Table of Contents
Quick Facts
| Name | Birman |
| Origin | Unknown; believed to be Burma |
| Size | 15 to 18 inches 7 to 14 pounds |
| Lifespan | 12 to 16 years |
| Coat | Colorpoint Medium-long to long, with heavy ruff around the neck |
| Temperament | Gentle, quiet and loving |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Health Issues | Generally Healthy |
| Grooming Needs | Moderate |
| Price | $400 to $2000 |
Introduction: Birman
In the world of cat world only few can stand tall with its charm, the Birman cat is undoubtedly one. This cat breed have very sweet, charming, affectionate and friendly personality. Due to its powerful and attractive traits it has been successful in gaining the attention of many cat enthusiast around the world. They have a light-colored body with darker “points” of color on the face, ears, legs, and tail. Along with its cute white paws and charming blue eyes it has undoubtedly raised the standards of the pet owners. In this article we will learn about its unique world.
History and Origin
As we talk about the history of Birman, their history is quite unknown as their origin is not so sure. It is believed to have been originated in Burma which today is known as Myanmar. They were kept as a sacred cat according to the legend.
The Birman cat were introduced to France and England in the early 1900s and most people suspect to have been originated from these countries. Later, they were introduced in US and in 1967 the Cat Fanciers Association officially recognized this breed.
Physical Appearance
The Birman can be of medium to large in size with a strong and muscular build. They measure up to 15 to 18 inches and weigh 7 to 14 pounds. However they may vary according to their gender. Normally males are quite bigger in size than females. They are born white; the color points on the face, ears, legs, and tail develop later as they mature. Their head is rounded and broad having medium sized nose and charming blue eyes.
They come in various colors like Seal point, blue point, chocolate point, lilac point, seal tabby point, blue tabby point, chocolate tabby point, lilac tabby point, red tabby point, cream tabby point, seal-tortie tabby point, chocolate-tortie tabby point, blue-cream tabby point, lilac-cream tabby point, seal-tortie point, blue-cream point, chocolate-tortie point, lilac-cream point, red point, cream point with pattern colorpoint.
Temperament and Personality
The Birman is a gentle, sweet and adorable pet which gets along with any other friendly pets and children. They are very social breed and seek constant attention from other pets and family members as it doesn’t like to be left alone. They thrive on human and other pets companionship. Anyone with busy schedule must not bring them home as pet or if they want then it is ideal to bring 2 or more kittens as they can play and interact with each other when owners are not home. They like to get involved in family activities and help with work.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Birman cat is a quite a active cat breed so it will want to follow you allover the house where ever you go. They are always ready to play so they need moderate amount of exercise including mental and physical stimulation. Playing with them, walking, running, solving puzzles at least 30 to 60 mins a day can keep them physically and mentally happy and healthy. Providing them with toys or other friendly pets to play with is one of the ideal options.
Grooming and Care
Talking about grooming the Birman they might seem too difficult to groom but its quite easy to groom them due to their single coat with no any under coat. Weekly or timely brushing their hair must do the work to avoid any tangling of their hair. Trimming their nails, Brushing their teeth, Cleaning their ears and Monthly bathing are some major grooming activities to maintain personal hygiene of the cat.
Some helpful tips:
- In order to ensure its silky and shiny coat it is recommended to use slicker brush.
- One must know that they should not over wash their cat’s coat as it can damage and degrade its coat quality.
- Bathing once a few months with high quality shampoo is much better for their coat’s and overall health.
- Clean their ears, trimming nails, brushing their teeth with high quality toothpaste are some major cleaning activities.
Health and Common Concerns
The Birman breed is a very healthy breed with no any genetical diseases. With that being said, its health should not be neglected as it can develop some health problems along with its age if not taken care of its hygiene and health. They can be prone to some digestive issues, urinary problems, hyperthyroidism, eye problems and diabetes if not maintained proper balanced diet and personal hygiene.
Some helpful tips:
- Taking your cat to the veterinarian for regular checkups at least once every 14 weeks is recommended.
- Feed them nutritious and protein condense foods like fish, milk, authentic cat foods etc.
- Never neglect the hydration of your cat.
- Giving them necessary vaccines to fight various bacteria and allergies is necessary.
- Socializing and interacting with them by playing is an important activity for their mental health as well as physical health.
- Proper sanitation and clean environment is a must for minimal risk of bacterial diseases.
- If any sudden sickness you should immediately seek help from respective professionals.
Conclusion
In conclusion the Birman cat is a charming, adorable, friendly and gentle who is always ready to play and become great companion with other pets and family members. They can be great lap cuddlers and would love to form a strong bond with family members. Being in compact size they can be great for individuals living in small apartments. Due to their charming and gentle personality they can be fit to any family of any size. Bringing one home definitely ensures you a lot of happiness and joy to you and your family.
Image Source: Getty Images
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