Burmilla

The Burmilla, a blend of the Burmese and Chinchilla Persian, owes its existence to a fortunate accident. In the early 1980s, in England, a silver Chinchilla male named Jemari Sanquist, owned by ​​Miranda Bickford-Smith, and a platinum Burmese female named Bambino Lilac Fabergé found themselves in unexpected proximity. Despite attempts to prevent it, the pair produced a litter of four shorthaired, silver-shaded kittens.

Intrigued by the unique appearance and temperament of these kittens, Bickford-Smith and Therese Clarke used careful breeding to establish the Burmilla as a distinct breed, combining the Burmese's playful spirit with the Chinchilla's elegant appearance. As the breed gained popularity, it expanded beyond its original short-hair variety to include long-haired versions.

Burmilla cats thrive with people who have time for interactive play and appreciate their intelligent, curious nature. While they are affectionate and enjoy cuddling, they also have an independent streak, making them suitable for both working professionals and stay-at-home individuals.

Burmillas are playful and intelligent cats that require mental and physical stimulation. While they enjoy relaxation, they also thrive on interactive play and exploration. Providing climbing opportunities, puzzles, and engaging in regular playtime sessions will keep your Burmilla happy and healthy. 

Burmillas are best suited for indoor living, but they still enjoy supervised time outside in a secured space (they’re too much of a flight risk to roam freely). To safely provide outdoor experiences, a secure yard or cat enclosure is ideal. These spaces should offer opportunities for climbing, exploring, and basking in the sun.

Although Burmillas are naturally clean, regular brushing is recommended to keep their coat in tip-top shape and to bond with your feline friend. Consistent grooming also provides an opportunity to check for signs of skin irritation or health issues. A greasy coat can be a red flag, indicating that your cat might not be grooming themselves properly and could be experiencing health problems. As with all cats, regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite prevention are essential for their overall well-being.

These clever cats are quick learners and can be taught various tricks through clicker training, making them enjoyable companions to train.

Burmillas are adaptable and can thrive in various household settings, but they prefer owners who can offer them regular attention and stimulation. 

The cost of a Burmilla from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.