Burmilla Cat Breed History
Origin of the Burmilla Cat
The Origin of the Burmilla Cat is a domesticated cat breed that originated from a natural mutation in a pair of Chinchilla Persian kittens born in 1981 at a breeder’s home in England. The kittens’ fur was characterized by a unique silver-ticked coat pattern, which eventually became known as the “Burmilla” or “Chinchilla Silver Ticked” pattern.
The original Burmilla kittens were named “Pipkin” and “Jabari,” and their parents were a pair of Chinchilla Persians named “Tatiana” and “Sultan.” The breeder, Mrs. Peggy Robertson, was instrumental in developing the breed, working with other breeders to create more Burmillas through selective breeding.
The first registration of Burmillas as a distinct breed by the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) took place in 1984. The breed quickly gained popularity due to its unique and attractive appearance.
The Burmilla is a medium-sized cat with a muscular build and a wedge-shaped head. It has large, wide-set ears and almond-shaped eyes that can be green or copper in color. The coat is one of the breed’s most distinctive features – it is silver-ticked, with a smooth, glossy texture.
The Burmilla comes in two main color patterns: Shaded (also known as “Burmilla”) and Silvershaded (also known as “Silver Ticked”).
Shaded Burmillas have a darker base coat color with silvery ticking over the back, sides, and head. The eyes are copper or golden in color.
Silvershaded Burmillas have a paler base coat color with more pronounced silver ticking over the entire body.
The personality of the Burmilla is known for being affectionate and playful – it enjoys human interaction and can become very attached to its owners. However, they also enjoy their independence and may require some time alone to rest or engage in solo play activities.
In terms of grooming, the Burmilla’s coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. This breed is generally considered low maintenance when it comes to grooming.
The lifespan of a Burmilla cat averages around 12-15 years, although with proper care and attention they can live for up to 18 years or more.
The Burmilla cat breed originated in England in the 1980s through a natural mutation that occurred when an Asian cat, specifically a Chinchilla Shaded Persian, produced offspring with the pointed coat pattern.
The Burmilla cat breed is a result of a natural mutation that occurred in England during the 1980s.
This genetic anomaly arose when an Asian cat, specifically a Chinchilla Shaded Persian, mated with another feline to produce offspring with the pointed coat pattern.
The Burmilla breed is known for its unique appearance, which combines the characteristics of both parents.
The coat of a Burmilla cat is short and fine, with a distinctive mink-colored undercoat and a darker ticked outer coat.
The pointed pattern on the face, ears, legs, and tail gives the Burmilla its distinctive look.
Burmillas are medium-sized cats, with males weighing between 12-16 pounds (5.4-7.3 kg) and females weighing between 10-14 pounds (4.5-6.3 kg).
The breed is known for its intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate nature, making them a popular choice as pets.
Burmillas are generally easy to care for and require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
They are also prone to certain health issues, such as patellar luxation and heart problems, so regular veterinary check-ups are essential.
Key Characteristics:
Certificate: GCCF
Rarity: Common
Weight (Male): 12-16 pounds (5.4-7.3 kg)
Weight (Female): 10-14 pounds (4.5-6.3 kg)
Length: Medium-length coat
Hypoallergenic Status:
The Burmilla breed is considered hypoallergenic, as it has a lower amount of dander than other breeds.
Temperament:
Playfulness: Playful and energetic
Intelligence: Highly intelligent
Affectionateness: Very affectionate
Grooming Needs:
Burmillas require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.
Health Issues:
Patellar luxation
Heart problems
Burmilla Physical Characteristics
Coat Color and Pattern
The Burmilla cat breed is known for its unique coat color and pattern, which makes it one of the most distinctive breeds among domestic cats. The breed originated from a natural mutation that occurred in a group of Bengal cats in England, resulting in a coat with a silvery sheen.
One of the defining characteristics of the Burmilla breed is its coat, which can be either solid or bi-colored, with a variety of colors including blue, chocolate, lilac, and red. However, it’s not just the color that sets this breed apart – their coat also features a unique pattern known as ‘motted’.
The mottled pattern is characterized by irregular patches of darker or lighter fur scattered across the body, creating a beautiful, subtle effect. This pattern can be seen on both the front and back of the Burmilla cat’s legs, chest, belly, face, neck, tail, shoulders, back, sides, and forehead.
The breed comes in three main categories: solid color, bi-color, and pointed. Solid-colored Burmillas have a uniform coat color with no patches or white markings. Bi-colored Burmillas, on the other hand, have two distinct colors, one of which is usually white. Pointed Burmillas have a colored coat with white markings that follow a specific pattern.
