Birman
When a cat breed is known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, you would expect it to possess an exceptionally sweet nature along with a gentle demeanor and a quiet dign A cat of mystery and legend, the Birman is a color pointed cat with long silky hair and four pure white feet.
Last updated: October 2026 · 7 sources · see sources
| Lifespan | 9–13+ years [1] |
|---|---|
| Coat | Longhair [2] |
| Look | A cat of mystery and legend, the Birman is a color pointed cat with long silky hair and four pure white feet. [2] |
| Personality | When a cat breed is known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, you would expect it to possess an exceptionally sweet nature along with a gentle demeanor and a quiet dign [2] |
| Recognized by | CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) [2] |
Activity and exercise
When a cat breed is known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, you would expect it to possess an exceptionally sweet nature along with a gentle demeanor and a quiet dignity all its own. The Birman fulfills all these expectations and more. [2]
Grooming
Their grooming needs are relatively simple, although they can vary based on the fullness of their fur. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Polycystic Kidney Disease. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [5] |
| Cat heart disease treatment (owner bills) | $525–$1,250 | [6] |
| Cat kidney disease (CKD) care | $600–$3,500 total | [7] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- When a cat breed is known as the Sacred Cat of Burma, you would expect it to possess an exceptionally sweet nature along with a gentle demeanor and a quiet dignity all its own. [2]
- Numerous folk tales describe how the Birman obtained its unique markings, while the real Birman history keeps everyone guessing. [2]
- Birman cats are quite intelligent, they enjoy learning and typically respond well to training. [2]
Good fit for
- Our sources don't publish fit ratings for this breed. Meet the breed, talk to breeders or rescues, and read the profile above.
Common questions
How long do Birman cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of 9–13 years.
More cat breeds
Sources (7) — tap to show
- PetMD – Birman cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Birman breed profile
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Heart Disease Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- VetReceipt – Cat Kidney Disease (CKD) Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)