The Birman cat, also known as the “Sacred Cat of Burma,” has a rich and mysterious history rooted in ancient legends.
APPEARANCE
Size: Large
Weight: 5+ kg
Coat Length: Long
Coat Colour: Seal Point, Blue Point, Chocolate Point, Lilac Point, Red Point, Cream Point, Caramel Point and Apricot Point
Grooming: Moderate
Eye Colour: Blue
Longevity: 9 – 13 years
Needs: Moderate to High tendency to shed
RECOGNITION: ACF, ANCATS, CCCA
History of the Breed
The construction of the Temple of Lao-Tsun in Asia was dedicated to the worship of the golden goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse, characterized by sapphire blue eyes. Mun-Ha, a temple priest, would kneel before the goddess’s statue, accompanied by the white temple cat named Sinh. Tragically, during one night of worship, raiders infiltrated the temple and killed Mun-Ha. As Mun-Ha lay dying, Sinh placed his feet on him, facing the goddess. Remarkably, Sinh’s body transformed from white to gold, his eyes turned blue like the goddess, and his legs brown, except where they touched his master, remaining white as a symbol of purity. This change extended to all other cats in and around the temple. Sinh remained with Mun-Ha for seven days until he too passed away, carrying Mun-Ha’s soul to paradise. The belief persisted that when a sacred temple cat died, a priest’s soul accompanied the cat’s to paradise.
In 1919, during another temple raid, Auguste Pavie and Major Gordon Russell aided the temple priests. In gratitude, the priests gifted them a breeding pair of Birmans, laying the foundation for the breed in the west. Both men resided in France at the time. Although the Birmans thrived initially, by the end of World War II, only one pair remained. Once again, concerted efforts were needed to ensure the survival of the breed.
In the 1960s, the first Birmans arrived in Britain, and kittens from breeding programs spread globally. In 1966, the Birman gained recognition in Britain, followed by recognition as a breed in the United States in 1967. In Europe, the breed retains its traditional name, the Sacred Cat of Burma.
Appearance
The Birman is a sizable feline with a lengthy body, and males typically surpass females in size. These cats possess a robust build, giving them a somewhat solid appearance in all aspects.
Distinguished by distinctive markings, the Birman resembles a pointed cat with all four feet having white markings (mitted) and captivating deep blue eyes. Despite a triangular head, the broad skull imparts a nearly rounded appearance to the face. Notable features include a Roman nose and medium-sized ears.
The Birman boasts a medium-long, soft, and silky coat that is resistant to matting, making it easy to maintain.
Personality
The Birman breed is known for its reserved nature, often forming strong bonds with a single individual. These felines can exhibit a degree of possessiveness and may manifest signs of jealousy if their caregiver fails to provide sufficient attention. Although Birmans are territorial creatures, it is important to note that their territoriality does not translate into aggression. Instead, they tend to assert their boundaries more subtly, emphasizing their preference for a dedicated and exclusive relationship with their chosen companion.
Living With Birman
Due to their naturally robust build and larger size, Birmans tend to gain excess weight. It is important to incorporate daily exercise into their routine to ensure they maintain optimal physical health.
Moreover, it is essential to engage in regular grooming sessions with your Birman to prevent the occurrence of mats in their delicate fur. Daily grooming not only helps keep their coat pristine but also promotes a strong bond between you and your feline companion. This dedicated care routine contributes significantly to the overall well-being of your Birman, ensuring they remain both physically fit and aesthetically well-groomed.
