Cat Burmilla: Description Of The Breed, Nature And Features Of The Content, Photos, Choosing A Kitten, Reviews Of The Owners, Breeding Cats

2024 Author: Bailey Albertson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-17 22:26

Burmilla: the exquisite lady in the feline world

Burmilla is an aristocratic cat from England. These exquisite animals have been known since the 1980s, and the breed became popular by the end of the 20th century. The owners of the tailed intelligentsia admire the noble color and balanced disposition of the purr. And caring for such cats does not require special efforts, because Burmillas are famous for their cleanliness. The main thing is to give the pussies more affection and attention.

Content

• 1 How the Burmilla cat appeared

  • 1.1 Photo Gallery: Burmilla Ancestors
  • 1.2 Video: history of origin and the Burmilla breed standard

• 2 Features of appearance

  • 2.1 Photo gallery: varieties of colors in cats of the Burmilla breed
  • 2.2 Video: cat Max of the Burmilla breed

• 3 Character and behavior

  3.1 Video: Burmilla is a rare breed of cats in Russia

• 4 Breed health

• 5 Acquisition of a Burmilla kitten

  5.1 Video: the main characteristics of the Burmilla breed

• 6 Care and maintenance issues

  • 6.1 Feeding

    • 6.1.1 Table: feeding order for Burmilla pets
    • 6.1.2 Video: Natural Cat Food

• 7 Problems of breeding Burmillas

  7.1 Castration and sterilization

• 8 Owner reviews

How did the Burmilla cat appear?

The origin of the adorable murmurs is indeed noble. After all, these ladies first saw the light in the house of Baroness Miranda von Körchberg. It all started with the fact that in 1981 the owner of several Burmese cats decided to give her husband a gift. This is the Persian chinchilla cat. The cavalier fell in love with one of the lilac-colored murkas, and as a result of mating, four females with a beautiful soft fur coat were born.

Photo gallery: burmilla ancestors

Persian chinchillas - one of the ancestors of Burmilla

Burmilla comes from the accidental crossing of two different breeds

The Burmilla breed originated from Burmese cats

The baroness liked the hybrid cats so much that she decided to fix the resulting color and continue breeding the new breed. Lady Körchberg applied to a feline organization for a breeding program. And the name of the newly appeared purrs was formed from the names of the founding breeds - Burmese and Chinchilla.

It was decided to carry out further crosses between the already existing four females and Burmese males.

Three years after the incident, in 1984, the friends of the Baroness Teresa Clark and Barbara Gazzanaiga created the Burmilla Club. Kittens from the second litter were taken as a basis, helpfully provided by Miranda von Körchberg.

This was followed by the recognition of Burmilla by international felinological organizations:

• in 1986 - official registration in CFA;
• in 1990 - obtaining champion status;
• 1995 - FIFe recognition.

The breed standard was adopted rather quickly - in 1984, thanks to the work of geneticists under the leadership of R. Robinson.

Video: history of origin and breed standard Burmilla

Features of appearance

The aristocratic origin of the graceful representatives of the breed is noticeable even in the look - smart and attentive. And the same can be said about other features of appearance.

Burmilla is distinguished by exquisite appearance

Burmillas are distinguished by a graceful, medium-sized body, which ends in a long, thin tail. The weight of animals does not exceed 5–8 kg and does not depend on gender. The height at the withers of an adult pet ranges from 26-34 cm.

The breed standard provides for other distinctive features of Burmillas:

• the head is gently rounded at the top and ends at the bottom with a wide, strong chin;
• protruding cheeks stand out strongly in cats, and in cats they have smoother outlines;
• the ears are spaced apart from each other and tilted forward;
• eyes wide open, almond-shaped;
• a dark line is drawn around the eye sockets, nose and lips;
• the nose is widened, has a distinct bend at the base;
• iris color - amber, green or tortoiseshell;
• the limbs are spindle-shaped and strong musculature.

The fur coat of thoroughbred handsome deserves special attention. At first glance, it seems that the white cat is covered with a thin transparent veil of black or brown color. It's all about the way the pigment is distributed in the villi. Based on this, two types of color are distinguished in Burmillas - tipped, when the hairs are colored dark by 1/8 part, and shaded. In the latter case, the hairs are darkened by 2/3 or 4/5 parts. There is also a brindle variety of color and solid, when the coat has a uniform tint.

