Burmese Cat
Quick Start Care Guide

- Habitat

Environmental Conditions

Burmese cats thrive in a range of living environments, from apartments to houses, showcasing their adaptability. For optimal comfort, maintain an indoor temperature between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C) and keep the humidity levels between 30% and 50%. Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times by placing ceramic or stainless steel bowls, at least 5 inches in diameter and 2 inches deep, in multiple locations throughout your home.

Space and Layout

These cats require a minimum living area of about 18 square feet per cat, emphasizing the importance of space for play and exploration. Equip your space with cat trees, scratching posts, and window perches to cater to their natural climbing instincts and curiosity. A tall cat tree, approximately 5 to 6 feet, along with several scratching posts will offer them plenty of opportunities for physical activity and mental engagement.

Resting and Sleeping Area

Create cozy sleeping areas for your Burmese cat with soft beds or cat hammocks positioned in warm, elevated spots. It's essential to provide at least two comfortable sleeping options per cat, allowing them to choose their preferred resting place.

Bathroom or Defecation Zone

Set up a quiet and private location for your Burmese cat's litter box, ensuring it's situated away from their food and water bowls. The ideal litter box should be 1.5 times the length of your cat, at least 2 inches deep, with low sides for easy access.

Safety and Enrichment

Enhance your home environment by providing a variety of engaging toys, such as interactive puzzles, feather wands, and small balls. Rotating these toys regularly will keep them interested and prevent boredom. If feasible, create a secure outdoor space like a catio or an enclosed balcony to let your Burmese cat enjoy fresh air safely while observing the outside world. Additionally, installing window seats or secure perches will satisfy their love for watching birds and outdoor activities. For mental and physical stimulation, designate a play area with tunnels, hiding spots, and interactive toys, ideally around 30 square feet if space permits.

- Diet

Nutritional Requirements

Burmese cats require a diet that is rich in protein, with at least 50% of their calories sourced from animal proteins such as chicken, turkey, or fish. To meet their energy needs, these cats typically require around 20-33 calories per pound of body weight daily, depending on their activity level and age. Inclusion of both high-quality wet and dry food is essential to ensure proper hydration and maintain good dental health, with a suggested ratio of 70% wet food to 30% dry food.

Feeding Schedule and Portions

For adult Burmese cats, it is recommended to feed them two to three meals throughout the day, with each meal comprising approximately 1/4 to 1/3 cup of dry food or 2.5 to 3 ounces of wet food. Kittens under six months should be provided with three to four smaller meals daily. Due to their tendency to become obese, careful monitoring of their food intake and appropriate adjustments in portion sizes are crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Utilizing a body condition score chart can aid in regularly assessing their weight.

Water and Hydration

Ensuring access to fresh, clean water at all times is important for the well-being of your Burmese cat. Consider using a cat water fountain to encourage them to drink more frequently, particularly as these cats may be prone to urinary tract issues.

Dietary Variety and Supplements

To promote overall health, consider introducing dietary variety through supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, which can benefit coat health and joint function. However, it is always advisable to consult with your veterinarian before adding any new supplements to your Burmese cat's diet. Additionally, when transitioning to new foods, do so gradually over a period of 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset by mixing increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food.

Special Dietary Considerations

If your Burmese cat has specific health concerns, such as diabetes or kidney issues, it’s essential to consult your veterinarian regarding specialized diets or prescription foods that may be beneficial. Additionally, be vigilant about potential food allergies or sensitivities, which can manifest as symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or skin issues. If observed, it’s important to work with your veterinarian to identify potential food triggers and make necessary dietary adjustments. Avoid feeding your cat human foods, particularly those high in fat or containing toxic ingredients such as onions, garlic, chocolate, or grapes, and limit cat-specific treats to no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake.

- Hygiene

Grooming and Cleaning

Burmese cats possess short, fine coats that require minimal grooming, but to keep your home free from excess cat hair and to maintain their coat's sheen, it's beneficial to brush them weekly with a soft-bristle brush or grooming mitt. This practice not only removes loose hairs but also distributes natural oils across their coat, ensuring it stays healthy and shiny. Bathing is typically unnecessary due to their self-cleaning nature; however, an occasional bath every few months or when they get dirty can help refresh their coat and eliminate any oily buildup. When bathing, use lukewarm water and a gentle, cat-specific shampoo, ensuring your cat is completely dried afterward to prevent skin irritation. To make this process more enjoyable for your cat, prepare all supplies in advance and offer treats and praise throughout the bath time. Additionally, regular nail trimming is critical for Burmese cats and should be performed every 2-3 weeks using cat-specific nail clippers, ensuring you only trim the sharp tips and avoid the quick. Gradually helping your cat get used to having their paws handled through gentle touching and positive reinforcement can make this task easier.

