Birman
France (Burma legend) · 1920sSweet, calm colorpoint with white ‘gloves’
SizeMedium7–12 lb
Life span12–16 years
CoatSemi-long
Typical price$1,500–$2,500
Birmans are colorpoint cats with deep blue eyes and pure white paws. Their silky semi-long coat mats less than most longhairs.
At a glance
EnergyLaid-back
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldCuddly
TalkativeQuiet
GroomingRegular
SheddingAverage
With kidsGreat
With petsLoves company
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneShort gaps
Life with a Birman
They are gentle, people-oriented and quietly playful. They like being with you and get along with kids, dogs and other cats. They are neither demanding nor loud.
Great for
- Families with kids
- Multi-pet homes
- People who want a gentle longhair with easier grooming
Think twice if
- You’re out long hours and there’s no other pet
- You want a very active, athletic cat
Care tips
- Brush once or twice a week.
- Keep indoors — they are trusting.
- Watch their weight.
Health
Generally healthy. HCM occurs and some lines have kidney problems. Some are blood type B, which matters for breeding.
Ask the breeder for
- Heart scan (echocardiogram) of the parents
- Parents’ blood type
- Parents’ kidney check
Typical US price$1,500–$2,500
RegistriesCFA · TICAAsk for both parents’ papers
Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.
See Birman kittensSimilar breeds
Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.