An accidental beauty — born from an unplanned crossing of a Chinchilla Persian and a Burmese. The Burmilla inherits the best of both: the Burmese's playful warmth and the Chinchilla's shimmering, silver-tipped coat.
- Origin
- United Kingdom
- Category
- shorthair
- Lifespan
- 10–15 yrs
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–6 kg
- Coat
- Short, fine, shimmering silver with tipped or shaded colour
- Colours
- Silver base with black, blue, brown, lilac, or caramel tipping
😺 Temperament
🏡 Best suited to
📊 Personality ratings
📜 History & origin
The Burmilla came into existence entirely by accident. In 1981, Baroness Miranda von Kirchberg's lilac Burmese female, Bambino Lilac Faberge, escaped her quarters and mated with the household's Chinchilla Persian male, Jemari Sanquist, while awaiting his move to a new home. The resulting four kittens were so beautiful that the Baroness began intentionally developing the cross. The UK's Governing Council of the Cat Fancy recognised the breed in 1994. They remain relatively rare worldwide.
🧼 Care & grooming
One of the easiest coats to maintain — a weekly brush and occasional wipe keeps the shimmering silver coat pristine. The breed blends the Burmese's sociability with the Chinchilla's relaxed temperament. They enjoy play without the intensity of a full Burmese and are content to sit quietly without the demanding neediness of a Siamese. Nail and ear checks every few weeks suffice for routine grooming.
🩺 Health notes
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) has been reported from the Chinchilla Persian side of the lineage — DNA testing is available and should be confirmed by breeders. Otherwise a healthy breed with good hybrid vigour from its cross-breed origins. Progressive Retinal Atrophy has occasionally been noted. Dental care is important from kittenhood.
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