Burmese Cats: The Dog-Like Companions

Burmese cats are compact, muscular, surprisingly heavy cats who act more like dogs than cats. They follow you everywhere, seek constant attention, and bond deeply with their families.

They are nicknamed “velcro cats” because they stick to you like glue. If you want a cat who is always by your side, Burmese deliver.

But be warned: Burmese cats do not tolerate being ignored or left alone. They need constant companionship and interaction.

Quick Facts

  • Weight: 8-12 pounds (heavier than they look due to muscle)
  • Lifespan: 16-18 years (long-lived breed)
  • Temperament: Affectionate, playful, social, demanding, people-oriented
  • Grooming needs: Low
  • Energy level: Moderate to high
  • Intelligence: High
  • Vocal level: Moderate (soft, sweet voice)
  • Good with kids: Excellent
  • Good with other pets: Excellent
  • Nickname: “Velcro cat” or “dog cat”

What Makes Burmese Special

Ancient Southeast Asian Origins

Burmese cats originated in Southeast Asia (Burma, now Myanmar) where they were considered sacred temple cats.

The modern Burmese breed was established in the 1930s when a brown female cat named Wong Mau was brought from Burma to the United States and bred with Siamese cats.

All Burmese cats today trace their lineage back to Wong Mau.

Compact, Muscular, Surprisingly Heavy

Burmese cats are described as “bricks wrapped in silk.” They:

  • Look small and compact
  • Feel surprisingly heavy when picked up
  • Have dense muscle tone
  • Have rounded bodies
  • Have substantial bone structure

A 10-pound Burmese feels heavier than a 10-pound cat of another breed.

Silky, Short Coats

Burmese coats are:

  • Short and sleek
  • Satin-like texture
  • Lie close to the body
  • Glossy and shiny
  • Minimal shedding

Their coats feel like silk.

Four Main Colors

Original Burmese (American standard) come in four colors:

  • Sable: Rich, dark brown (the original and most popular color)
  • Champagne: Warm beige with honey tones
  • Blue: Soft gray with warm undertones
  • Platinum: Pale silver-gray

European Burmese include additional colors like red, cream, and tortoiseshell.

All Burmese have gold or yellow-green eyes.

Round, Sweet Faces

Burmese have:

  • Round heads
  • Large, expressive eyes
  • Short muzzles (not flat like Persians)
  • Sweet, gentle expressions

Their faces radiate warmth and friendliness.

Playful Throughout Life

Unlike many breeds that calm down with age, Burmese remain kitten-like well into their senior years. They:

  • Play daily well into their teens
  • Maintain curiosity and energy
  • Stay interactive and social

Fifteen-year-old Burmese cats still play like kittens.

Temperament

Burmese cats are:

  • Affectionate - They crave physical contact constantly. They sit on laps, sleep on your pillow, and follow you everywhere.
  • Playful - They love interactive toys and maintain kitten energy throughout life.
  • Social - They get along with kids, other cats, dogs, and strangers.
  • Vocal - They communicate with soft, sweet meows and chirps. They are less loud than Siamese but still talkative.
  • Intelligent - They learn tricks, solve puzzles, and figure out how to open doors.
  • People-oriented - They bond with all family members, not just one person.
  • Demanding - They demand attention and will not let you ignore them.
  • Dog-like - Many play fetch, come when called, and greet you at the door.

Burmese are extroverts who need constant engagement.

Living with a Burmese

They Are Velcro Cats

Burmese follow you everywhere. They:

  • Sit on your lap while you work
  • Follow you to the bathroom
  • Sleep on your pillow
  • Help with chores
  • Supervise everything you do

If you want personal space, Burmese are not for you.

They Cannot Be Alone

Burmese become anxious and depressed when left alone for long periods. They:

  • Vocalize excessively
  • Stop eating
  • Become destructive
  • Develop behavioral issues

If you work full-time, get a companion cat or dog. Burmese need constant companionship.

They Play Fetch

Many Burmese love playing fetch like dogs. They:

  • Retrieve toys
  • Bring toys back to you
  • Play fetch for extended periods

Teach them young for best results.

They Are Lap Cats

Burmese love physical contact. They:

  • Sit on laps for hours
  • Drape over shoulders
  • Sleep in bed with you
  • Purr loudly when held

If you want a cuddly cat, Burmese are perfect.

They Get Along with Everyone

Burmese are friendly and social. They:

  • Greet strangers
  • Bond with all family members
  • Play with kids
  • Cuddle with dogs
  • Adapt to other cats

They are not shy or aloof.

Care Requirements

Grooming

Burmese have short, silky coats that need minimal grooming.

Grooming routine:

  • Brush weekly with a soft brush or grooming mitt
  • Trim nails every 2-3 weeks
  • Check ears weekly for wax buildup
  • Brush teeth regularly

They shed minimally.

Bathing

Burmese rarely need baths. If you do bathe them:

  • Use a gentle cat shampoo
  • Rinse thoroughly
  • Towel dry

Exercise and Play

Burmese need at least 20-30 minutes of interactive play daily.

Best activities:

  • Feather wand hunting
  • Fetch (their favorite)
  • Laser pointer chase (end with a catchable toy)
  • Puzzle feeders
  • Interactive toys
  • Clicker training

Without exercise, Burmese become destructive.

