Appearance
Birmans are beautiful pointed cats with long, silky coats that aren't prone to matting.
While a Birman looks a lot like a Balinese, it has symmetrical white tips on its paws.
(The front paws are called gloves, while the back are called gauntlets.) Birmans are
good-sized cats, huskier than Balinese. They have thick bodies, legs, and heavy paws.
Their heads and shoulders are broad, and their cheeks and ears are round. Birmans have
blue eyes. Birmans are also available in exotic colors like red and tortie, but these
colors are hard to find.
Personality
Birmans are much more easygoing than Balinese. They're not demanding and have soft, quiet
voices. Birmans mix well in multi-animal households, and they get along great with
children. Because Birmans have short legs, they're not climbers.
Word about Birmans' charming personalities is catching on, though, and the breed is
becoming more and more popular. So, if you want to purchase a Birman kitten, don't be
surprised if you have to put your name on a waiting list.
History
Authorities believe the Birman is the original sacred cat of Burma. The breed was found
around ancient Buddhist temples and apparently developed entirely on its own when
free-running longhairs mated with shorthaired Siamese. The breed was recognized in the
United States in 1967.
Health
Birmans are hardy cats with few health problems.