The color range of colors among Burmillas is quite diverse and includes the following suits:

• brown;
• lilac;
• tortoiseshell;
• Bombay;
• tiger;
• chocolate;
• cream;
• speckled blue;
• speckled black;
• smoky.

A feature of the breed is considered to be the pure white coloration of the inner parts of the body - the breast, abdomen, chin, as well as the back of the legs and tail. At the same time, a dark woolen tubercle should protrude on the nape of the neck.

Photo gallery: varieties of colors in cats of the Burmilla breed

Chocolate Burmillas resemble their ancestors - Burmese cats

Burmilla's tortoiseshell color is the most exotic among all

The cream-colored Burmilla fur coat is a very adorable sight

Speckled-black color looks mysterious and unusual

The smoky color of the fur coat is typical for many representatives of the Burmilla breed.

The speckled blue burmilla is a very popular variety of cats.

If the animal is purchased not only as a simple pet, but also for participation in exhibitions, you need to familiarize yourself with the breed defects. After all, the shortcomings that appear in the breeding process do not allow them to win prizes, and sometimes become the reason for refusal to register for the competition.

The shortcomings of the breed include:

• weakened lower jaw;
• uneven tipping;
• brown or yellow shades on the coat;
• the appearance of tabby stripes in the presence of tipping or in a solid color.

Disqualifying signs of Burmilla are recognized:

• irregular coloration of the iris of the eyes in adults (after two years);
• oriental or cobby physique (stocky, dense);
• tousled coat with an elongated undercoat.

Video: cat Max of Burmilla breed

Character and behavior

The cute cats of this noble breed are distinguished by their balanced and gentle disposition. Even the voice of the Burmilla sounds melodic and quiet.

Burmillas have a truly angelic disposition

At the same time, an intelligent pet is not averse to playing and frolic, especially at a young age. The owners of such purrs note both the curiosity and ingenuity of the latter. High intelligence helps cats to cope with any obstacle, be it the refrigerator door or locks on kitchen cabinets.

Burmillas get along well with children, patiently enduring excessive caresses and "squeezing" without showing aggression. But other pets that appeared in the house after the "Boers", jealous people cannot stand. However, over time, they can accept a new family member and even make friends with him, be it a parrot or a dog.

The worst that can be for a Burmilla is long lonely hours without an owner. Cats become homesick when stressed. In severe cases, this leads to diseases of the internal organs and the nervous system. Therefore, people who often go on business trips, it is better not to have such a pet. Or take two cats at once, so that they entertain each other while the owner is absent on business.

Other features of the behavior of Burmillas are:

• talkativeness;
• constant following the owner everywhere;
• the desire to explore new territories (as an excuse to run away from home);
• well developed intuition;
• dislike for water and water procedures;
• positive attitude towards strangers in the house.

Also love these purrs and outdoor walks. Therefore, in order to deliver something pleasant to your pet, you should stock up on a harness and walk it more often.

Video: Burmilla is a rare cat breed in Russia

Breed health

As a rule, representatives of the breed are distinguished by strong immunity, due to which the purrs live for quite a long time. The average life span of a feline in Burmillas is 12 to 18 years.

Burmillas are in good health

At the same time, from the Persian ancestors, the fluffies got such ailment as polycystic kidney disease. The essence of the disease lies in the formation of numerous cysts on the kidneys, which, if untreated, leads to renal failure.

Polycystic kidney disease is a hereditary pathology consisting in the formation of many cavities filled with fluid that interfere with the normal functioning of the organ

To recognize the disease, you need to pay attention to the pet's behavior. Signs of renal polycystic disease are:

• lethargic, lethargic state;
• lack of appetite;
• frequent urge to urinate;
• sharp weight loss.

The combination of these symptoms gives the owner a reason to go to the veterinary clinic as soon as possible for an accurate diagnosis. At the hospital, the feline doctor will refer the tailed patient for a blood test, as well as an X-ray room. After the examination, appropriate treatment is prescribed.

Other ailments from which Burmilla can suffer are allergic reactions and congenital keratoconjunctivitis. The latter disease is characterized by dryness of the cornea of the eye with complications in the form of vascularization (germination of blood vessels in the corneal tissue).

Among the males of the breed, there is a poorly studied disease - orofacial pain syndrome, in which the cat intensively licks its lips and constantly chews with its jaw. Scientists have not yet clarified the cause of the disease.

Buying a Burmilla kitten

The main principle worth remembering for those wishing to acquire a thoroughbred pet is the right choice of place of purchase. Burmilla is best purchased from specialized nurseries, since individuals may be prone to dishonesty. The kitten may not be vaccinated and not accustomed to the tray. Or, even worse, it will not be a descendant of this aristocratic English breed.

