How to Identify a Birman Cat

Birman cats were once believed to be sacred by the people of Burma. After being shipped to France, the Birman breed had a weak start. At the end of World War II, there were only two cats left. After many generations of specialized breeding, Birmans were recognized in the mid-1960s by the English and the Cat Fanciers Association.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the colorings. Birman cats tend to be a light golden coloration in seal point, chocolate point, blue point and lilac point.

2. Feel the coat. The Birman's fur is long and thick but smooth in a way that generally prevents matting. The fur around the neck tends to be very thick.

3. Evaluate the face. The eyes of the Birman are rounded and blue. The nostrils tend to be low-set and the face square.
   
   

4. Look at the stockings. This breed has distinctive white paws. It generally has flat tops on the white paws in the front and peaks behind the back feet.
   

5. Pick up the cat. This breed tends to be on the chunky side. They are medium-sized cats, but they appear larger due to the thickness of their fur coats.

Tips & Warnings

• Regular washing will keep the light-colored fur from appearing dingy.
• Although the fur does not knot easily, regular brushing will keep your Birman cat looking smooth.
• Due to the length of hair, it is useful to occasionally check the anus area of your cat to ensure there is no matted excrement there.
• Watch carefully for changes in weight. The thickness of this breed's fur can make it harder to notice changes in weight. Make it a habit to pick up your cat and feel its belly and ribs.