The European Burmese has a sweet disposition and a natural affection for people, just like his ancestor Siamese. Unsurprisingly, they can be chatty and attention craving. They enjoy the company of other animals but will not compromise on their share of attention.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United Kingdom
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 10-15 years
Color: Brown, chocolate, red, lilac and tortoiseshell combinations
Coat: Short and soft
Average Height: Small to medium
Average Weight: 6-10 pounds
History and Domestication
The European Burmese shares its ancestry with the Siamese and the “Copper Cat” of Burma. It is believed that they were temple cats, kept and bred by priests. The modern Burmese descended from a small, dark-brown coated cat named Wong Mau. This cat belonged to Dr. Thompson who brought her from one of his travels. This cat was then mated with a Siamese to create a new line. In Europe, the breeding was a little different due to the lack of the breeding stock. British Shorthair and redpoint Siamese were used for breeding and due to this many new colors were added to the line. They eventually came to be known as the European Burmese or Foreign Burmese.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The European Burmese is a small to medium-sized cat with a solid and muscular body that exudes elegance. The moderately long body has gently rounded contours. The large and alert eyes are very expressive and range from amber to yellow in color. They curve slightly at the top. The cheekbones are wide and taper towards a short and blunt wedge. The cat is very elegant by no means, fragile.
Care, Grooming and Health
The short coat of a European Burmese doesn’t require much grooming and can be kept in good state with weekly brushing. Bathe only when necessary. Brush their teeth regularly and check eyes and ears for any signs of infection. Keep their litter boxes clean as cats are very particular about bathroom hygiene.
This is a moderately active cat and loves playing with kids and other house pets. This is generally a healthy breed but some of them are prone to gingivitis, lipemia of the aqueous humor, corneal dermoid and orofacial pain syndrome.
Living Conditions
These are indoor-only cats and suited for families with cat-friendly dogs and children. They love retrieving and playing fetch and being highly trainable, can learn new tricks with ease.
Temperament
The personality of the European Burmese is in alignment with the Siamese and the Burmese. They are energetic and friendly like Burmese and charming and determined like the Siamese. They love conversing with you but in a soft and low tone. They are more suited for people who can provide them constant companionship as they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. They are as curious as cats can be and will explore every corner of your house. The females are very regal and ‘queen-like’ and will command attention and charge. Males can be satisfied with being lap cats.
