensure that your Birman Cat has a long and healthy life. The vet may charge around £30–£60 for every check-up session.

Offset your pet's vet care expenses by acquiring pet insurance. A time-limited coverage has a monthly fee of approximately £6–£15 whilst over £10 for a lifetime coverage.

Birman Breed Highlights

The “Sacred Cat from Burma” is a very loving and gentle pet. It is a wonderful addition for families who can fulfil its need for continual company.
This feline’s coat does not mat but needs to be brushed every so often to keep it looking beautiful.
It does not like to be left alone for long.
It speaks in a soft chirping voice and is not known to be talkative.