Personality and Temperament
Also known as the sacred cat of Burma, the Birman cat is a large, long-haired breed with a heavy bone structure. Most of these cats exceed 12 pounds once they reach adulthood. Birman cats tend to be quiet, a bit shy with strangers, and they can be somewhat reserved even with people they know well. They have a tendency to attach themselves to a single person, so if you're someone who's looking for a loyal cat that loves you above all others, the Birman might be for you!
Birman cats have soft, silky fur in a creamy, pale eggshell color. Darker points similar to the markings on a Siamese are present, along with white “mitts” or snowshoe feet. Stunning blue eyes are another unique feature of the Birman cat breed.
Care
Nutrition
Grooming
Exercise
Health
Birman cats do not have any special nutritional requirements, however they thrive on high-protein diets. We recommend feeding your Birman cat a high-quality cat food.
Even though Birman cats have long hair, they are relatively easy to care for compared with many other long-haired cat breeds. The Birman cat's hair is fine and silky, with a single coat that is not prone to matting. Routine brushing – at least once daily – will help keep this kitty's coat in great shape and provide both of you with a pleasant bonding experience.
You may also wish to brush your cat's teeth, and you may want to keep their toenails trimmed.
Birman cats need plenty of exercise each day and you may need to help them get it. These cats love to lounge; however, they will happily play with toys when encouraged to do so. A cat tree is ideal for napping, but it's also essential for stretching and climbing.
Catnip infused toys can bring out this normally sedate feline's playful side!
While the Birman cat has a reputation for overall good health, these kitties can be prone to obesity. Keep your cat active, and make sure that you are offering an appropriate, high-protein diet to help your cat maintain a healthy, comfortable weight.
History
Many cats come with unique stories attached, but the Birman is unique in that the breed is surrounded in mystery. As the legend goes, a Kittah priest called Mun-Ha was worshiping at the Temple of Lao-Tsun, accompanied by a white temple cat named Sinh.
Raiders entered the temple and killed Mun-Ha. As the priest lay dying, Sinh placed his feet on his body and faced the goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse. The cat was transformed; his body turns to a golden color, his eyes turned blue, and his legs changed to brown. His feet remained white where they touched his master. Legend says that the Birman cat's white feet are a symbol of purity. At the same time, the rest of the temple cats were transformed, taking on the same appearance as Sinh.
The temple of Lao-Tsun was actually raided again in 1919. Two men, Major Gordon Russell and Auguste Pavie, came to the aid of the priests. As a gesture of gratitude, the priests gave the men a breeding pair of Birman cats, which were transported to France. It is believed that many Birman foundation cats were Siamese.
Sadly, the end of World War II saw only one pair of Birman cats remaining alive, even though the breed had begun to gain popularity. By the 1960s though, there were enough Birman cats to allow for importation into England. The breed gained popularity, and by 1966, was officially recognized by British cat fancy associations.
The first Birman cats arrived in America in 1959 and CFA granted the breed official recognition in 1967.
Eyes
Legs & Paws
Tail
The Breed Standard
Body
Head
Ears
Coat
Color
FAQ
How much does a Birman cat cost?
Birman cats cost between $400 - $1,000.
How big do Birman cats get?
Birman cats tend to be medium in size. A fully grown Birman cat might weigh between 6-14 pounds or more and range in height anywhere from about 8"-11" inches tall.
How long do Birman cats live?
The Average lifespan for Birman is 12-16 years.
Do Birman cats shed?
Birman are long-haired cats, so you do have to expect a certain amount of shedding from this breed, but they don't shed as much as other cat breeds.
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What brand of wet foods are best for birman Cats. I feed mine, tiki cats are they a good brand,gluetin and grain free
Tiki Cat is a great choice! Your Birman cat has roughly the same nutritional requirements as any other cat. A high-protein, high-moisture, low-carbohydrate diet like Tiki Cat is as good a choice for a Birman as any other cat.
Grew up with a Birman. Best cat ever. Never scratched any furniture. Always took turns with all of his people in the house. Everyone had a dedicated time he would go spend time with them. He was very beloved. Poor thing got dementia and kidney issues. Had to be put down at 19. He was replaced because my mom couldn’t be without one. And I now have my own. Every Birman is unique and has their own personality. They are so much fun.
I would like to have some information on the Berman cats. I like the cream point and the red point Birman . I would like the price range of the average Berman cat.
I have a seal point Birman which is 18 1/2 years old.
Unfortunately, I had to euthanize her .
I’m sorry about your loss.