What breeds make a Birman cat?

Do Birman cats have a lot of health problems?

Luckily, Birman cats don’t have a lot of health problems to worry about. Like a number of other cat breeds, they are susceptible to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), which is a disease of the heart, as well as kidney disease called polysystic kidney disease (PKD).

When did the Birman cat come to the US?

It was recognized in France in 1925 as the Sacre de Birmanie, from which comes the current breed name, Birman. The cats were first imported to the United States in 1959 and were recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1967.

Do Birman cats make good pets?

Birman cats have distinctive blue eyes and pure white feet called gloves or socks. There is no accurate record of the Birman’s origins. Still, the first examples may have arrived in the western world as early as 1919. Birmans are affectionate, friendly, intelligent companions that love people. Furthermore, it is said they make great family pets.

How popular is the Birman cat?

The Birman is one of the more popular cats. In a cat breed popularity survey (currently running) on this site this breed ranks just outside the top 10 (at early 2008). There are about 70 breeds listed on this site. This cat breed may be more popular in the UK as at one time it was about 4th most popular. Of course popularity is a fickle thing.

What kind of cat is a seal point Birman?

A seal point Birman. The Birman, also called the “Sacred Cat of Burma”, is a domestic cat breed. The Birman is a long-haired, color-pointed cat distinguished by a silky coat, deep blue eyes, and contrasting white “gloves” or “socks” on each paw.

What health problems do Birman cats have?

International Cat Care reports that Birmans are prone to the following conditions. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD). An inherited genetic short life span of as little as 8 months. Over 3% of Birmans in France could be carrying this gene.

When should I bring my Birman kitten home?

Kittens- From the time you bring your Birman kitten home (usually 8-12 weeks) through about 6 months old, he will typically want to play almost as much as his companions will tolerate. Playtime is a critical part of your cat’s development, so it’s important to spend as much time as possible with your Birman during this time.

What does a Birman cat look like at maturity?

At maturity, Birman cats are always color pointed, with the mask, ears, legs, and tail all clearly defined. The mask should cover the entire face, including the whisker pads, and should be connected to the ears by color tracings.

What color is seal point Birman?

Seal point coloring is a golden cream (or beige) color with dark seal brown markings found primarily around the face, ears, and paws. 2. Blue Point Blue point is another classic pattern found for the Birman.

What kind of health problems do Birmans have?

Health Problems. MEDIUM: Birmans are fairly healthy but have a propensity to become overweight or obese. Regulate their food intake to prevent this condition. There is also a possibility of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) affecting the breed.

What are the risks of having a Birman cat?

Birmans who go outdoors also run the risk of being stolen by someone who would like to have such a beautiful cat without paying for it.

Are Birman cats friendly?

Bred as companion cats, this elegant breed loves affection and is heavily people-orientated. Smart, friendly, and quiet, Birman cats are adaptable and tend to be friendly with everyone and everything, including other animals.

Do Birmans like to cuddle?

The Birman is a breed that is known for being a true companion. These kitties prefer being near you, so they will opt to sit in your lap or cuddle with you as often as possible. (Photo credit: Borkin Vadim/Shutterstock)

Do Birman cats like to go outside?

Birman cats are mostly indoor cats and they do not like to go outside. While some of them may step out of the house from time to time, most Birman cats prefer a domestic environment or a home in an urban, suburban, or rural area. Who do Birmans live with?

What does seal point mean on a cat?

Seal Point. Seal point refers to the coloration of certain types of cats. A seal point cat has a beige or fawn colored body and dark brown legs, ears and a tail.

Is a seal point Siamese a black cat?

So a seal point Siamese is, in fact, a black cat, but the Himalayan gene has prevented the black colouration from showing on the warmer parts of the body. Pointed kittens are born all white, which makes sense because they are in a constantly warm environment in their mother’s uterus.

Can you tell a seal point kitten apart from a chocolate point?

An interesting fact about these cats is it can get difficult to tell Seal Point kittens apart from their Chocolate Point counterparts. These cats at a very young age tend to look alike, but over time, they grow darker shades on areas they’re expected to have brown spots.

What is the average life expectancy of a Birman?

She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. The average life expectancy for a Birman is 12-16 years.

Are Birman cats prone to kidney disease?

Some lines of modern Birman cats may descend from Persians, who are also prone to kidney disease. Because of this, Birmans may be more susceptible. When shopping or adopting a Birman, or any other, make sure to get a clean bill of health from a vet and verify your cat’s hereditary lines.

What kind of heart disease does a Birman cat have?

Not specific to Birman cats, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart condition in cats. It causes the walls of the heart muscle to thicken and can cause the heart to increase in size.

What are Birman cats like as pets?

Birman cats are also very inquisitive and outgoing. They are known to be social, gentle and loving with people and other animals. A cat behavior that brings out its unique personality is its patience. This breed is tolerant and even-tempered which makes it the perfect pet for a family.

Are Birman cats good indoor cats?

Birmans adapt very well to being kept as indoor pets which is especially useful if you live in town or near any busy roads. However if you live in the country and it’s safe for a cat to roam around in the great outdoors Birmans do love exploring their environment so they can mark their territory.

Do Birman cats like to be on your lap?

A Birman, if not on your lap, will always be in your proximity or even in the baby’s crib. He will answer in a sweet voice if you talk to him and he will always greet you with a loving welcome. What grooming care does the Birman coat require?

What is a seal colour cat?

The “seal” name for this colour pattern type literally comes from a seal and the colour of its coat. It’s a dark brown/ blackish colour. You can always distinguish ragdoll cats as a seal colour from this dark colour.