Burmilla
Great Britain
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–6 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–16 yrs
- gentle
- sociable
- playful
- affectionate
Weights are typical adult ranges; individual cats vary.
About the Burmilla
The Burmilla began in Britain in the early 1980s after an unplanned mating between a Chinchilla Persian and a lilac Burmese. The resulting kittens were so appealing that breeders developed the line deliberately. It is a medium-sized, rounded cat with a short, soft coat that is silver or golden with shaded or tipped colour, and dark outlining around the eyes, nose and lips.
Temperament
Gentle, sociable and playful without being overwhelming. Burmillas usually enjoy family life, bond closely with their people and tend to be sensible with children.
Play & activity
Moderately active. Daily interactive play and a climbing post keep it content, and many enjoy games well into adulthood.
Grooming
The short, dense coat is easy to manage with a weekly brush. A semi-longhaired variety exists and needs slightly more attention.
Care & wellbeing
Polycystic kidney disease, inherited from Persian ancestry, has been reported in some lines. Otherwise the breed is generally regarded as robust.
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
- 20–30 min
- a day
- Grooming
- A brush once a week
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 Burmilla
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
The Burmilla began as an accidental mating between a Burmese and a Chinchilla Persian in Britain. The kittens had striking shaded or tipped coats with dark outlined eyes, and breeders went on to develop them deliberately. They are playful, affectionate and moderately active cats.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- PKD DNA test
- Kidney ultrasound
Not every Burmilla 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 12–16 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 Burmilla right for you?
Could suit
- Homes that can offer daily play sessions
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- People who want an affectionate, people-focused cat
Common questions
How big does a Burmilla get?
Adult Burmillas typically weigh around 3–6 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Burmillas live?
Typically 12–16 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 Burmilla?
Expect to spend around 20–30 minutes a day on play, ideally in short sessions with toys they can chase and pounce on.
How much grooming does a Burmilla need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Burmillas affectionate?
Typically very people-focused and affectionate. Every cat is an individual, and early handling shapes how sociable they become.
Do Burmillas shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Burmillas 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 Burmilla live in a flat?
Usually, yes — with plenty of play, climbing space and enrichment.
What health problems do Burmillas have?
The breed can be prone to polycystic kidney disease (pkd), skin and urinary problems. Not every Burmilla 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.