The Burmese Cat - A Profile

The Burmese cat has been described as the most perfect pet cat. The Burmese is an excellent cat for people who enjoy an active and friendly cat. He's a cat that likes company, but can amuse himself if need be. The Burmese cat is remarkably placid and free from temperamental behavior common to the Siamese, but the Burmese is just as, or more, intelligent than the Siamese. Burmese are dignified and self-reliant animals. Burmese are also resourceful and very adaptable. They make excellent pets for singles, older folks and shut-ins. Burmese are self-confident, curiosity prone and seem to have a capacity for logical thinking and problem solving. They can be taught or will self-learn how to play fetch. And, last but not least, the Burmese have big soulful, gold eyes guaranteed to melt even the most resistant heart. It takes but a few short days for a newly acquired Burmese to con it's new owner out of everything the owner possesses.

The very first Burmese were a warm walnut-brown color. Until recently, the Burmese was the only brown cat, and that made them unique. Therefore, most early Burmese breeders decided that the Burmese should be brown, and bred them accordingly. Breeders have to come to realize that the Burmese is unique for other reasons besides it's color. In the United States there are four colors of Burmese. The dark brown is known as Sable, and is the most common color. The honey-tan, known as Champagne, is the second most common color. The dark bluish gray known as Blue, which differs from other blue cats as the fawn undertones may be seen reflected in the sunlight. The blue is extremely rare. And finally, a silvery-tan with a pinkish cast is known as the Platinum. Platinum is also a rare color Burmese.

The best way to find a Burmese is to do what you are doing now. Also, visit a cat show, pick up cards, and talk with the people showing Burmese. Watch the Burmese being judged so you will know what a good Burmese should look like. Most of the show cats have little brothers and sisters at home waiting for adoptive parents. Do Not Buy a Burmese from a Pet Shop! Pet shops abound in disease and no ethical breeder would subject his or her babies to such a place.

Whether you choose a male or a female depends upon your personal preference. Generally, an older, established cat will welcome an opposite-sex kitten more readily than a same-sex kitten.

The male Burmese is usually quieter than the female. He is dog-like in his affection. Males roll, wiggle, rub, grin and purr in response to even the slightest attention from their people. Males are more even-tempered than females, and are also more devoted and dependent on their owners. These are the characteristics of a neutered male cat.

The female Burmese, being more moody, is also more interesting and more taxing on one's patience. She will sulk and spurn you one minute, and the next minute will find her, heart in mouth, sitting at your elbow seeking just the slightest hint of attention. These are the characteristics of spayed female cat.

All Burmese remain kitten-playful all of their lives. Most people acquire a Burmese as a kitten, but it really doesn't matter at what age you get one. Burmese adapt themselves to their new environment and people quickly and easily.