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Birman

The Birman is a long-haired domestic cat breed known for its colour-point coat, deep blue eyes, and distinctive white feet.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Birman is a long-haired domestic cat breed known for its colour-point coat, deep blue eyes, and distinctive white feet. It is also called the Sacred Cat of Burma. The breed was first officially recognised in France in 1925, and its earlier history is largely based on legend.

Appearance

The Birman is a medium to large cat with a long, silky coat, colour-point markings, and blue eyes. Its most characteristic feature is the set of white feet that are required by breed standards.

History

The Birman’s early history is uncertain and surrounded by legend linking it to Burma or Myanmar. Its documented breed development and recognition took place in France in the early 1900s.

Temperament

Breed profiles commonly describe Birmans as gentle, affectionate, and sociable cats. They are often presented as companion animals that enjoy human interaction.

Breed standards

Cat registries describe the Birman as a pointed, semi-longhaired breed with white feet and a balanced body. Different organisations note the breed’s defining colour-point pattern and distinctive white paws.

Key facts

  • Birmans are a colour-pointed cat breed with a pale body and darker points on the face, ears, legs, and tail.
  • The breed is distinguished by four white feet, often described as gloves on the front paws and socks on the rear paws.
  • Birmans typically have deep blue eyes and a silky semi-longhaired coat.
  • The breed’s documented history began in France in the early 20th century, with first recognition in 1925.
  • Breed organisations describe the Birman as a gentle, affectionate companion cat.
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Canadian context

Birman cats are a recognized companion breed in Canada through major cat-fancy and pet-breed references, and they are known to Canadian readers as a popular domestic cat breed.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Birman cat?
A Birman is a domestic cat breed known for its blue eyes, colour-point coat, and white feet.
Why is the Birman called the Sacred Cat of Burma?
The name comes from a traditional origin legend linking the breed to Burma or Myanmar, though its documented history begins in France.
When was the Birman breed first recognised?
The breed was first recognised in France in 1925.
What makes a Birman different from other colour-point cats?
Its defining feature is its four white feet, often called gloves and socks, in addition to the pointed coat and blue eyes.
Is the Birman a long-haired cat?
Yes. The Birman is a semi-longhaired breed with a soft, silky coat.
Are Birmans considered friendly cats?
Breed organisations commonly describe Birmans as gentle, loving, and affectionate companions.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birman
    Supports: Basic description, name, appearance, and first recognition in France in 1925.
  2. Cat Fanciers' Association — https://cfa.org/breed/birman/
    Supports: Breed description, white feet, and general appearance.
  3. The International Cat Association — https://tica.org/breed/birman/
    Supports: Breed description and recognition history in France and England.
  4. Governing Council of the Cat Fancy — https://www.gccfcats.org/getting-a-cat/choosing/cat-breeds/birman/
    Supports: Appearance, blue eyes, white feet, size, and lifespan.
  5. Birman Cat Club — https://www.birmancatclub.co.uk/the-birman/
    Supports: Breed standard, appearance, temperament, and colour varieties.
  6. Petfinder — https://www.petfinder.com/cats-and-kittens/breeds/birman/
    Supports: Origin history, U.S. arrival, and breed traits.