Everyone recognizes the Burmese cat breed at once. Silky fur the color of cream, paws in white “socks” and a look in which the very sky is blue. The Burmese cat is a breed that does not strive to be the first. She is already the exception. Her presence is one of respect, but without arrogance.
In legends, the Burmese is referred to as the “sacred cat of Burma.” Allegedly, an old priest and his white cat once lived in a temple where the golden-eyed goddess was worshipped. When the temple was captured by enemies and the priest was killed, the cat stepped on it with its paws and looked at the statue of the goddess – its fur became golden, eyes – sky-blue, but its paws remained white – as a symbol of purity. Since then, every Burmese carries a piece of this myth: something untouched, but extremely tender.
What distinguishes the Burmese from other “beauties”? It doesn’t have the glamorous sheen of a Persian. Nor is she as Nordic as a Siamese. She is like the first milk: warm, gentle, without a shadow of aggression. Her coat – medium length, without undercoat, soft as cashmere, and does not get tangled. But the muzzle and ears are of a contrasting color: chocolate, cream, blue – depending on the shade. It all looks like the work of an artist who decided to create a “cuddle cat”.
And the character? Burma is a diplomat. She’s not imposing, but she always knows where you are. She likes to be around you, especially when you’re not in the mood. She is a cat that doesn’t run away from children, but she doesn’t tolerate rudeness either. She knows how to share space – not dissolving into you, but not keeping to herself either. Her voice is quiet, almost a whisper – when Burma says something, it’s always important. And the best part – it’s always like she’s smiling.
As for varieties – there are some, but not many. The main colors are sil-point (chocolate), blue-point (blue), lilac-point, red-point. All have a contrasting muzzle, toe paws and those heavenly eyes. European lines of Burma are characterized by a softer body shape, American – more expressive features. But the essence – does not change.
Grooming a Burmese cat does not require much effort, although it looks as if it has just come from a photo studio. Regular combing and the coat shines like satin. She can be washed safely, she is not afraid of water – although, like a real lady, she appreciates delicacy. At the grooming salon, the Burma reveals itself in a special way: wash, dry, polish and it looks as if it has just come from the temple.