It is better to buy a Burmilla kitten in the cattery

Since only a few Russian clubs are engaged in breeding Burmilla cats, it is worth looking for an adorable purr in foreign catteries. But then the price of a kitten will be much more expensive. In Russia Burmillas of the “pet” category (for home use) cost from 30 to 48 thousand rubles. Exhibition specimens and individuals for breeding will cost a much larger amount - up to 70 thousand rubles.

When choosing a future family pet, it is recommended to pay attention to the following details:

• the kitten should be playful and friendly;
• ears and eyes must be clean;
• the fur does not stick out in shreds and does not fall into lumps, it shines;
• the tummy does not look bloated (otherwise, the animal may have worms).

In addition, the nursery must provide all required documents - pedigree and veterinary passport of the animal.

It is best to buy a furry you like at the age of 2-3 months. It should be remembered that the standard of a true burmilla is a short pile length. And cheaper long-haired individuals that do not meet international felinological requirements are kept only by private breeders.

At the same time, the color of the cat's iris should not cause concern. It is formed in Burmillas only by the age of two. Until that time, the eyes of small kittens and adolescents can be greenish and amber.

According to the author, Burmillas are the embodiment of an intellectual cat. A keen mind betrays the expression of large eyes. And the pet's fur coat resembles silk, which you constantly want to iron. The acquisition of such a cat will become an event in the family, because now a playful and cheerful creature will settle in the house. You won't be bored with such a cat, because the inquisitive purr will follow the household everywhere. Such an animal is also suitable for lonely people, but pensioners will have to make efforts to maintain a comfortable existence of the Burmilla. After all, this mobile aristocrat loves walks in the fresh air, and in the case of constant stay locked up, she can make attempts to escape.

Video: the main characteristics of the Burmilla breed

Care and maintenance issues

The owners of these intelligent purrs love their pets also because they do not need careful care. The requirements for keeping Burmillas are practically the same as for cats of other breeds.

Burmillas, like many other cats, are very clean animals.

The pet should be taught to hygienic procedures from childhood, so that the animal in its adult state can calmly endure any outside interference.

So, the main care for the Burmilla includes:

• regular combing in order to avoid the formation of tangles and pellets (once a week, and during molting - twice a day);
• systematic bathing with special shampoos for short-haired cats (once a week);
• weekly cleaning of the ears with cotton swabs with dripping drops against the ear mite;
• rinsing the eyes with a cotton pad dipped in strong tea leaves or chamomile broth (every morning);
• weekly brushing of teeth with a special brush and paste for the cat's mouth;
• trimming the nails as they grow back (as a rule, no more than once a month) or purchasing a scratching post.

The choice of a toilet for these aristocrats should also not be a problematic issue. The tray can be purchased in both open and semi-closed form. And the filler is selected in accordance with the recommendations of the cattery where the kitten grew up.

It is important to determine the place for the tray immediately and not change it. It's good if it is a secluded corner, located away from the entrance and doorways.

Tray training will not take much time, because Burmillas are distinguished by high intelligence. It is enough to show the baby the place specially designated for the administration of natural needs twice, and the training will be successfully completed.

Feeding

Nutrition issues are very acute for pedigree cats, since the Burmillas can develop obesity from improperly selected food. And this, in turn, leads to disturbances in the work of the cardiovascular system.

Burmilla may become obese from unbalanced diet

First of all, in order to draw up the right menu, you need to decide on the number of feedings (no more than twice a day) and the size of the portions. The last parameter is calculated based on the age of the pet. So, adult purrs are not recommended to give more than 150-200 g of feed per meal.

For kittens, the amount of food and the frequency of feedings per day varies depending on age:

• from birth to four weeks of age, Burmillas feed on breast milk;
• with the beginning of the second month, complementary foods are introduced, food is given every 6 hours, the amount of food is 120–160 g per day;
• from two months, Burmillas need to be fed 5–6 times a day, while the amount of food increases to 200 g;
• from three months of life, a kitten needs 4 meals a day, and the amount of food eaten per day should not exceed 240 g;
• starting from four months, the baby is transferred to three meals a day, and no more than 250 g of food is given per day.

And only by the age of 13–17 months, the grown Burmilla is accustomed to two meals a day during the day. The prerequisites for competent feeding of cats are:

• distribution of food in a strictly defined place;
• no feeding at night.

