The Birman cat breed, also known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, is a medium to large, semi-longhaired, ivory-colored cat with darker color points on the ears, face, legs and tail and an overall golden sheen. Among its most distinctive features are pure white paws on all four feet called “gloves,” which preferably are symmetrical. Birmans also have white, v-shaped areas on the hind legs that come to a point on the back of the hock; these are called “laces.” Only Birmans with near-perfect glove and lace markings are competitive in the show ring. The Birman’s silky coat is less prone to matting than that of the Persian or Himalayan, although it does require more attention than the coat of a short-haired cat. Birmans come in a number of beautiful colors, including: solid color points in seal, blue, chocolate, lilac, red and cream; parti-points in seal-tortie, blue-cream, chocolate-tortie and lilac-cream; and lynx-points in seal, chocolate, blue, lilac, red, cream, seal-tortie, chocolate-tortie, blue-cream and lilac-cream. Kittens are born almost entirely white. They develop their darker points of whatever color over time. Birmans have round, deep blue eyes set widely above high cheekbones and a slightly Roman-shaped nose. This gives them an especially sweet facial expression. This is a strikingly beautiful breed that gives an overall impression of power and balance.

Birmans have marvelous dispositions. They are friendly, self-assured, extremely inquisitive and playfully outgoing, without being overly pushy. They are known to follow their owners around the house like puppies. Birmans need and appreciate human companionship, and are especially fond of children. This is a happy, trusting and adaptable breed. Its incredible beauty is just icing on the cake.