L I F E W I T H B I R M A N S
Birman cats are wonderful companions. They are really very sweet but it is important, when they are kittens, that they are well socialised, cared and handled by the breeder from the very beginning in order to get the human imprinting.
If they hadn't got enough attentions when they were babies, they can become shy or afraid. It is better to choose a kitten who is trustworting and playful and shows curiosity in plays and human beings.
In any case, if you have adopted a kitten or adult that is shy or afraid, it dosn't mean that you cannot improve its temperament,but it will take some effort, time and method.
A part for the tipical traits of the breed, every cats is different from another and it is an unic individaul, so you cannot expect they are all the same.
Even speaking about the standard, there are so many things to look after with the birmans that it is quite difficult to get a perfection. Their beautiness stands more in the grace and harmony of the whole being, better then in their socks and gauntlets.
A B O U T D I E T A N D C A R E
Birmans cats are a very healthy breed and have normally a long life. If you choose carefully your blood lines and try to avoid inbreeding, they have more chance to be very healthy and good tempered.
Food is also important for their health so if you are not an expert in nutrition, it is better to use some specialised good quality dry food and, if it is possible, give them also some fresh cocked meat and fish to integrate their meals. The fresh food must be free from any dangerous residue like bones, etc. and it must be cocked.
Birmans are semilong haired cats with undercoat. Coat type and thickness are differerent and are linked to point colours but, generally speaking, they should be combed twice a week and increased to everyday then they change coat.
Bathing is fine but they should be perfectly dried after bath to avoid they catch a cold and it is important to use only specialised pet shampoo adapt for their skin ph.
Thooths should be checked and cleaned frequently because they tend to have tartar and it is difficult to remove it if left uncared.