Table: feeding order for pets of the Burmilla breed

Feed name	Volume per day for an adult cat, g	Volume per day for kittens, g
		from birth to 1 month	from 1 to 3 months	about 3 to 6 months	from 6 to 13 months
Meat dishes and offal	85-125	7-12	13–58	60–82	83-110
Fish dishes	85-105	5-8	10–45	48-61	62–83
Fermented milk products	105-210	25–35	40-105	110-125	130-145
Cottage cheese	25-60	4	5-12	13-17	18-23
Cereals	45–70	15-25	30-50	55-75	75–82
Vegetable dishes	35-50	12-16	17-25	26-34	35-45
Fish fat	1.4	2	2-3	4	4-5
Boiled chicken eggs, pcs.	no more than two per week

The basis of the diet of aristocratic cats is:

• lean meats (beef, veal, rabbit);
• poultry (chicken, turkey);
• cereal dishes (semolina, oatmeal);
• fermented milk products (cottage cheese, kefir);
• hard cheeses;
• boiled vegetables (carrots, beets, pumpkin, zucchini);
• boiled eggs (chicken, quail).

Fish should be given no more than once a week, with preference for marine species, since they have fewer small bones, which means there is less risk of choking.

In addition, you need to follow the rule that the cat is fed either only ready-made food (preferably premium), or exclusively natural food. In the latter case, it is necessary to add vitamin complexes with calcium and phosphorus to the menu.

And here are the foods that should not be given to Burmilla in order to avoid health problems:

• smoked dishes (lamb, fish, lard, grilled);
• fried foods (cutlets, kebabs, fish);
• spice;
• nuts;
• confectionery;
• flour products (pasta, bread);
• grapes;
• marinades;
• salty food (chips, crackers).

Tomatoes and eggplants are also banned, because the substances contained in such vegetables cause diarrhea and colic in tender Burmillas.

The cat should always have access to clean drinking water. To do this, you can get both a convenient plastic bowl and a special drinker.

Video: Natural Cat Food

Burmilla breeding problems

Since the breed is included in the list of the ten rarest in the world, certain difficulties arise with breeding. They are associated with a long wait for a suitable mating partner.

Breeding Burmillas is not easy and troublesome.

Those who decide to engage in breeding of hybrid aristocratic cats will need a spacious room and patience, since the descendants of the Burmese, like other oriental breeds, are characterized by increased activity and a desire to constantly and loudly meow during the mating season.

It is important to consider other points:

• estrus in cats of this breed begins at the age of 5-8 months;
• readiness for pregnancy and childbirth is formed only by 10–15 months;
• cats mature by 6–10 months and begin to mark the territory, engaging in such border marking almost all year round;
• females are ready to mate up to 10–15 times a year;
• sexually mature cats are ready to meet cats from 6-8 to 24 times a year;
• pregnancy in cats lasts about 9 weeks, or 63–68 days.

Having chosen a mating partner, you need to familiarize yourself with the pedigree of the animal and make an echogram of the internal organs. Thus, it will be possible to avoid health problems in the offspring.

Castration and sterilization

If a thoroughbred animal is purchased not for breeding, but as a "sofa" pet, it is better to castrate the pet as early as possible or apply a more gentle procedure - sterilization. In the latter case, the cat's genitals will not be removed, but only the tubules (or pipes, as in the case of females) will be bandaged.

Homemade burmilla is best castrated as early as possible

If we talk about the age from which the operation can be performed, then modern veterinarians recommend carrying out the procedure as early as possible - even before puberty. In cats, the reproductive organs can be removed from the age of 2 months, and in cats, from three months. The previously prevailing opinion about castration only after the onset of puberty has been refuted by scientists.

Modern methods of laparoscopy allow you to minimize the risks to your pet's health and complications after surgery. So, for females, the process consists in piercing the peritoneum from the side, and then removing the uterus and appendages through a small opening. Abdominal surgeries are now extremely rare.

After returning from the clinic, the animal should be looked after with special care during the day, since at this time the pet's body is recovering from anesthesia. It is necessary to give the Burmilla more water, feed it often and in small portions, and avoid falls and drafts.

Owner reviews

A cat of the Burmilla breed will become an exquisite decoration of any home and a favorite of all family members. After all, this aristocrat is distinguished by a noble appearance and a calm, judicious character. And with proper care and attentive attitude, such a pet will delight the owners with an affectionate purr for many years.