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Burmese: temperament, health and care
Burmese: temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this cat suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium, about 3.5–6 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–16 years |
| Exercise | Moderate to high |
| Grooming | Short coat; minimal grooming |
Temperament and who it suits
People-oriented, playful and affectionate; moderately vocal.
Often suits: people at home who want an interactive cat.
Watch weight, as the breed has a higher risk of diabetes.
Health problems to know about
- Diabetes mellitus
- Dental disease
- Low potassium (hypokalaemia)
- Some inherited skull defects
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Burmese
- See the kitten with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped by 20 weeks old in England
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have cats like this looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to cats for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Burmese live?
A Burmese typically lives 12–16 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Burmese need?
Moderate to high.
What health problems are common in a Burmese?
Common concerns include diabetes mellitus, dental disease, low potassium (hypokalaemia) and some inherited skull defects. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Burmese need?
Short coat; minimal grooming.
Who does a Burmese suit?
It often suits people at home who want an interactive cat. Watch weight, as the breed has a higher risk of diabetes.
Similar cats
Sources
- International Cat Care: cat breeds and health
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Cats Protection: compulsory microchipping of cats in England
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.