The points on the pointed Burmilla breed can be seen in several different locations, including the face mask, ears, legs, chest, and belly. The color and size of these points will vary depending on the individual cat, but they should always be symmetrical and even on both sides of the body.
One thing to keep in mind when it comes to the Burmilla’s coat pattern is that it can be affected by genetics. Some kittens may have a solid color at birth, only to develop mottling or bi-coloration as they mature. This means that even if your kitten appears to have a solid coat at first, they could still end up with the characteristic mottled pattern.
The Burmilla cat breed’s unique appearance is not just about aesthetics – it also serves an important purpose when it comes to identification. With so many breeds available today, distinguishing between them can be difficult. However, thanks to their distinctive coat and pattern, Burmillas are relatively easy to identify as a separate breed.
Overall, the Burmilla cat breed’s coat color and pattern make it one of the most recognizable breeds among domestic cats. Their mottled pattern adds a unique touch to their beautiful silvery coats, setting them apart from other breeds and making them truly special.
The Burmilla has a short, fine coat that comes in two color patterns: brownticked (tortielike) and bicolor.
The Burmilla is a domestic cat breed that has gained popularity over the years due to its unique appearance and charming personality. One of its distinctive features is its short, fine coat that comes in two distinct color patterns: brownticked (tortielike) and bicolor.
The brownticked pattern is similar to the tortoiseshell pattern found in other breeds, but with a darker brown background tone. This creates a beautiful contrast with the lighter brown or orange ticks that are scattered throughout the coat. The result is a stunning visual effect that sets the Burmilla apart from other breeds.
The bicolor pattern, on the other hand, features a predominantly white coat with patches of dark brown or black. This creates a striking and elegant appearance that is sure to turn heads. The contrast between the light and dark colors adds depth and visual interest to the coat, making it even more beautiful than the brownticked version.
The Burmilla’s coat is not only visually appealing but also incredibly soft and fine to the touch. It has a silky texture that makes it a joy to pet and cuddle with. The short length of the coat also means that it requires minimal grooming, making it an ideal choice for busy owners who want a low-maintenance companion.
In addition to its striking appearance, the Burmilla is known for its friendly and outgoing personality. It is highly curious and playful, making it a great breed for families with children or other pets. The Burmilla is also highly intelligent and can be easily trained to behave well in a household setting.
Overall, the Burmilla is a wonderful breed that offers a unique combination of beauty, personality, and intelligence. Its short, fine coat and charming demeanor make it an ideal choice for anyone looking for a loyal and loving companion.
Personality Traits of the Burmilla Cat
Burmilla Temperament
The Burmilla is a rare and exotic breed of domestic cat known for its unique physical appearance and charming personality. Originating from the Middle East, this breed has been developed by crossing the Chinchilla Persian with the Egyptian Mau.
The name “Burmilla” comes from the city of Burma, which was previously known as Rangoon in what is now Myanmar. However, it’s worth noting that the breed has no actual connection to Burma or its culture. Instead, it owes its origins to British cat fanciers who were inspired by the stunning coats and intriguing nature of this unique feline.
One of the most distinctive features of the Burmilla is its coat pattern. This breed comes in a variety of colors including solid black, blue, red, chocolate, lilac, and bi-colors. However, what truly sets it apart are the silvery or golden ticking on its fur, which gives it an unmistakable shine.
The Burmilla’s physical build is sturdy but elegant, with males weighing between 9-12 pounds and females weighing slightly less at around 7-10 pounds. They have a wedge-shaped head, large eyes, and ears that are medium-sized and tufted at the tips.
When it comes to temperament, the Burmilla is renowned for its affectionate and outgoing nature. They’re highly curious creatures who love to explore their surroundings and interact with people. As such, they make excellent companions for families or individuals looking for a low-maintenance yet engaging pet.
Burmillas are generally quiet animals, but they do have a unique vocalization that sounds more like a chirping or chattering noise rather than meowing. This trait has led many owners to compare their cats’ behavior to birds or small animals.
When it comes to grooming, the Burmilla requires regular brushing to prevent matting of its coat. However, they are not particularly demanding when it comes to exercise, as a short walk each day is sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Overall, the Burmilla cat breed offers an exceptional combination of stunning appearance, charming personality, and relatively low-maintenance care. While it’s a rare breed that may be difficult to find or even import, those who have the opportunity to experience its unique charm often become devoted fans and enthusiasts.
