the burmese, reviewed

that is my verdict. now see if you can even recognise this breed →

The Burmese is one of the most devoted cats in the world, a compact, muscular, glossy-coated animal that stays kittenish and affectionate for its whole life. Owners describe holding one as lifting a brick wrapped in silk, because it is far heavier than it looks. It scores high on charm and companionship. Here is the honest review.

what is a burmese

The modern Burmese descends from a single brown cat brought from Burma to America in the early twentieth century, and the breed was built up from there. It is closely related to the Siamese in ancestry but quite different in build and manner, rounder, denser, and softer-spoken. Above all it is famous for one thing: an almost overwhelming devotion to its people.

the look

The Burmese is a compact, rounded, deceptively heavy cat, all muscle under a very short, satin-fine coat that lies close and gleams in the light. The traditional colour is a rich sable brown, though several other warm shades exist, and the whole cat has a smooth, polished, sculpted quality. Large, expressive eyes, usually a striking gold, sit in a sweet, open face. It is a handsome cat in an understated way, which is why the fluffiness score is modest while the cuteness runs high.

temperament: the devoted shadow

This is the heart of the breed. The Burmese is one of the most people-loving cats there is, forming intense bonds, following its person everywhere, riding on shoulders, and settling into any available lap. It stays playful and kittenish for life, enjoys games and company, and is talkative in a soft, pleasant voice rather than the piercing Siamese yell. The flip side is important: a Burmese genuinely does not cope well with being left alone for long hours, and it can become lonely and unhappy without company. This is a cat for a home with people in it, or a feline companion to keep it company.

care and health, the honest part

The short, fine coat is wonderfully low-maintenance, needing little more than an occasional wipe or brush to keep its shine. The real commitment is emotional. A Burmese needs interaction, company, and attention, and it does best where it is not left alone all day. On health, some lines can carry certain inherited conditions, including a painful cranial deformity in one bloodline and a sensitivity to some conditions, and responsible breeders screen for these. As always, buy from a reputable, health-testing breeder or adopt and keep up with veterinary care.

is a burmese right for you

If you want a cat that will genuinely be your devoted companion, that stays playful for life and adores being with you, the Burmese is one of the best there is, and it tends to be remarkably long-lived. What it asks in return is your presence. If your home is empty for long stretches every day, this is not a fair choice of cat unless it has company of its own.

the chairman's verdict

Eighty-three. The Burmese is affectionate, charming, long-lived, and heavier than it has any right to be, and it forfeits only the fluff points it was never going to win. A superb companion for the right, present owner. I approve, from my usual dignified distance.

Related reading from my desk: more breeds in the cat breeds guide, the most affectionate cat breeds, and signs your cat loves you.

Scores are the Chairman's opinion, offered in good fun. For real advice on a Burmese's needs, health, or suitability, speak to a reputable breeder, a rescue, or your vet. I am a cat with opinions, not a veterinarian.