APPEARANCE

The Birman breed is a semi-longhair breed, FIFe Standard Category II.

Birmans give the impression of a robust cat. They are medium in size. The average weight of Birman females is about 3.5kg, average males weigh about 4.5-6kg.

Legs are short and strong, paws are rounded.

The Birman's head is wider, not too triangular, with a rounded forehead and a firm chin. The nose is of medium length and has a "Roman profile".

The eyes are slightly oval and their colour must be deep blue. Ears are rather small with rounded tips, with medium width between them.

The tail is of medium length, forming a plume and ideally reaches between the shoulder blades.

The Birman's coat is silky and light, with points that are in good contrast to the body colour (darker face, ears, legs, tail and also genitals in males). The coat is white to eggshell colour and darkens with the age of the cat.

The markings can be seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red and cream.

The special feature of Birman cats are their white feet, called "gloves". The gloves on the back paws, called "gauntlets", finish with in inverted "V".

TEMPER

The Birman cat has a calm, balanced personality. It adjusts and learns easily, and is very intelligent. The Birman is not a reserved cat that avoids company. It is not too snuggly, nor too independent. It does not seek too much attention, but when it needs to be close to you, it will get your attention in a very quiet way.

Birman cats lack signs of aggression. They express their dissatisfaction by snuffling. If they find themseves in an uncomfortable situation, they choose to escape. Birman cats tolerate other pets so they get along well with kids.
They are not destructive so you do not have to worry about scratched or damaged furniture.

Vocal expressions of Birman cats are very gentle and melodic. They are a bit louder only when in heat.

CARE

The Birman's hair does not mat thanks to its structure so maintenance is very simple, gentle combing once a week is enough. When cats shed, the frequency of combing can be slightly increased to prevent potential problems caused by hairballs in their digestive system.

Other care is the same as with all cat breeds.