Burmese
Myanmar (developed in the United States)
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–6 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–17 yrs
- sociable
- affectionate
- playful
- confident
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Burmese
The modern Burmese traces back to a brown female cat brought from Burma to the United States in the 1930s and bred with Siamese cats. Separate American and European types later developed, with the American type rounder in the head and the European type slightly more angular. Both are compact, surprisingly heavy cats with a short, satin-like coat in rich solid colours.
Temperament
Highly sociable, affectionate and confident. Burmese love company, often greet strangers, and can be persistent about attention. They do not usually enjoy long periods alone.
Play & activity
Playful well into adulthood. Enjoys fetch, chase games and climbing. Daily play and company are more important than space.
Grooming
The fine, close coat needs little more than a weekly rub with a soft cloth or mitt.
Care & wellbeing
Some lines are prone to diabetes and to a craniofacial defect in the American type, and a condition causing low potassium has been described. Keeping them at a healthy weight is helpful.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 4.5 kg adult- Water
- 180 ml–270 ml
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 260 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Active play
- 30–45 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Burmese
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The modern Burmese traces back to a brown cat brought from Burma to North America and bred with Siamese types. Breeding then produced a compact, muscular cat with a silky coat and rounded features. Burmese are famously social and often seek close contact with their people.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Diabetes mellitus
- Craniofacial defects
- Hypokalaemia (low blood potassium)
- Feline orofacial pain syndrome
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Genetic screening for head defects
- Breeder health records
Not every Burmese is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–17 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Burmese right for you?
Could suit
- Homes with time for lots of interactive play
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Think twice if
- The cat will be alone and unoccupied for long stretches
Common questions
How big does a Burmese get?
Adult Burmeses typically weigh around 3–6 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Burmeses live?
Typically 12–17 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How active is a Burmese?
Expect to spend around 30–45 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Burmese need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Burmeses affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Burmeses shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Burmeses good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any cat, and teach them to give the cat space.
Can a Burmese live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Burmeses have?
The breed can be prone to diabetes mellitus, craniofacial defects, hypokalaemia (low blood potassium). Not every Burmese is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice.