Burmilla
The Burmilla is a medium-sized domestic cat breed celebrated for its shimmering silver coat, expressive green eyes, and affectionate, sociable nature.
Origin Story
The Burmilla originated in the United Kingdom in 1981, the result of a serendipitous mating between a Lilac Burmese female and a Silver Chinchilla Persian male owned by Miranda von Kirchberg. The kittens from this union displayed a unique silver-tipped coat and captivating personality, prompting breeders to intentionally develop the breed. This direct cross between Burmese and Chinchilla Persian cats laid the foundation for the Burmilla, which quickly gained recognition for its distinctive appearance and charm.
Classification
The Burmilla belongs to the species Felis catus, the domestic cat, and is classified as a recognized breed within major cat registries. Its ancestry is a direct cross between the Burmese and Chinchilla Persian, placing it within the broader family of Asian and shaded breeds. The Burmilla is officially recognized by organizations such as FIFe, GCCF, and TICA, and is grouped among shorthair cats with unique coat patterns.
Appearance or Form
Burmillas are medium-sized cats with a muscular yet elegant build, gently rounded head, and a straight profile. Their most striking feature is a short, dense, and soft coat with a silvery sheen, often tipped or shaded in colors like black, blue, chocolate, or lilac. Vivid green eyes stand out against the shimmering fur, giving the breed an expressive and captivating look. The overall impression is one of refinement and subtle luxury, with tactile softness and visual brilliance.
Behavior or Usage
The Burmilla is cherished as a companion animal, known for its playful, affectionate, and sociable disposition. These cats thrive in family environments and are well-suited to multi-pet households, engaging actively with people and other animals. Their gentle temperament makes them popular both as pets and in show circuits, where their unique appearance and friendly nature are highly valued.
Merchandise & Prints
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Burmilla Poster
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Burmilla Mug
Stoneware mug, dishwasher safe
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Burmilla Shirt
Soft cotton tee, unisex sizes
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Taxon-Specific Insights
🌍Cultural Significance
While the Burmilla is a relatively recent addition to the world of pedigreed cats, its striking looks and amiable personality have made it a favorite in cat shows and among enthusiasts. The breed's origin story—a happy accident—has become a charming anecdote in feline circles, symbolizing the serendipity and artistry of cat breeding. Its shimmering coat and expressive eyes often feature in breed showcases and promotional materials, embodying elegance and companionship.
📌Notable Facts
- The Burmilla was created entirely by chance from an unplanned mating in 1981.
- Its signature silver coat is the result of combining Burmese and Chinchilla Persian genetics.
- The breed is known for vivid green eyes, a trait emphasized in breed standards.
- Burmillas are generally healthy, but some lines may inherit polycystic kidney disease from their Persian ancestry.
- Alternate names like "Asian Shaded" and "Asian Smoke" may refer to related varieties within certain registries.
📜Breed Recognition
- FIFe (Fédération Internationale Féline)
- GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy)
- TICA (The International Cat Association)
Visual Variations
Composition & Context
Taxon-Specific Insights
😺Temperament And Personality
Burmillas are renowned for their playful, affectionate, and sociable personalities. They enjoy interactive play, form strong bonds with their families, and adapt well to homes with other pets. Their gentle nature and curiosity make them engaging companions who thrive on attention and involvement in household activities.
❤️Health And Lifespan
The Burmilla is generally a healthy breed, though some individuals may be predisposed to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) due to their Persian ancestry. Regular veterinary screening is recommended to ensure early detection of any health issues. Lifespan is typical for domestic cats, with most Burmillas reaching maturity at around one year and enjoying many years of companionship.
🧼Grooming And Care
Burmillas have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Weekly brushing helps maintain their silvery sheen and reduces shedding. Regular health checks, a balanced diet, and interactive play are essential for their well-being. Owners should be mindful of potential hereditary health concerns and schedule routine veterinary visits.
🎨Common Colors And Patterns
The hallmark of the Burmilla is its silvery coat, which may be tipped or shaded in a variety of colors including black, blue, chocolate, and lilac. The breed standard allows for subtle variations, but vivid green eyes and the shimmering silver effect are always emphasized.
🌟Famous Examples
While individual Burmillas have not reached celebrity status in popular culture, the breed is well-represented in cat shows and breed showcases, often admired for its unique coat and gentle demeanor. The original litter from 1981, bred by Miranda von Kirchberg, remains a notable reference point in breed history.
🌍Regional Variants
Regional standards for the Burmilla may differ slightly, particularly in acceptable coat colors and patterns. In some registries, related varieties are referred to as "Asian Shaded" or "Asian Smoke," reflecting subtle distinctions within the Asian breed group. These naming conventions and standards can vary by country and registry.
🔖Synonyms And Nicknames
- Burmese-Chinchilla cross
- Asian Shaded
- Asian Smoke