Burmese
The Burmese is a breed of domesticated
cats descended from Wong Mau, who was found in Burma in 1930 by
Dr. Joseph G. Thompson. She was brought to San Francisco,
California, where she was bred with Siamese males.
Selective breeding created the Burmese as a distinct breed
which was first recognized in 1936 by the Cat Fanciers'
Association.
American breeders also requested CFA recognition for
lighter colored cats first as a separate breed called Malayan
and then later as a dilute division of Burmese.
The breed was recognised by the UK Governing Council
of the Cat Fancy in 1952.
Characteristics
The Burmese is considered a foreign shorthair. They are
recognized for their large, soulful gold or yellow eyes and
very short, satiny coats that require no grooming beyond hand
stroking. They are stockier and more muscular than the Siamese
they are descended from and longer lived than most pedigreed
cats, often reaching 16 to 18 years of age.
Burmese are vocal like the Siamese but have softer, sweeter
voices. They are people oriented, forming strong bonds with
their owners, gravitating toward all human activity and are
generally far too trusting. It is recommended that owners keep
them as indoor cats. The CFA breed information on the Burmese
implies that all survival instinct of flight or fight seems to
have been bred out of them. The Burmese maintains kitten
interests and energy throughout their adulthood and are very
athletic and playful. In somes instances they even retrieve
items as part of a game. Although all cats are obligate
carnivores, some Burmese will sample fruit and vegetables.
Varieties
CFA Approved Colors:
• Sable
• Champagne
• Blue
• Platinum
Non CFA Approved:
• Cream^
• Red^
• Lilac^
• A number of Tortoise-shell ("tortie") variants.^
^ Recognized in England and throughout Europe in various Cat
Fanciers Organizations. In CFA these colors are classified
under the European Burmese.
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