Diet

Burmese are muscular and active. Feed high-quality, protein-rich food.

  • Choose meat-based wet or dry food
  • Measure portions to prevent obesity (they can gain weight as they age)
  • Provide fresh water at all times

Monitor weight as older Burmese are prone to diabetes.

Companionship

Burmese are social and need constant interaction. They cannot be left alone for long periods.

If you work full-time:

  • Get a second Burmese or another social breed
  • Consider a dog (Burmese love dogs)
  • Hire a pet sitter for midday visits

Burmese are happiest in pairs or with other pets.

Health Considerations

Burmese are generally healthy but watch for these conditions:

Hypokalemia (Hypokalemic Polymyopathy)

Hypokalemia is a genetic condition where potassium levels drop, causing muscle weakness.

Signs:

  • Muscle weakness (especially in neck and legs)
  • Head drooping
  • Difficulty walking
  • Lethargy

Prevention: Ask breeders for hypokalemia genetic testing results. Treatment involves potassium supplements.

Craniofacial Defect

A rare genetic defect where kittens are born with severe facial deformities. Affected kittens are usually euthanized at birth.

Prevention: Responsible breeders avoid breeding affected lines. Ask breeders about craniofacial defect screening.

Diabetes

Burmese are prone to diabetes, especially as they age.

Signs:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Weight loss despite eating
  • Lethargy

Prevention:

  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Measure food portions
  • Limit treats
  • Monitor for symptoms

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

Some Burmese develop HCM, a heart condition.

Signs:

  • Rapid breathing
  • Lethargy
  • Loss of appetite

Prevention: Ask breeders for HCM screening results. Annual vet checkups help catch it early.

Gingivitis and Dental Disease

Burmese are prone to dental issues.

Prevention:

  • Brush teeth 2-3 times per week
  • Provide dental treats
  • Schedule annual dental cleanings

Obesity

Older Burmese can gain weight easily, especially if they become less active.

Prevention:

  • Measure food portions
  • Maintain daily play sessions
  • Limit treats

Are Burmese Good with Kids?

Yes. Burmese are excellent family cats. They:

  • Tolerate handling well
  • Play gently with children
  • Seek out kid energy
  • Are patient and tolerant

Teach kids to:

  • Play gently
  • Respect the cat’s space
  • Use toys, not hands, for play

Burmese and kids are a great match.

Are Burmese Good with Other Pets?

Yes. Burmese are social and need companionship.

With other cats:

  • Get along well with most personalities
  • Provide separate resources (food, litter, beds)
  • Supervise introductions

With dogs:

  • Bond closely with dogs
  • Often cuddle with dogs
  • Supervise introductions

With small pets:

  • Moderate prey drive
  • Supervise interactions with birds, hamsters, or fish

Burmese prefer companionship over being solo cats.

Common Mistakes

Leaving Them Alone Too Long

Burmese become anxious and depressed when left alone. They need constant companionship.

If you work long hours, get a companion pet.

Expecting a Low-Maintenance Cat

Burmese need daily play, interaction, and attention. They are not cats you can ignore.

Underestimating Their Need for Attention

Burmese demand attention constantly. They are not independent.

Ignoring Health Testing

Burmese can inherit hypokalemia and craniofacial defects. Choose breeders who test breeding cats.

Not Monitoring for Diabetes

Older Burmese are prone to diabetes. Monitor weight and watch for symptoms.

Finding a Burmese

Burmese are moderately popular, so finding breeders is easier than rare breeds.

Adoption

Check breed-specific rescues and shelters. Burmese occasionally end up in rescues.

Where to look:

  • Burmese rescue organizations
  • Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet (search “Burmese”)
  • Local shelters

Reputable Breeders

Expect to pay $800-$1,500 for a purebred Burmese from a reputable breeder.

What to ask:

  • Are parents hypokalemia tested?
  • Are parents screened for craniofacial defects?
  • Are parents HCM tested?
  • Can I meet the parents?
  • How are kittens socialized?
  • What health guarantees do you offer?

Red flags:

  • Breeders with constant availability
  • No genetic testing
  • Unwilling to let you visit
  • Selling kittens under 12 weeks old

Waitlists Are Common

Quality breeders often have waitlists. Be prepared to wait 3-6 months for a kitten.

Burmese vs. Tonkinese vs. Bombay

Burmese:

  • Compact, muscular build
  • Solid colors (sable, champagne, blue, platinum)
  • Gold/yellow-green eyes
  • Very affectionate

Tonkinese:

  • Burmese-Siamese hybrid
  • Pointed pattern with aqua eyes
  • Balanced personality (less demanding than Siamese)

Bombay:

  • Bred from Burmese
  • Black coat only
  • Gold/copper eyes
  • Similar affectionate personality

All three breeds are velcro cats who love companionship.

What To Do Next

  • If you want an affectionate, playful, dog-like companion who is always by your side, Burmese are perfect
  • If you want an independent cat who is fine alone, choose a different breed
  • If you have time for daily interaction and can provide companionship, Burmese thrive
  • If you work long hours and cannot get a companion pet, Burmese are not the right fit
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