10 Birman Cat Facts

Birman History

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The oldest and most widely believed version of the Birman breed history is that the cat originated in Burma, where it was considered a sacred companion to temple priests.

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Coming to America

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The Birman arrived in the U.S. in 1959 and was registered with the Cat Fanciers Association in 1967.

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Color Comes With Age

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Birman kittens are born all white. Their colorings come in as they mature. The Birman's coat comes in light colors offset by darker points visible on the face, legs and tail.

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Minimal Grooming Required

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The coat of this breed requires minimal care and doesn't mat. It needs a comb-through about once a week.

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About the Fur

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The breed comes in many colors, including seal, blue, lilac, chocolate, red, cream and tortie. These colors can be either a solid pattern or a lynx pattern.

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Likes to Play

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Overall, Birmans are gentle cats that enjoy a good playtime. They can even be taught tricks, like how to fetch.

MORE: 11 Mother Cats Snuggling Their Kittens

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White Paws

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One way a Birman is unique is that the breed always has white paws.

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A Social Cat

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This breed likes the company of people and other pets. It's best to keep a Birman in a multi-pet household so that it doesn't get lonely.

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Pretty Peepers

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Birmans are known for their striking blue eyes.

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Chilling on the Floor

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This breed likes to hang out at ground level rather than climb to high perches or hang off the curtains.

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