The Burmilla Cat: One of the Domestic Cat Breeds
Cats are among the most popular pets that many people choose to have. They are known for their calmness, intelligence, and beautiful appearance. There are various breeds of cats, including the Persian, Calico, Japanese, Abyssinian, Siamese, and more. Cats are known for their love of play and amusement, possessing keen hearing, the ability to see in the dark, a strong sense of smell, and a penchant for long hours of sleep.
Characteristics of the Burmilla Cat:
The Burmilla cat is a type of domesticated feline, originating from a British lineage. It resulted from a chance crossbreeding between the Chinchilla breed and the Burmese breed. There is a shorthaired variation of the Burmilla cat, known for its intense curiosity, high intelligence, and extreme friendliness. It has white fur and green eyes, and it quickly acquires new skills.
There's also a longhaired variety of the Burmilla, which doesn't differ significantly from the shorthaired version. The Burmilla cat is a preferred choice for families or individuals who enjoy raising and having cats due to its intelligence and affection towards its owners.
Breed History:
The Burmilla breed emerged from a chance crossbreeding between an unrecognized lavender Burmese cat and a Persian Chinchilla cat. The first Burmilla appeared in 1981, gaining international recognition from professional breeders in 1987. It's believed that a true and pure breed requires at least five generations. The breed is found in Europe, America, and Australia, but it's still quite rare in Russia.
Physical Characteristics:
The Burmilla combines traits from both parent breeds. Its build is medium-sized, resembling the Burmese, and its fur, although not extensive, is not as thin as the Chinchilla's. Despite this, the Burmilla's appearance is astonishingly beautiful.
The average weight of the cat ranges from 4 to 7 kilograms. It has a dense bone structure with well-developed muscles. The head is small, with a broad muzzle and a narrow triangular nose. The cheeks are well-defined, and the chin provides a strong visual presence. The slightly slanted almond-shaped eyes are green in color. The white color adds a rare and captivating beauty not commonly seen in other cat breeds.
The fur comes in both short and long varieties. It's fine and soft, with a small undercoat that gives it a lifted appearance.
Health Considerations:
Burmilla cats are prone to allergies and polycystic kidney disease. Therefore, their diet requires special attention, and it's recommended to consult a specialist for dietary recommendations. Breeders should monitor the cat's response to any changes in its diet.
Care and Attention:
Despite its medium-length fur, the Burmilla can develop mats. To avoid this, professionals suggest combing the cat once a week to remove excess fur and prevent matting.
Bathing once or twice a month is necessary. The Burmilla cat enjoys fresh air and outdoor activities, so it's important to fulfill its needs and provide opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.
Burmilla cats are socially adaptable and suitable for everyone, including singles, couples, children, and families. They are affectionate, obedient, active, curious, and their behavior is often likened to that of dogs. This is why they are often raised alongside dogs.