short, dense, silky tipped coat (a semi-longhair form also exists)
A medium, muscular cat with a pleasingly rounded look and more weight than it first appears to carry. The coat is pale near the skin with colour only at the tips, which gives it a glittering silver or golden sheen. Dark rims around the eyes, nose and lips look almost like make-up. Most are shorthaired, but a semi-longhaired version with a lighter single coat is also bred.213
Coloursblackbluebrown/seal sepiachocolatelilaccaramelredcreamtortoiseshellin silver or golden, shaded or tipped (chinchilla) patterns21
Personality what they are like
Combines the friendly curiosity of the Burmese with the calm of the Persian. Burmillas are affectionate, people-focused and fairly quiet, keep a kittenish sense of fun for life, and usually mix well with children and other animals.213
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate. Short, lively play bursts followed by long naps; climbing trees and perches are appreciated.23
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Comb or brush weekly (Hill's suggests brushing more often to lift loose hair), plus regular nail trims, ear checks and tooth care. The occasional bath helps the coat shine.23
Home where they are happiest
Suits indoor life with cat trees and high perches to climb.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A good-quality complete cat food in measured portions; keep an eye on weight if the cat is not getting much exercise.3
Company who they like around
Loves attention and petting and forms close bonds with its family.23
The story where it all began
In 1981 a Chinchilla Persian male and a lilac Burmese female at Baroness Miranda von Kirchberg's home in England mated by chance, producing four black shaded silver kittens. Their looks were so striking that a planned breeding programme followed, with a standard written in 1984.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The breed exists because a cleaner left a door open, letting the Persian and the Burmese meet.1
2
The name joins the two parent breeds: Burmese and Chinchilla (Persian).1
3
The founding parents were a Chinchilla Persian called Jamari Sanquist and a lilac Burmese called Bambino Lilac Fabergé.1
4
CFA shows Burmillas with both short and semi-long coats under the same standard.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The name Burmilla is a portmanteau of Burm-ese and Chinch-illa, indicating the two parent breeds involved in its creation.1
I start my day with a stretch on my favorite perch, then pad softly to wake my human with a gentle purr. After breakfast, I chase a toy mouse across the rug, pouncing with wild delight. When the sunbeam hits the sofa, I settle there for a long, lazy nap. Later, I help my human sort laundry by sitting in the middle of the pile. In the evening, I curl up on a warm lap, my purr a steady hum. We watch the stars through the window, and I feel perfectly content.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Accepted for registration 2011; championship status 2014; shorthair and longhair both shown2
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Burmilla, and at what times?
Feed measured portions of a good-quality complete cat food, following the label guidelines and your vet's advice. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests daily feeding, but the exact times and amounts depend on your cat's age and activity. Keep an eye on weight if your Burmilla is less active.3Pet Wiki plan
What should a Burmilla eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A good-quality complete cat food in measured portions is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a safe diet plan.35
Does a Burmilla need baths?
An occasional bath can help the coat shine, but it's not often needed. The ASPCA suggests bathing only when very dirty or sticky. Furry Diary's plan doesn't include a set bath schedule, so ask your vet or a good breeder for guidance.236
How often does a Burmilla need brushing?
Brush weekly to lift loose hair, and more often if you like. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests brushing every 7 days. This keeps the short, silky coat looking its best.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Burmilla's claws, and how often?
Trim nails every 21 days as a starting plan, but the ASPCA suggests every ten days to two weeks. Go slowly, trimming no more than two claws per session at first. Ask your vet or a good breeder for a demonstration.6Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Burmilla need?
Burmillas have moderate activity needs with short, lively play bursts followed by long naps. Furry Diary's plan includes daily play, and they appreciate climbing trees and perches. Keep play sessions fun and engaging.23Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Burmilla's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth ideally daily, as Furry Diary suggests every 2 days as a start. Check ears regularly and clean gently if needed. Ask your vet for the best routine and products.23Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Burmilla live?
Burmillas typically live between 7 and 12 years. Senior years usually start around age 11, so regular vet check-ups are important as they age.3Pet Wiki plan
Is a Burmilla good with children and other pets?
Yes, Burmillas are affectionate, people-focused, and usually mix well with children and other animals. They form close bonds with their family and keep a kittenish sense of fun for life.213
Can a Burmilla be left alone?
Burmillas love attention and petting, so they prefer company. They can be left alone for reasonable periods, but it varies by individual. Ask your vet or a good breeder for advice on your cat's needs.23
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Burmese
Persian
Asian
Asian Semi-longhair