Burmese
Overview
A warm, sociable and people-loving breed with a glossy coat — playful into adulthood and devoted to family life.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Burmese is devoted lap cat and excellent with children of all ages. They tend to be moderately chatty and needs constant company. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A Burmese is generally high energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment — wand toys, puzzle feeders and tall cat trees help burn off that energy and prevent boredom.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is wash-and-go and shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for; an occasional brush keeps it tidy and cuts down loose hair. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a Burmese should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Very affectionate and friendly — superb family cat that loves company
- +Short satin coat needs little grooming and sheds modestly
Things to consider
- –Hates being left alone and thrives on near-constant interaction
- –Stays playful and demanding of attention well into adulthood
Is a Burmese right for you?
A Burmese tends to be needs constant company and devoted lap cat. That makes them best suited to a home where they won’t be left alone for long stretches — a companion cat or a busier household can help. If you want a cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a Burmese
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are Burmeses good with children?
Excellent with children of all ages. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are Burmeses affectionate?
Devoted lap cat. Burmeses typically love close company and lap time.
Are Burmeses vocal?
Moderately chatty. They are moderately chatty.
How much grooming does a Burmese need?
Wash-and-go; shedding is low. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can Burmeses be left alone?
Needs constant company. They strongly prefer company and can become stressed or lonely if left for long periods — a feline companion or a less empty house suits them better.
Are Burmeses energetic or playful?
High energy. They need plenty of daily play, climbing and enrichment to stay happy.