Living Area Sanitation

To maintain a clean living environment for your Burmese cat, clean their litter box daily and conduct a thorough cleaning with soap and water on a weekly basis. Regularly washing their bedding and toys and vacuuming areas where they spend time can significantly reduce loose hair and dander, contributing to a healthier home.

Dental and Skin Care

Dental care is paramount for Burmese cats in preventing periodontal disease. Brush their teeth 2-3 times a week using a cat-specific toothbrush and toothpaste, and avoid using human toothpaste, as it can be harmful. Providing dental treats and toys can also aid in maintaining oral hygiene between brushings. Additionally, routine checks for skin health during grooming are important. Monitor your cat for signs of dryness or irritation and ensure their diet is balanced and rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Parasite and Pest Prevention

For optimal ear health, clean your Burmese cat's ears weekly with a damp cotton ball or soft cloth to eliminate dirt and wax buildup, while avoiding any insertion into the ear canal. If you notice any unusual odors, redness, or discharge, consult your veterinarian. Eye care is also crucial; regularly check and gently clean your cat's eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove any discharge, and seek veterinary advice if persistent redness, swelling, or excessive tearing is observed.

- Exercise

Physical Activity Needs

Burmese cats are known for their high energy levels and playful nature, requiring at least 20-30 minutes of dedicated playtime each day to maintain their physical and mental well-being. To prevent obesity and maintain muscle tone, it is essential for these cats to have numerous opportunities for exercise throughout the day. Placing food bowls and litter boxes on different levels of your home encourages movement, while interactive toys, such as wand toys with feathers, small plush toys, and food dispenser balls, can also stimulate their natural instincts to chase, pounce, and leap.

Play and Enrichment

To keep your Burmese cat engaged, provide a variety of toys including puzzle feeders, crinkly balls, and small toys they can bat around. Rotate these toys every few days to maintain interest and prevent boredom. Burmese cats love climbing, so incorporating a sturdy cat tree or wall-mounted shelves will not only provide exercise but also give them a place to survey their territory. Engaging in play sessions that mimic hunting behaviors, such as hiding treats around your home or using a laser pointer, can significantly enrich their environment. Always conclude these sessions with a physical toy they can 'catch' to satisfy their hunting instincts.

Safe Exercise Spaces

Consider setting up a safe outdoor enclosure or 'catio' for your Burmese cat, allowing them to experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors in a controlled environment. This not only provides mental stimulation but also satisfies their curiosity about the world beyond your home.

Mental Stimulation

Mental stimulation is crucial for Burmese cats, who enjoy learning and problem-solving. Incorporate short training sessions into your daily routine, aiming for 5-10 minutes a few times a day. Use positive reinforcement techniques with treats or praise to encourage desired behaviors. Additionally, consider providing food puzzles to challenge their minds. Burmese cats can also learn commands such as 'sit,' 'come,' or even enjoy playing fetch, which strengthens the bond between cat and owner. Finally, consider introducing them to water play, whether through a shallow dish, a pet fountain, or a dripping faucet, as many Burmese cats find this form of enrichment enjoyable.

- Vet

Preventative Care

Maintaining your Burmese cat's health requires diligent preventative care, which includes regular veterinary check-ups at least once a year for adults, and more frequently for kittens and seniors. During these visits, your veterinarian will carry out comprehensive physical examinations, blood tests, and necessary screenings to ensure your cat stays healthy. Additionally, vaccinations are vital to protect against infectious diseases; core vaccines such as those for feline panleukopenia, feline herpesvirus, feline calicivirus, and rabies must be administered according to your veterinarian's schedule. Kittens typically receive initial vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks, followed by boosters until they are 16-20 weeks old, while adult cats require booster shots every 1-3 years based on risk factors. Furthermore, implementing a year-round parasite prevention program that includes monthly treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworms is essential. Regular deworming is also recommended, especially for cats that are outdoors or interact with other animals. Consult with your veterinarian to establish a tailored parasite control plan. Lastly, ensure your Burmese cat follows a healthy diet and exercise routine to prevent obesity and related health issues, incorporating high-quality cat food suitable for their age and lifestyle along with ample playtime to keep them engaged.

Signs of Illness

Being observant of your Burmese cat's health is crucial; look out for signs of illness or injury, which may include changes in appetite, thirst, litter box habits, or energy levels. Additional warning signs involve vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, or discharge from the eyes or nose. If you notice difficulty breathing, limping, or any visible wounds, it is important to seek veterinary attention promptly, as early intervention can lead to better outcomes and prevent minor issues from escalating into serious health problems.

- Training