The Burmilla began with an accidental mating in Britain in 1981, when a Chinchilla Persian male met a lilac Burmese female and produced four shaded silver kittens. The name blends Burmese and Chinchilla. Burmillas are medium-sized, usually 6 to 13 pounds and muscular, with green eyes outlined in dark color and a shimmering coat that's pale at the roots and tipped or shaded with color.
Many combine the Burmese's playful streak with the Persian's mellow calm, staying kittenish well into adulthood without being demanding. They're usually quiet and people-oriented, and a weekly comb handles either the short or semi-long coat. That low-key mix suits Columbus apartments and houses alike, though each cat's personality varies. The breed is uncommon in North America, so watch the listings on this page or look at similar breeds and nearby cities.