Burmillas are known for their outgoing, affectionate, and playful personalities. They enjoy human interaction and can become very attached to their owners.
The Burmilla is a domestic breed of cat that is known for its unique appearance and charming personality. One of the most distinctive features of the Burmilla is its coat, which is a combination of the brown-ticked tabby and tortoiseshell patterns. The result is a beautiful and complex coloration that sets the Burmilla apart from other breeds.
But what really makes the Burmilla special is its personality. This breed is known for being outgoing, affectionate, and playful. They love to interact with their owners and will often seek out human attention throughout the day. In fact, the Burmilla is so attached to its owners that it can become very demanding of attention and affection.
This attachment to their owners can sometimes make the Burmilla a bit mischievous. They have a tendency to get into trouble by knocking over objects or getting into areas they shouldn’t be in. But despite this mischievous streak, the Burmilla is generally a well-behaved cat that gets along well with children and other pets.
The Burmilla is also known for its playful nature. They love to chase toys and play games, and will often engage in energetic play sessions throughout the day. This breed is also highly intelligent and can be trained to do tricks and obey commands.
One of the most charming things about the Burmilla is its vocal nature. They are known for being quite chatty and will often “talk” to their owners in a series of meows and purrs. This vocalization can range from simple requests for food or attention, to complex conversations that involve a range of different sounds.
Overall, the Burmilla is a wonderful breed that makes a great companion for anyone who is looking for a loyal and affectionate pet. With its unique appearance and charming personality, this breed is sure to capture hearts and become a beloved member of any family.
The Burmilla is not a difficult breed to care for, but they do require regular grooming to keep their coat in good condition. They also need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and obesity.
In terms of health, the Burmilla is generally a healthy breed with no major genetic issues. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health problems such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and patellar luxation. Regular veterinary check-ups can help prevent or detect these conditions early on.
When it comes to choosing a Burmilla kitten, there are several things to consider. First, make sure that you are purchasing from a reputable breeder who has a good track record of producing healthy kittens. You should also research the breed thoroughly and understand their needs and requirements before making a decision.
Additionally, consider whether this breed is a good fit for your lifestyle. If you have young children or other pets, the Burmilla may not be the best choice as they can be quite energetic and demanding of attention. However, if you are looking for a loyal companion that will follow you everywhere, then the Burmilla may be perfect for you.
Health Considerations
Polydactyly in Burmillas
Polydactyly is a genetic trait that can be found in the Burmilla cat breed. It is characterized by the presence of extra toes on the front paws or rear paws, with some cats having as many as six digits on each paw instead of the usual five.
The exact cause of polydactyly in Burmillas is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a genetic mutation that affects the development of the cat’s limbs. Some studies suggest that polydactyly may be more common in cats with certain coat patterns or colorations.
Burmillas are known for their striking coat pattern, which features a silvery-gray undercoat and a glossy black overlay. They can also come in other colors and patterns, including brown-ticked, silver, and sepia-toned.
The breed was developed in the 1980s by crossing the Chinchilla Shorthair with the Black Smoke Persian, and it quickly gained popularity for its unique appearance and charming personality.
Burmillas are a relatively rare breed, and as such, they may be more expensive to purchase or acquire than other cat breeds. However, many Burmilla owners find them to be well worth the investment due to their affectionate nature and playful personalities.
Despite being relatively small in size, Burmillas are known for their outgoing and friendly nature. They get along well with people and other pets, making them a great choice for families or households with multiple animals.
The breed’s intelligence and curious nature make it an entertaining companion, always eager to explore its surroundings and investigate new sights and sounds.
Burmillas require regular grooming to prevent matting of their fur and to keep their coat in good condition. They should be brushed at least twice a week, with more frequent brushing recommended during shedding season.
The breed’s overall health is generally good, but as with any purebred cat, it may be prone to certain genetic disorders or conditions. Responsible breeding practices can help minimize the risk of these issues and ensure that Burmillas are healthy and happy companions for years to come.
The Burmilla cat breed is prone to polydactyly (having extra toes), which may require surgical correction.
The Burmilla cat breed, also known as the Chinchilla Persian or simply Burmillas, is a hybrid cat breed that originated from crossing a Chinchilla Persian with a British Shorthair. They are a medium to large-sized cat, typically weighing between 8-12 pounds (3.6-5.4 kg) and measuring 10-15 inches (25-38 cm) in height at the shoulder.
