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 Cat Breeds - There are a variety of different cat breeds. Read about the many domestic cat breeds, including the Maine Coon and Siamese cats. And view the many cat breeds pictures to see how each breed differs dramatically in coat length and overall look.
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Birman Cats. Birman Cats breed profile. Information on the history of Birman cats,characteristics and temperament of the Birman, plus pictures of Birman cats and more...
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BIRMAN CATS
Birmans possess a wonderfully balanced temperament and an
unruffled serenity. Their intelligence and curiosity are wrapped in
an endearing sweetness. Their soft voice and delicate touch are
tokens of a self-possession that borders on the spiritual.
History
Birman cats are believed to have originated in Burma, where they were
considered sacred because people believed the souls of departed
priests returned to their country's temples in the guise of
pure-white Birman cats.
According to Legend, Birmans developed the
colours they are today after the Temple of LaoTsun was attacked and
the head priest killed.
At the moment of death his cat placed his
feet on his master and faced the golden goddess of the temple, who
had deep blue eyes. The cats previously white fur took on a golden
cast, and his eyes turned as blue as the eyes of the goddess and his
face, legs and tail became the colour of earth.
However, his paws,
where they touched the priest, remained white as a symbol of purity.
All the other temple cats became similarly coloured. Seven days
later, the cat died, joining his master in death.
They are very calm and get along well with other family pets and
well-behaved children. Birmans do not require regular brushing to
keep their soft, fluffy coats in good shape, though many enjoy the
grooming experience as a chance to bond with their owners. They
are the perfect choice for the cat lover who is looking for a pet
that is as nice to cuddle as they are to look at.
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Description
The
ideal Birman is a large, long stocky cat. It has long silky hair,
not as thick as that of the Persian, and is of a texture that
doesn't mat.
The colour of the coat is light, preferably with a
golden cast, as if misted with gold. The 'points' - face, legs and
tail - are darker, similar to the Siamese and colour-pointed Persian
colour patterns of seal point, blue point, chocolate point and lilac
point.
The almost round eyes are blue, set in a strong face with
heavy jaws, full chin and Roman nose with nostrils set low.
The very
distinctive white feet are ideally symmetrical. The gloves on the
front feet, if perfect, go across in an even line, and on the back
feet end in a point up the back of the leg, called laces.
It is very
difficult to breed a cat with four perfect white gloves.
Characteristics and Temperament
The Birman personality is gentle,
active, playful, but quiet and unobtrusive if you are busy with
other things.
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