Cat breed · Semi-longhair / Shorthair (Asian group)
Burmilla
Born from an accidental Burmese × Chinchilla Persian mating in 1981, combining Burmese sociability with a softer, sparkling silver coat.
Medium12–16 yearsUnited KingdomCan suit apartments
Representative breed photography. Appearance varies within every breed.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Semi-longhair / Shorthair (Asian group)
- Origin
- United Kingdom
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–6 kg
- Height
- 25–30 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–16 years
- Coat
- Short, silver-shaded or tipped coat with dramatic 'eyeliner' markings
- Temperament
- GentlePlayfulSociableCurious
History
Created in London in 1981 when a Burmese and a Chinchilla Persian met unsupervised; the kittens were so striking a breed programme followed.
Appearance
Elegant medium cat with a silver shaded or tipped coat, green outlined eyes and a sweet expression.
Exercise and activity
Moderate; enjoys interactive play and climbing.
Care and grooming
Weekly brushing keeps the silver coat bright.
Health considerations
- Generally healthy
- Polycystic kidney disease (inherited from Persian lines — test breeding cats)
- Dental disease