The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Classic Body Type

European Burmese

Burmese-type build with a distinct breed standard

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Vocality
Medium
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Temperature sensitivity
Low

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Single
Coat length
Short

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want the compact Burmese-type build but prefer this standard's specific look/finish

Not ideal

  • Want an extreme long/lean Oriental-style outline

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often engaged and people-aware—moderate energy with a companion-style rhythm in many lines.

Handling & social style

Typically does best with consistent gentle contact; many prefer frequent small check-ins over intense handling.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Straightforward coat care; differences are mostly standard/type and line, so sourcing quality matters more than special routines.

Environment & space

Typical indoor homes work best with a predictable daily rhythm and consistent play outlets.

Daily routine

Minimal grooming; consistent interactive play and social time tends to be the practical lever.

Health sensitivities

Favor programs with clear screening + follow-up (what they test, what they see as cats mature, and how they act on results).

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

United Kingdom

Background

Developed from the same general Burmese foundation but shaped under a European/UK breed standard. It keeps the compact “solid” silhouette while diverging in details from the American Burmese type.