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Burmese

Burmese

Origin: Burma (Myanmar)

AffectionatePlayfulSocialVocalDog-like

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

Personality & Temperament

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.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Active indoor play. They enjoy interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and fetch.

Grooming & Coat Care

Minimal grooming required. Weekly brushing and occasional bathing is sufficient.

Coat type: Short, glossy, satin-like coat in sable, champagne, blue, or platinum

Common Health Conditions

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.

History & Origin

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.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    All Burmese cats in the Western world are descended from a single cat named Wong Mau, brought from Burma in 1930.

  • 2

    Burmese cats have one of the longest lifespans of any cat breed — many live to 18-20 years.

  • 3

    They are often called 'dog cats' for their tendency to follow owners, play fetch, and greet visitors.

  • 4

    Burmese cats have a unique satin-like coat that feels different from any other cat breed.

  • 5

    They are one of the most vocal cat breeds — they have a wide range of vocalizations to communicate with their owners.

Cost of Ownership

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

Food$200–$400/yr

Active breed; quality food important

Vet Care$250–$500/yr

Head defect in some lines; diabetes and dental disease possible

Grooming$50–$100/yr

Short, glossy coat; minimal grooming needs

Litter & Supplies$150–$300/yr

Quality litter and enrichment supplies

Toys & Enrichment$150–$300/yr

Social and playful; needs interactive play and companionship

Pet Insurance$200–$400/yr

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.

Popularity & Adoption Trends

Estimated US Population

~300,000 in the US

Adoption Trend

stable

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.

Plan daily life with your Burmese

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

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.

Breed Traits

Best forfamilies with kids · apartment living · first-time owners
Not idealnoise-sensitive neighbors · owners away long hours
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
High
Trainability
High
Apartment OK
Very High
Kid-Friendly
Very High
Pet-Friendly
Very High
Affection Level
Very High
Grooming
Very Low
Shedding
Low

Temperament

Barking
Very High
Protective
Low
Sep. Anxiety
Very High
Stubbornness
Low
Noise Sensitive
Moderate

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Moderate
Cold Tolerance
Moderate
Water Affinity
Low

Compatibility

Dog Friendly
High
Cat Friendly
High
Hunting Instinct
High
✓
Good for first-time owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
16-18 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

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 →
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Download the Burmese Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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