Let's talk Burmillas

The Burmilla is a family cat, at their best when considered a true member of the household. Loyal, devoted, and affectionate, Burmilla cats are known to stay close to their owners, keeping them company and offering dedicated companionship. In return, the breed expects attention and may even demand, quietly but firmly, to be petted. Playful like a kitten well into adulthood, yet gentle, this sweet-natured cat is a great match for children, the elderly, and other animals. It’s easy to fall for the Burmilla’s irresistible personality and insatiable curiosity.

Official name: Burmilla

Other names: Burmilla Shorthair, Burmilla Longhair, Asian

Origins: England

Labrador Retriever adult black and white

Shedding level:		Warm weather?
Energy level (high, low, medium) *:	Medium	Family pet?*
Compatibility with other pets:

* We advise against leaving pets alone for long stretches. Companionship can prevent emotional distress and destructive behaviour. Speak to your veterinarian for recommendations.

Every pet is different, even within a breed; this snapshot of this breed’s specifics should be taken as an indication.

For a happy, healthy and well-behaved pet, we recommend educating and socialising your pet as well as covering their basic welfare, social and behavioural needs.

Pets should never be left unsupervised with a child.

All domestic pets are sociable and prefer company. However, they can be taught to cope with solitude from an early age. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or trainer to help you do this.

22 - 33 cm translations.feature.breeds.height

4 - 6 kg translations.feature.breeds.weight

22 - 33 cm translations.feature.breeds.height

3 - 5 kg translations.feature.breeds.weight

Baby cat:	Birth to 4 months
Growing kitten:	4 to 12 months
Adult:	1 to 7 years
Mature:	7 to 12 years
Senior	From 12 years

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Origins of the breed

For many enthusiasts, the Labrador Retriever remains one of the most popular all-round dogs worldwide. It’s thought that Labrador Retrievers originated from the coast of Newfoundland, Canada, where fishermen used dogs of this appearance to retrieve fish. The breed as we know it today, however, was established by the British in the early 1800’s.

The Labrador Retriever Club was founded in 1916 and the first standard followed soon after, predominantly tailored to working Labrador Retrievers who found early fame, having been originally introduced to the U.K. in the late 1800’s by Col Peter Hawker and the Earl of Malmesbury.

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2 facts about Burmillas

1. Look out for your knick knacks!

Naturally inquisitive and big on exploring, the Burmilla has an adventurous streak. But they also tend to be clumsy. If you are protective of your beloved knick knacks and breakable items, it is wise to keep them stored away in the Burmilla’s presence, just in case of any unintentional paw swiping.

2. Is that makeup?

No, you aren’t imagining it: The dark lines circling the Burmilla’s eyes give the impression that the breed is wearing eyeliner. We assure you, they are not! But the physical characteristic, which also makes an appearance around the nose and mouth to a lesser degree, does create a unique expression. that sets the Burmilla apart from other breeds.

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History of the breed

The Burmilla came about as a result of an unplanned mating between a Chinchilla and a lilac Burmese in 1981 (oops!). According to lore, Baroness Miranda Von Kirchberg presented a male Chinchilla Persian cat to her husband as a pet, naming him Jemari Sanquist. Before the cat could be neutered, he crossed paths with a lilac Burmese female named Bambino Lilac Fabergé who had escaped through a door accidentally left ajar. No, we are not making this up.

The resulting litter produced four female kittens with black-shaded coats and were so appealing that some breeders in the United Kingdom and in Denmark decided to pursue a breeding programme.

The Burmilla breed would be of Burmese type but with the colouring of the Chinchilla. After years of dedication to building out the breed, the shorthair breed was officially recognised by the FIFe (Fédération Internationale Féline) in 1994. By nature of being the newest breed to be recognised by the CFA, the Burmilla remains rare.

Black and white portrait of a Burmilla looking up to the sky

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From head to tail

Physical characteristics of Burmillas

1. Eyes

Large and expressive eyes rimmed with black lines.

2. Coat

Fine, silky coat (shorthair or semi-longhair).

3. Body

Slender legs and a muscular but elegant body.

4. Head

Gently rounded top of the head.

5. Ears

Medium to large ears that tilt slightly forward.

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Things to look out for

From specific breed traits to a general health overview, here are some interesting facts about your Burmilla

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Caring for your Burmilla

Grooming, training and exercise tips

Whether your Burmilla is shorthaired or longhaired, they will be straightforward to groom. It’s important to brush them weekly with a stainless-steel comb to prevent matting, and check their ears and nails regularly. The Burmilla’s activity needs are standard to many playful breeds: Energetic play sessions with plenty of time to sleep. Be sure to keep toys and cat trees accessible for solo play and devote some time to teaching them to engage with interactive puzzle toys: The Burmilla is a fast learner.

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