Post Date July, 22 2024
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to keep a panther at home? I guess that wouldn’t be the smartest idea, despite the majestic and elegant looks of this creature. What about a domesticated, mini-version of a panther that shows actual affection? Then you’ve come to the right place – the black Burmese fits the description perfectly. This rare breed is admired worldwide and makes for an excellent pet.
The Burmese possesses a unique blend of exotic looks and keen intelligence. Playful and amiable by nature, it mashes well with pets and humans alike. If you are worried that it will lose its playfulness once it grows up, stop now: these furballs always know how to have fun. With the right amount of attention and care, you can create an owner-pet relationship that others can only envy.
While this breed was being bred and domesticated in the US and Britain, something interesting happened. Namely, the Burmese descends from Wong Mau, a shorthaired brown female brought to America in 1930 by Dr. Joseph Thompson. On arrival, it was crossed with an American Siamese, giving birth to the modern Burmese as we know it. But at the same time, the Brits were developing a different breeding routine across the pond. As a result, their variant is sometimes dubbed the European Burmese, even though they aren’t registered as two distinct breeds by cat registries.
It took a while, but the Burmese was officially recognized as a separate breed in 1979 by the International Cat Association. Since then, it’s been only gaining in popularity among feline aficionados.
The coat is where the Burmese really shines, pun intended. Going back to the panther comparison: with its short, glossy, black hair, it looks like it hopped straight out of the jungle. Only you don’t have to run for your life. When you see it stretched out outside, basking in the sun, its poise and elegance are hard to match.
In the beginning, all Burmese cats were genetically black, or dark brown. Later on, after breeders got to work, they started appearing in more colors. There used to be only four accepted colors: sable (dark brown or black), blue, champagne, and platinum. Lately, though, associations have expanded the palette, so now you can also find cream, red, chocolate, or lilac Burmese.
In contrast with the black coat, the rounded, golden eyes are bound to leave a lasting impression. Their shape is quite distinct: the bottom line is rounded, and the upper one slants towards the eye. This gives them a rather sweet, gentle expression, in line with their friendly demeanor.
The love and affection you get from a Burmese is something you expect from a dog. Once it’s created, the bond between this feline and its owner is really hard to break. In fact, you can safely apply the motto “The more, the merrier” to this feline. Rather than minding their own business, as cats do, they enjoy mingling with everyone to see if they can steal a cuddle or two. If you own a dog, but you’re afraid it won’t be compatible with a Burmese, it should be the least of your concerns.
In addition, these are highly intelligent cats. If you observe them during playtime, you’ll notice how fast they react and learn, especially at the kitten stage. Being real attention seekers, some even check if their owner is following their moves. It’s a good idea to install a cat house if you can: the Burmese is highly energetic and loves performing, jumping, or climbing.
Another common trait of this breed is vocalization. It can even seem the Burmese are talking to you, communicating their needs for food, discomfort, or simply attention. Some even start howling if you ignore them for too long!
The Burmese possesses a unique blend of exotic looks and keen intelligence. Playful and amiable by nature, it mashes well with pets and humans alike. If you are worried that it will lose its playfulness once it grows up, stop now: these furballs always know how to have fun. With the right amount of attention and care, you can create an owner-pet relationship that others can only envy.
A Bit of History
This breed originates from faraway Myanmar (formerly Burma), Southeast Asia. There are other well-known exotic breeds from this part of the world, like the Siamese, Tonkinese, Korat, and others. After being introduced in the Western world, they were highly admired and sought after as pets, especially our black Burmese.While this breed was being bred and domesticated in the US and Britain, something interesting happened. Namely, the Burmese descends from Wong Mau, a shorthaired brown female brought to America in 1930 by Dr. Joseph Thompson. On arrival, it was crossed with an American Siamese, giving birth to the modern Burmese as we know it. But at the same time, the Brits were developing a different breeding routine across the pond. As a result, their variant is sometimes dubbed the European Burmese, even though they aren’t registered as two distinct breeds by cat registries.
It took a while, but the Burmese was officially recognized as a separate breed in 1979 by the International Cat Association. Since then, it’s been only gaining in popularity among feline aficionados.
Distinct Looks
The Burmese is a medium-sized cat, but don’t let that fool you. It’s no surprise that some call them heavyweight champions of the cat world. Even though it’s not large like a Maine Coon, for instance, you’ll be surprised by how heavy and sturdy it is, especially for its size. It has a muscular and compact body, with a slightly rounded head, ears, and feet. The average lifespan of a Burmese is 9-13 years, and owing to its natural strength and health, it can go even longer.The coat is where the Burmese really shines, pun intended. Going back to the panther comparison: with its short, glossy, black hair, it looks like it hopped straight out of the jungle. Only you don’t have to run for your life. When you see it stretched out outside, basking in the sun, its poise and elegance are hard to match.
In the beginning, all Burmese cats were genetically black, or dark brown. Later on, after breeders got to work, they started appearing in more colors. There used to be only four accepted colors: sable (dark brown or black), blue, champagne, and platinum. Lately, though, associations have expanded the palette, so now you can also find cream, red, chocolate, or lilac Burmese.
In contrast with the black coat, the rounded, golden eyes are bound to leave a lasting impression. Their shape is quite distinct: the bottom line is rounded, and the upper one slants towards the eye. This gives them a rather sweet, gentle expression, in line with their friendly demeanor.
Charming Personality
An affable and loyal pet, the Burmese brings joy to every home. It’s interesting to watch them grow and change their habits slightly. For example, kittens are very curious and agile, never staying in one spot for too long. As they get older, they start getting more passive and content, and you can often spot them enjoying the sunlight on a window sill. Nonetheless, they retain their playfulness and sense of fun longer after kittenhood.The love and affection you get from a Burmese is something you expect from a dog. Once it’s created, the bond between this feline and its owner is really hard to break. In fact, you can safely apply the motto “The more, the merrier” to this feline. Rather than minding their own business, as cats do, they enjoy mingling with everyone to see if they can steal a cuddle or two. If you own a dog, but you’re afraid it won’t be compatible with a Burmese, it should be the least of your concerns.
In addition, these are highly intelligent cats. If you observe them during playtime, you’ll notice how fast they react and learn, especially at the kitten stage. Being real attention seekers, some even check if their owner is following their moves. It’s a good idea to install a cat house if you can: the Burmese is highly energetic and loves performing, jumping, or climbing.
Another common trait of this breed is vocalization. It can even seem the Burmese are talking to you, communicating their needs for food, discomfort, or simply attention. Some even start howling if you ignore them for too long!
Better Safe Than Sorry
Lastly, we need to address some potential health concerns with the Burmese. With enough care and quality nutrition, these furballs generally have excellent health. However, some of the following problems might arise.
According to research, they are a little more prone to diabetes than other breeds.
Risk factors are physical inactivity, age, and obesity, so it’s important to keep fatty food to a minimum, keep the protein high, and engage your pet in play as often as possible. Should you notice any symptoms, like diarrhea, weakness, or vomiting, visit the vet for an expert opinion.
Also, some kittens may grow a second set of teeth. This is called acute teething disorder, and it can be very painful and frustrating for your kitty. If it gets unbearable, antibiotics will do the job until the teeth have grown in. Even without any disorder, regular dental, facial, and paw care goes without question. A healthy furball is a happy furball, and the lovely Burmese deserves the best care you can manage.
