With a Cheshire cat smile and stunningly good-looks, the Burmilla, a hybrid of the Burmese and Chinchilla Persian cats, is a magical, medium-sized cat with a shimmering silver coat. While not actually magical, this crossbreed exudes an otherworldly and elegant beauty thanks to their large, lined green or gold eyes and tipped fur. Their coats can be short to medium in length, and are usually plush, dense, and luxurious. Females are typically smaller and daintier in size and demeanor, while males tend to be larger and robust, with a stockiness inherited from their Burmese lineage. Burmilla cats can sometimes be referred to as Asian Shaded, referencing their Asian cat breed parentage.
Are Burmilla cats rare?
You’re not likely to encounter a Burmilla cat unless you’re seeking one. This breed was an accidental creation by two cats waiting to breed with other cats, and still remains bred by only a few catteries. As a result, buying a Burmilla cat tends to be an expensive endeavor, costing up to $2,000. Additionally, due to the potential of polycystic kidney disease inherited from the Persian side, it’s critical to choose a respected and vetted breeder. It’s important to consider health over looks with this intelligent and gentle breed, though that shouldn’t be an issue considering they are objectively gorgeous cats.
When considering a Burmilla cat, it’s advisable to prioritize adopting from rescue organizations or shelters to provide a loving home to a cat in need. However, if you decide to purchase a Burmilla kitten, it’s crucial to choose a reputable breeder. Conduct thorough research to ensure that the breeder follows ethical practices and prioritizes the well-being of their cats. Reputable Burmilla cat breeders prioritize the health and temperament of their cats, conduct necessary health screenings, and provide a nurturing environment for the kitties. This active approach ensures that you bring home a healthy and happy kitty while discouraging unethical breeding practices.
Quick Facts
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Size: Medium (7-12 pounds)
- Breed Group: Asian
- Lifespan: 7-12 years
- Coat: Short, dense, and luxurious, with a unique “ticked” pattern where each hair has multiple bands of color. Comes in a variety of shades like silver, chocolate, and golden champagne.
- Temperament: Friendly, playful, affectionate, intelligent, curious, enjoys human interaction and playtime.
- Exercise Needs: Moderate – thrives on daily playtime and mental stimulation.
- Training: Easy to train due to their intelligence and desire to please.
- Grooming: Weekly brushing to prevent matting and maintain their sleek coat.
- Health: Generally healthy, but some potential for genetic health conditions
- It can take up to five generations of breeding before the cats are up to Burmilla standard.
- The eye color of a Burmilla takes up to two years to develop fully.
Burmilla Pictures
