The Birman Cat © K Cajigas 2002

What the Birman IS:

NOT to be confused with:

The modern Birman cat (also known as the Sacred Cat of Burma) is a sweet natured, semi-long haired, color pointed cat with a long, stocky body; large head, strong chin, and a Roman nose. The distinctive eyes of the Birman are nearly round, very slightly upturned at the outer corners, giving a sweet expression to the face, and blue in color. The ears are medium in size, evenly spaced on the head, and almost as tall as they are wide. The silky coat of the Birman has no undercoat and is resistant to matting. 


GC, NW Whitesox You Wild Little Indian 
Seal Lynx Point Female  - CFA's Best Birman Champion 2002

 

The point colors of the Birman include seal, blue, lilac, chocolate, and red factor; in solid and lynx (tabby) point patterns. Currently the CFA  recognizes 20 colors for competition. 
 

The Birman has white gloves on all four paws with white “laces” running to a point on the rear hocks. The gloves should be symmetrical and run evenly across the front of the paws, extending neither too high nor too low. Ideally, the laces should extend ½ to ¾ of the way up the back of the hocks, ending in a point, and they should be symmetrical. The four paws are the only areas that should contain white, white on any other areas will disqualify the cat for competition.

Birmans are very social cats. They enjoy being with people and usually get along well with other animals and children. Quiet by nature, they often communicate in chirrups and throaty purrs. They are neither very active nor very laid back, but fall comfortably in between, making this breed an ideal companion for most households. 

 

  Siamese 
(short haired, long slinky body, 
wedge shaped head, almond eyes)

          Burmese 
(short haired, compact body, 
round head, round eyes)

     Himalayan 
(long haired, short body, 
round head, short snub 
nose, round eyes)

    Ragdoll 
(long haired, long & heavy body, 
triangular head, oval eyes)