Origin:
Although the Birman originated in Burma, it should not be confused with the Burmese, a short-haired breed. How and why the breed arrived in Europe is uncertain but it was established well enough to be recognized for showing in France in 1925, in Britain in 1966 and in North America a year later.Temperament:
The Birman is intelligent and gentle with a small voice.Height/Weight:
The Birman's body is large and low on the legs, but longer than that of a Persian or Himalayan.Colour:
The long, silky hair doesn't mat but it requires regular grooming. The breed's distinct colouring sets it apart from other pointed breeds. Below the darker points on the legs there are white 'gloves' on all four paws. On the hind paws, the white extends to the first joint, coming to a point on the heel like a gauntlet. Colours are blue, seal, chocolate, lilac, red and cream points as well as tortie and lynx points. Eyes are blue.
