Birman History
Legend has it that the priest of a temple had a treasured white pet cat. One day, the temple was attacked, and the priest was killed while worshipping at the feet of the beautiful, blue eyed Sun Goddess. At the moment of his death, his feline companion jumped on his chest facing the sun goddess. The cat’s eyes turned a brilliant blue, while his coat changed colors and took on a sparkle as if kissed by the sun. His legs turned brown everywhere except where his feet touched the priest, which remained white, a symbol of purity. Hundreds of cats in the temple changed to the same colors. One week later, the priest’s cat died, carrying the priest’s soul to Heaven.
Many years later, two men who had aided the temple during another attack were sent the gift of a male and female cat. The male didn’t survive the trip, but the female was pregnant and continued the legacy. Some outcrossing was originally needed to redevelop the breed that is now known as the Birman, and they were accepted as a registered breed in 1966 and into the CFA registry in 1967.
Characteristics of the Birman
The Birman may appear to be simply another color pointed cat, but they are not meant to resemble the Himalayan or Siamese in any other way. Birmans are a taller, longer cat of medium size. Their size and shape should be well balanced. Their fur is a medium length and silky like an angora rabbit’s, and it is not prone to tangle or matt. They require very little attention, possibly a weekly brushing and baths only when needed. All Birmans should have a golden cast to their coat and blue eyes.
Birman Temperament
What makes the Birman so popular, though it is a somewhat rare breed, is its temperament. Birmans are intelligent, curious, a bit mischievous, very affectionate, playful into their later years, and a wonderful companion cat that always wants to be with you, even when you're asleep. They are loving and as good natured as their sweet expression implies. Birmans are so sociable that they should have a companion if you work long hours. The Birman is a quiet, soft spoke cat, and they are charming and dignified. It is said that they have special intuition that allows them to become perfectly suited to your own personality. Birmans are great with children and will accept other animals.
Birman Health
They are slow to mature, often not reaching full size or coat until 3 years old. Birmans have no breed-specific illness and are generally a healthy, hardy cat. Some may develop Cardiomyopathy, so it is important to get annual vet checkups. They might also have sensitivities to anesthesia. It is okay to free feed a Birman without worrying about weight issues, and they have a life expectancy of about 15 years.
If you have any questions or would like to share stories, information or pictures of your Birman, please join us in the discussion area. If you are thinking of adopting a Birman, please consider the Birman Rescue or check out adoptable Birman cats at Petfinder.com.
If you are researching different breeds of cats, you might also enjoy reading Ragdoll Cats, Abyssinian Cats, Persian Cats, Himalayan Cats, Maine Coon Cats, Exotic Cats, and Siamese Cats.
