Holy Burma
There is no doubt that Birman cats are an incredibly attractive breed, which makes sense considering they are said to have inherited their beauty from the goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse. Continue reading to find out more about the temperament, history, and maintenance requirements for this breed.
History
There are many myths, stories, and traditions about the origin of the Birman cat breed (not to be confused with the Burmese cat), but very little is known about its history. Although there is widespread agreement that the Birman breed most likely originated from Burma (modern-day Myanmar).
According to one of the most popular origin myths for this breed, Birman cats descend from Burmese temple cats. These cats were the devoted pets of priests who followed them around the temple.
Birman Characteristics
Birman cats are characterized by their affectionate, warm, considerate, and curious personalities. These cats are a fantastic choice for families with children or other cats/dogs due to their easygoing and friendly nature. In general, these cats enjoy being around their family and receiving attention.
Who wouldn't want a cat that can perform tricks? They enjoy learning and often respond positively to commands. Playing various puzzles with your cat can help keep their minds active. You might be surprised at how quickly they learn compared to other cat breeds.
Most potential pet owners have questions about the Birman breed before getting a Birman cat. The typical questions include:
What colors do common Birmans come in?
Birmans have a pointed coat, which means their extremities are always darker than their torso, which is usually light in color. Although the coat of this breed is always pointed, they have one special exception, as all their feet are white. In terms of their coat colors, they often come in seal, cream, lilac, blue, chocolate, or red.
What is the lifespan of Birman cats?
A Birman cat can live between 9 and 15 years. However, it's not unheard of for a Birman cat to live over 15 years. Depending on the cat's lifestyle, which includes its nutrition, exercise level, environment, and overall health, it can determine its typical lifespan.
How much does a Birman weigh?
Birmans are classified as medium to large-sized cats. They typically weigh between 3 and 5 kg, but each cat is different, so a Birman cat can weigh above or below the average.
Are Birman cats hypoallergenic?
Birmans are not hypoallergenic, which is unfortunate news for anyone suffering from cat allergies. It is recommended to spend some time with your friend's or family's cat if you are considering getting a cat but are unsure if you are allergic to cats. Symptoms of cat allergies include itchy eyes and sneezing.
Caring for a Birman
Despite the medium to long hair of Birman cats, grooming requirements are relatively low. They are less prone to shedding because their single-layered, silky fur has only one layer instead of two. Typically, caring for a Birman involves simple brushing or combing once or twice a week to keep it healthy and clean. Additionally, grooming can help catch hair that might otherwise end up on your clothing or furniture. Brushing your cat's teeth once a week will help prevent issues like bad breath and periodontal disease. Use a toothbrush designed for cats and toothpaste suitable for cats.
Flea and Worm Care for Birmans
Both flea and worm treatments are essential to ensure your Holy Birman cat stays healthy.
Flea treatments are used to kill or deter fleas from settling on your cat. Various types of flea treatments are available on the market, such as sprays, pipettes, collars, and tablets. Some of these products contain chemicals harmful to fleas, while others are more natural alternatives. It is essential to follow the instructions for the chosen product carefully and ensure your cat is entirely healthy before giving it the treatment. It is also essential to be aware of any side effects and seek help from a vet if your cat shows signs of discomfort or illness after the treatment.
Worm treatments are also a crucial part of ensuring your cat's health. Worms are common in cats and can lead to severe illness if left untreated. There are various types of worm treatments available, such as tablets, paste, and pipettes. These products work by killing worms and worm eggs. It is important to follow the instructions for the chosen product carefully and give your cat worm treatment regularly to keep the worms in check.
Our veterinarian recommends treating your Holy Birman 2-4 times a year, depending on how often the cat gets worms and the environment in which the cat lives. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us here.
