Description: Birman
The Birman, also known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, is a distinguished and ancient breed known for its striking appearance and affectionate personality. These cats are characterized by their deep blue eyes, silky coat, and unique color-point pattern, similar to that of the Siamese. Each paw has pure white 'gloves' that add to their mystical appeal. Birmans are medium to large cats, with strong, muscular bodies and a gentle demeanor. They are particularly known for their friendly and calm nature, making them excellent companions. This breed enjoys human company and fits well into homes with families or other pets. Birmans are also relatively easy to care for, requiring only moderate grooming due to their non-matting fur.
Properties
The Birman cat, also known as the "Sacred Cat of Burma," is a breed known for its striking appearance and gentle temperament. Originally said to have been the companions of temple priests in Burma, Birmans have a mystical lore surrounding their origin. They were later developed in France and have become popular worldwide.
Birmans have a medium to large build, strong and elongated bodies, and notably beautiful blue eyes. Their fur is one of their most distinguished features: a silky, medium-length coat that does not mat easily. The color of their coat is typically a light cream, with darker points on the ears, face, paws, and tail, which are characteristic of the breed. The precise, even markings and the symmetrical appearance of the face are particularly prized in show-quality Birmans.
One of the unique features of Birmans is their white 'gloves' on each paw, which should be even in length and perfectly matched. Breed standards call for pure white gloves ending in an even line across the paw. The contrast between the gloves and the darker points is one of the breed's most adorable features. Besides aesthetics, Birmans are known for their wonderful temperament. They are affectionate, gentle, and very personable, making them excellent companions and family pets. They tend to form strong bonds with their owners and are known to be particularly good with children and other pets.
Birmans are intelligent and curious cats, often interested in their surroundings and in staying close to their humans. They are sometimes described as 'dog-like' because of their loyalty and the fact that they will often greet their owners at the door. Despite their playful side, they are generally calm and prefer cozying up next to their family members over more strenuous activity.
The care of a Birman cat involves regular grooming, despite their relatively tangle-free coat. Brushing them several times a week is recommended to keep their fur in good condition and to reduce shedding. Health-wise, Birmans are generally healthy, but they can be prone to some genetic conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Regular veterinary checks are recommended to monitor their health.
In summary, the Birman is not just a beautiful and elegant cat but also one with a deep-seated history and a personality that makes it an ideal companion. Their gentle, loving nature combined with their striking looks makes them a favorite among cat lovers and pet owners around the world.
Appearance
The Birman, also known as the 'Sacred Cat of Burma', is a breed of domestic cat that stands out due to its striking appearance and gentle temperament. Known for their serene and affectionate nature, Birmans are characterized by a medium to large size build, sturdy bone structure, and a robust physique which attributes to their originally sacred status in temples.
The most distinguishing features of a Birman are its deep blue almond-shaped eyes, which exude a calm and mystical gaze, and their beautiful color-pointed coat, similar to that of a Siamese. The points – including the ears, face, legs, and tail – display darker colors which contrast dramatically with the lighter color of their body. Common colors for the points include seal, blue, chocolate, and lilac, but they can also appear in more exotic shades like red, cream, and various tabby or tortie patterns.
Another unique attribute of the Birman is their pure white gloves on each paw, which should be symmetrical and extend up to the ankles at the back, known as 'laces'. The presence and symmetry of these gloves and laces are essential in show-quality Birmans and are one of the breed's most enchanting features. The coat itself is of medium length, silky to the touch, and does not mat easily. This makes grooming Birmans relatively easy compared to other long-haired breeds. Birmans have a Roman nose and a strong chin which gives them a distinctive profile.
Their body is long and muscular, allowing for graceful and fluid movements that match their regal and noble demeanor. Their tails are fluffy and proportionate to the body, often carried with a plume-like flourish that completes their elegant appearance. The overall appearance of a Birman is one of balanced elegance, with physical features that resonate with mystical beauty and an allure that is both intriguing and soothing.
Overall, Birmans are not only stunning in looks but are also known for their friendly and congenial nature, making them excellent companions and a popular choice for families and singles alike. Their striking looks and endearing personalities continue to captivate the hearts of many across the world.
History
The Birman cat, also known as the 'Sacred Cat of Burma', is a breed shrouded in beautiful legend and mystery. According to one popular myth, these cats were the companions of temple priests in ancient Burma. It's said that the goddess Tsun-Kyan-Kse, the protectress of the transmuted souls, had her temple guarded by one hundred white cats. When the temple was attacked and a priest was killed, a white cat named Sinh placed his feet on his master and faced the goddess, whose blue eyes transferred to Sinh, while his white fur took on a golden hue, except for his paws, which remained white as a symbol of purity.
The true origins of the Birman cat are likely less mystical but no less interesting. The breed first emerged in France in the early 20th century. The most documented lineage begins with a pair of cats imported to France from Burma in 1919. These cats, a male named Madalpour and a female named Sita, were said to have been a gift from the Kittah temple priests to a Frenchman named Auguste Pavie as thanks for his aid during conflicts in the region. Sadly, the male did not survive the journey to France, but Sita, who was pregnant, did, and her offspring served as the foundation for the breed in Europe.
The Birman breed faced numerous challenges during its early development, particularly after World War II when the breeding stock was nearly decimated. By the end of the war, only two Birmans were documented to have survived in Europe, and breeders had to painstakingly rebuild the population, often outcrossing with long-haired breeds such as the Persian and then backcrossing to maintain the desired characteristics of the Birman. It was not until the 1950s and 1960s that the breed regained a foothold in Europe, thanks particularly to dedicated breeders in France and the United Kingdom.
The Birman was first brought to the United States in 1959, where it slowly gained popularity. It was recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1967 and by the International Cat Association (TICA) in the late 1970s. The breed is now cherished worldwide for its striking appearance and gentle temperament. Its color-point coat, deep blue almond-shaped eyes, and distinctive white 'gloves' on each paw continue to enchant cat lovers, while its affectionate and serene nature makes it a favored companion. The rich history, along with the loving and mysterious aura surrounding the Birman cat, makes it a unique and revered member of the feline world.