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Origin: Burma (Myanmar)
Weight
8-12 lbs
Height
9-13 inches
Lifespan
16-18 years
Coat
Short, glossy, satin-like coat in sable, champagne, blue, or platinum
Breeder Cost
$1,200-$2,500
Adoption Cost
$75-$200
The Burmese is one of the most affectionate and people-oriented cat breeds in the world. They are often described as 'dog-like' for their tendency to follow their owners everywhere, play fetch, and greet visitors enthusiastically. They are not suited to being left alone for long periods.
Best For
Families, singles, or apartment dwellers who want a highly social, affectionate cat that behaves like a dog.
Active indoor play. They enjoy interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and fetch.
Minimal grooming required. Weekly brushing and occasional bathing is sufficient.
Coat type: Short, glossy, satin-like coat in sable, champagne, blue, or platinum
Generally healthy and long-lived. HCM, head defect, and diabetes are the main concerns.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Heart muscle disease — echocardiograms recommended.
Burmese Head Defect
A genetic craniofacial abnormality in some lines.
Diabetes
Burmese cats have a higher rate of diabetes than most breeds.
The Burmese cat is believed to descend from a single cat named Wong Mau, a small brown cat brought from Burma to the US by Dr. Joseph Thompson in 1930. Thompson bred Wong Mau with Siamese cats to establish the breed. All Burmese cats in the Western world are descended from Wong Mau. The breed was recognized by the CFA in 1936.
All Burmese cats in the Western world are descended from a single cat named Wong Mau, brought from Burma in 1930.
Burmese cats have one of the longest lifespans of any cat breed — many live to 18-20 years.
They are often called 'dog cats' for their tendency to follow owners, play fetch, and greet visitors.
Burmese cats have a unique satin-like coat that feels different from any other cat breed.
They are one of the most vocal cat breeds — they have a wide range of vocalizations to communicate with their owners.
Owning a Burmese is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.
Annual Cost
$700–$1,400
First Year (incl. setup)
$1,800–$3,200
Active breed; quality food important
Head defect in some lines; diabetes and dental disease possible
Short, glossy coat; minimal grooming needs
Quality litter and enrichment supplies
Social and playful; needs interactive play and companionship
Recommended for dental and metabolic coverage
* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.
Estimated US Population
~300,000 in the US
Adoption Trend
Burmese popularity is stable among cat enthusiasts who want a highly interactive, dog-like companion. Their social nature and minimal grooming needs make them appealing, but their need for constant companionship can be challenging for busy owners.
Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.
The right technology makes cat ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every cat owner.
Automatic Feeder
Scheduled, portion-controlled meals — no more 4 a.m. wake-up calls for breakfast.
GPS Tracker
Know exactly where your cat is — essential for outdoor and indoor-outdoor cats.
Pet Camera
Check in on your cat anytime — two-way audio lets you hear and be heard.
Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Automatic scooping after every use — your cat always has a fresh box.
Robot Vacuum
Designed for pet hair and litter scatter — runs on a schedule so you never notice the mess.
Products marked with SmartPaws Recommended are ones we've independently reviewed and recommend across the site. All Amazon links include our affiliate tag — purchases support SmartPaws at no extra cost to you.
GPS Tracker
Tractive Cat GPS
Peace of mind if your Burmese ever ventures outside.
Pet Camera
Furbo 360° Dog Camera
Burmese are prone to separation anxiety — check in with two-way audio.
SmartPaws RecommendedSelf-Cleaning Litter
Litter-Robot 4 Self-Cleaning Litter Box
Automated litter management for your active Burmese.
SmartPaws RecommendedTemperament
Climate & Physical
Compatibility
Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions
Many Burmeses are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $75-$200 vs. $1,200-$2,500 from a breeder.
Read our Rescue Guide →Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.