One of the distinctive physical characteristics of Burmillas is their coat pattern, which features a silver or gold undercoat with a dark brown or black overlay giving them a unique “smoke” appearance. They have a broad, wedge-shaped head with a short muzzle and wide-set ears that are slightly tufted with fur.
The Burmilla’s eyes are typically green or copper in color and their medium-length coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. This breed is known for its calm, laid-back temperament, making them an excellent choice for families with children or for people who live in apartments where space is limited.
Burmillas are generally a healthy cat breed but may be prone to certain health issues such as polydactyly (having extra toes). This congenital condition occurs when the cat’s genetic makeup results in the formation of extra digits on their paws. Polydactyly can cause discomfort or difficulty walking for the cat, and in some cases may require surgical correction to prevent complications.
Polydactyly in Burmillas: A Guide
Causes: Polydactyly is caused by a genetic mutation that affects the development of the cat’s paws during fetal development.
Symptoms: Extra digits on one or more paws, discomfort or difficulty walking, and in severe cases, infection or abscesses may develop if left untreated.
Diagnosis: Polydactyly is typically diagnosed through a physical examination of the cat’s paws and a review of their medical history.
Treatment: In some cases, no treatment may be necessary if the extra digits are not causing discomfort or difficulty walking. However, in severe cases, surgical correction may be recommended to prevent complications and improve the cat’s quality of life.
It is essential for Burmilla breeders and owners to be aware of this potential health issue and work closely with a veterinarian to ensure their cats receive the necessary care and attention. With proper management and regular veterinary check-ups, Burmillas can live long, happy, and healthy lives.
Care and Grooming Needs of the Burmilla Cat
Coat Maintenance
The Burmilla is a domestic cat breed that originated in England in the 1980s. It was developed by crossing the Chinchilla Persian with the Abyssinian, and later with other breeds to create a unique coat pattern.
The name “Burmilla” comes from the combination of “Burma,” a reference to the country where the breed’s ancestors were found, and the suffix “-illa,” which is a diminutive form used in cat breeding.
Burmilla cats are known for their striking coat patterns, which feature agouti (mottled) hair with a silvery or golden sheen. The coat can be one of several colors, including brown-ticked, black-ticked, and red-ticked.
The Burmilla has a medium-length coat that requires regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling. This includes daily brushing and occasional bathing to keep the coat clean and healthy.
One of the most distinctive characteristics of the Burmilla is its unique eye color, which can range from gold to copper to green. The eyes are almond-shaped and slanted, giving the cat a piercing and alert appearance.
Burmilla cats are known for their playful, affectionate nature and make excellent family pets. They are generally easy-going and adaptable, but may require patience and consistency when training due to their independent streak.
Adult Burmillas typically weigh between 8-12 pounds (3.5-5.5 kg) and reach a height of around 10-13 inches (25-33 cm) at the shoulder. They are a relatively small breed, but still have a muscular build that gives them a sturdy appearance.
Overall, the Burmilla is a unique and attractive breed with a rich history and distinct characteristics. Its striking coat pattern, playful personality, and affectionate nature make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a new feline friend to their family.
Burmillas have a lowmaintenance coat that requires occasional brushing but no trimming.
The Burmilla is a domesticated cat breed that has gained popularity in recent years due to its unique appearance and low-maintenance nature. One of the key characteristics of this breed is their coat, which requires occasional brushing but no trimming.
The Burmilla’s coat is one of the most distinctive features of the breed, with a beautiful silky texture and a variety of colors to choose from. They come in two main colors: sepia and chocolate, with or without white markings on the paws and face.
The low-maintenance aspect of their coat is one of the reasons why many people are drawn to this breed. Unlike some other cat breeds that require regular grooming sessions, the Burmilla requires only occasional brushing to keep its coat in top condition.
This means that owners can save time and effort on regular grooming, which is a big advantage for those who want to own a low-maintenance pet. The Burmilla’s coat is also relatively easy to clean, with a simple wipe-down or vacuum cleaning session enough to remove dirt and debris.
Another benefit of the Burmilla’s coat is that it requires no trimming. Unlike some other breeds, which require regular trimming sessions to maintain their appearance, the Burmilla’s coat grows naturally and doesn’t need any additional attention from a groomer or breeder.
This makes the Burmilla an ideal choice for busy owners who don’t have time to devote to regular grooming sessions. With their low-maintenance coat, they can enjoy the benefits of owning a beautiful and loving companion without having to worry about extra work or expense.
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