History of the Burmese cat: from the temple to the living room at home
The mystical origin: roots in Burma
The story of the Burmese cat, one of the most fascinating and mysterious of cat breeds, begins, how could it be otherwise, in a land full of legends and myths: Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. Deeply rooted in Buddhist culture, these cats were not only revered as temple dwellers, but also regarded as lucky charms and protectors. But how exactly did the Burmese cat's journey from spiritual symbol to popular pet cat unfold?
A ship brings news: The crossing to the New World
At the heart of the history of the Burmese cat beats a decisive event: the transfer of the first known Burmese cat to the western world. We are talking about Wong Mau, a small brown cat with a shiny coat, who was brought from Burma to California in the 1930s by the Navy surgeon Dr Joseph C. Thompson. This move was to be a turning point not only for Wong Mau himself, but also for the breed as a whole.
Wong Mau: Mother of the Burmese in the Western world
Wong Mau was more than just a cat; she was the cornerstone for the breeding of the Burmese cat in the western world. Her unique characteristics and charismatic nature fascinated not only Dr Thompson, but also the breeding community far beyond. Through targeted breeding programmes that focused on both the purity of the breed and health robustness, the popularity of the Burmese cat began to grow in North America.
Small bodies, big personality
The Burmese cat not only impresses with its silky coat and characteristic shiny golden eyes, but also with its lively and loving nature. It is said to be one of the most people-orientated cat breeds of all. Their need for interaction and affection makes them ideal companions for cat lovers. However, these characteristics are no coincidence, but the result of centuries of development and adaptation to life with and alongside humans.
- Playful and playful: Burmese cats love to be the centre of attention.
- Affectionate and loyal: They form strong emotional bonds with their owners.
- Intelligent companions: Burmese are known for their intelligence and adaptability.
A melting pot of genes: the development of the modern Burmese cat
The development of the Burmese cat in the Western world was not only a story of admiration and love for the breed, but also one of scientific curiosity and ambition. Crossbreeding Wong Mau with various other breeds, particularly the Siamese, established the distinctive look and spirited nature that we associate with the Burmese cat today. These careful breeding programmes not only led to a diversification in colour variations, but also to a strengthening of the genetic health of the breed.
Popular all over the world: the Burmese cat today
From the mystical forests of Burma to homes around the world, the journey of the Burmese cat is truly a remarkable one. Their ability to capture the heart of every cat lover has led to worldwide recognition and love for the breed.
- Appreciation by breeders and cat shows worldwide.
- A steadily growing fan community that networks through social media and cat communities.
- Ongoing breeding and protection programmes to ensure the purity and health of the breed.
Conclusion: An unmistakable legacy
The story of the Burmese cat is far more than a simple chronicle of a cat breed. It is a tale of cultural heritage, scientific curiosity, and above all, a story of the unwavering love between man and beast. From its spiritual roots in the temples of Burma to its role as a loyal companion in our modern lives, the Burmese cat remains a fascinating example of the beauty and diversity that the world of cats has to offer.
FAQs
How old do Burmese cats get?
The Burmese cat is a robust breed in itself; however, strong inbreeding sometimes leads to disadvantages such as immune deficiencies and various diseases, which in turn can shorten life expectancy. As a rule, Burmese cats can live up to 17 years, but the average life expectancy is closer to 12 years.
Are Burmese cats cuddly?
Even though Burmese cats are quite active and playful, they are characterised by their pronounced attachment to people and are therefore very cuddly. They confidently demand cuddles and attention and enjoy being close to their humans.
How much do Burmese cats shed?
Burmese cats have a particularly close-lying coat and are therefore regarded as cats that shed very little. These elegant four-legged friends, which are both stubborn and alert, are very affectionate towards their owners. Thanks to their dense and close-fitting coat, they generally shed very little hair.
Can a Burmese cat be kept alone?
Due to their high intelligence, Burmese are able to learn various tricks, such as opening doors, which often makes them excellent escape artists. As Burmese cats do not like to be alone, it is advisable to keep a second cat if you are frequently away or if you work all day, in order to do justice to their adventurous and sociable nature.
