Burmese Cats for Adoption in Chicago, IL

Burmese cats are safest kept indoors, with outdoor time limited to a secure catio, an enclosed garden or a harness and leash. Their trusting, people-loving nature can lead them to approach strangers, cars or other animals. Indoor living also lowers risks from traffic, disease and parasites. Window perches and play help satisfy their curiosity.

Burmese is pronounced bur-MEEZ, with the stress on the second syllable, the same way the word is said when referring to people or things from Burma. Some people say it with a soft z sound and others with a slight s sound at the end. Both are widely understood when talking about the cat breed.

Many Burmese do seem to feel the cold, likely because their short, fine coat has very little undercoat. They often seek warm laps, sunny windows, heated beds or a spot under the blankets. Keeping your home comfortably warm and offering cozy bedding helps. A cat that seems unusually cold, lethargic or shivering should see a veterinarian.

Yes, Burmese cats generally need plenty of company. They are highly social and tend to bond closely with their people, so many become bored or stressed when left alone for long hours. Homes where someone is around often suit them best. Busy households can help by adopting a compatible second cat or a cat-friendly dog.

Yes, Burmese cats purr, and many purr readily and loudly when they are content, being petted or curled up with their people. Purring is a normal cat behavior, though cats also purr when stressed, unwell or in pain. If a normally relaxed Burmese purrs while hiding, not eating or acting unusually, check in with a veterinarian.

Burmese cats usually behave like affectionate, curious and playful companions. Many follow people from room to room, enjoy fetch and puzzle games and want to be involved in everything. They often stay kitten-like well into adulthood and get along with considerate children and other pets. Personality still varies, so an adult cat's known history is a useful guide.

A Burmese cat usually sounds softer and sweeter than a Siamese, with a gentle, somewhat raspy meow. Many make chirps, trills and conversational murmurs when greeting people or asking for attention. They tend to vocalize with purpose rather than constantly. Loud, repeated yowling that is new for a cat can signal pain, illness or stress.

Burmese cats do well on a complete, balanced commercial cat food formulated for their life stage, whether wet, dry or a mix. Because the breed is prone to weight gain and diabetes, measured meals instead of free-feeding are often recommended, and wet food can help with hydration. Your veterinarian can suggest a diet suited to your cat's health.

Good names for a Burmese often reflect its rich coat, gold eyes or outgoing personality. Coat-inspired options include Sable, Mocha, Cocoa, Toffee, Champagne or Blue, while Ruby and Jade nod to gems long associated with Burma. Many owners wait a few days to see the cat's personality, since a playful clown and a dignified lap cat may suit different names.

The Burmese originated from cats in Southeast Asia, around Burma and Thailand. The modern breed began in the United States in 1930, when Dr. Joseph Thompson brought a brown female named Wong Mau to San Francisco and bred her with a Siamese. CFA began registering Burmese in 1936, and distinct British and European types developed later.

A Burmese may become quiet because of illness, pain, stress or normal aging. Dental problems, infections, diabetes or low potassium can all make a cat less chatty and active. Changes at home, such as moving or a new pet, can also make it withdraw. A sudden change in voice or behavior is a good reason to visit a veterinarian.

A Burmese may snort because of excitement, dust or a reverse sneeze, which usually passes quickly and is harmless. Cats from lines with shorter muzzles may also make more noise breathing. Frequent snorting, sneezing, nasal discharge, noisy breathing or appetite loss can point to an upper respiratory infection, dental disease or nasal problem, so see a veterinarian.

A healthy Burmese has very little odor, so a bad smell usually signals something worth checking. Common causes include dental disease, ear infections, anal sac problems, skin infections or litter stuck in the fur. Diabetes, which affects the breed more often, can cause an unusual sweet or fruity breath odor. A veterinarian can identify the cause and treat it.