In England back in 1981, an accidental mating occurred between a Chinchilla Persian named Sanquist and Faberge, a Lilac Burmese. The resulting kittens were so beautiful, sweet and healthy that a new and unexpected breed was born for which they became the foundation stock. The Burmilla reached North America in 1995 and achieved championship status in Canada in 1998.
The Burmilla is a medium-sized cat, weighing from 8 to 10 pounds, with a muscular body that can have either a short and silky coat like the Burmese or a long fine and silky one like its Persian ancestors, capped with a plumed and fluffy tail. These cats feel heavier than they look with the female being slightly smaller than the male. Around the lips, there is usually a penciling effect, which accentuates what has come to be known as the “Burmilla grin.” The eyes are by far the most outstanding feature of this breed. They are large, expressive and set wide apart the wedge-shaped head. Always green, shades range from very light to very dark.
This breed has an extraordinary temperament, which not surprisingly combines the demanding and impish character of the Burmese with the relaxed nature of the Chinchilla. They are intelligent and very affectionate companions. They love to open doors and cupboards and find new play things in the form of socks, pens, keys, gloves and the like. They love laps and at any given moment may abandon an activity to jump in any one that might be available. They are also great mimics and their antics are perpetually entertaining.
These cats do well in almost any household, getting along well with children, other cats and other pets. They thrive on human companionship and make wonderful, loving pets.
Do YOU own such a special cat? Please share your experiences.
Related Articles:
“The Burmese Cat: One Single Ancestor”
http://pets.families.com/blog/the-burmese-cat-one-single-ancestor