Last Updated: 12/03/2026
Burmilla Breed Guide
Thinking of a Burmilla? Our breed guide covers facts, health and care.
Author: Dr Jenny Eales BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 4 minutes - short read
This rare and beautiful breed originated from a cross between a Burmese and a Chinchilla Persian, resulting in a cat that combines the fine, silky short coat of the Burmese with a unique shaded or tipped silver marking. They are playful, friendly, and carry a moderate energy level, making them a very good fit for a variety of households.
All about Burmillas
Place of origin
UK
Weight range
3.5 - 6.5kg
Coat type
Medium to Long, Silky
Height range
20 - 25cm
Coat colours
Shaded Silver, Burmilla
Life expectancy
13 - 16 years
Coat markings
Shaded or Tipped Silver
Grooming needs
Low
Shedding factor
Low
Health issues
Polycystic Kidney Disease, Allergies
Eye colour
Green
Energy level
Moderate
Family suitability
Very Good, Playful
Tendency to vocalise
Low
Compatability with other pets
Good
Trainability
Moderate
Nutrition
Providing a balanced and high-quality diet is fundamental for maintaining the overall health and coat condition of a Burmilla.
Best food for adult Burmillas
Adult Burmillas thrive on high-quality diets that support their moderate energy levels while maintaining a healthy weight. Since they can be prone to allergies, a diet with high-quality, novel protein sources and limited ingredients can help reduce the risk of sensitivities.
Look for foods enriched with omega fatty acids to keep their silky coat shimmering and healthy. Precise calorie control is also beneficial to prevent obesity that can exacerbate underlying health issues.
What to look for
High-quality animal proteins to support lean muscle maintenance.
Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for skin health and a silky coat.
Controlled calorie content to help manage weight and prevent obesity.
Best food for Burmilla kittens
Kittens require a nutrient-dense diet to support their rapid growth and the development of their immune system. Foods formulated specifically for kittens provide the necessary balance of protein, fats, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus for healthy bone growth.
DHA is an important inclusion in kitten food as it supports brain and vision development during these formative months. Ensuring the kibble is a suitable size for smaller mouths will also encourage proper eating habits.
What to look for
DHA from fish oil to support brain, cognitive, and retinal development.
Highly concentrated energy levels to fuel rapid growth and high play drive.
Prebiotics and antioxidants to support a developing immune and digestive system.
Flea & worming
Consistent flea and worming prevention is vital for Burmillas to prevent parasitic infections and secondary skin irritations.
Best flea and worming treatments for Burmillas
An effective parasite prevention plan for Burmillas should cover fleas, heartworm, and intestinal worms, ticks for outdoor cats and ideally ear mites and lungworm. Given their potential for skin allergies, choosing a product that is easy to apply and well-tolerated is important for their comfort.
Using an all-in-one monthly treatment can simplify the process and ensure no gaps in protection occur. This is particularly important for maintaining skin health and preventing the transmission of flea-borne diseases.
What to look for
Easy-to-administer formats such as monthly spot-ons or small, palatable tablets.
Always double check the weight range to ensure an effective dose
Comprehensive protection against fleas, heartworm, and intestinal parasites.
Health
Using the right health products is important for managing breed-specific predispositions and supporting the long-term vitality of the Burmilla.
Best products to keep Burmillas healthy
For Burmillas, health products that focus on kidney support and allergy management are highly beneficial. Water fountains are a great health investment to encourage hydration, which is crucial for kidney health in a breed prone to Polycystic Kidney Disease.
What to look for
Hypoallergenic and skin support products for cats with known skin or food sensitivities.
Weight management aids for cats prone to weight gain or with lower activity levels.
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements (EPA and DHA) to support renal health and reduce systemic inflammation.
Training and activity
Choosing the right toys and activity products is essential for keeping a Burmilla mentally stimulated and physically fit.
Best toys for Burmillas
Burmillas are playful cats that enjoy toys that stimulate their natural hunting instincts, such as wand toys, balls, and interactive puzzles. Because they have a moderate energy level, they enjoy short bursts of play followed by relaxation.
Interactive toys that challenge their intelligence are particularly effective for this breed. These can help keep them occupied and prevent boredom when they are left alone.
What to look for
Interactive puzzles that reward curiosity and intelligence.
Feather wands and chase toys to encourage physical exercise.
Durable materials that can withstand regular play sessions.
Grooming
Selecting the right grooming products is essential for maintaining the Burmilla's signature silver coat and supporting skin health.
Best grooming products for Burmillas
Although they have a low shedding factor, Burmillas benefit from regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush or a grooming mitt for short to medium haired Burmillas, or a slicker brush for longer haired Burmillas, to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils. This helps maintain the shimmer and silkiness of their coat.
Because they can be prone to skin allergies, using gentle, hypoallergenic shampoos for occasional baths is recommended. Regular nail trimming for indoor only cats should also be part of their routine.
What to look for
Soft-bristled brushes or mitts designed for short-haired cats, or slicker brushes and combs for longer haired cats.
Hypoallergenic grooming wipes or shampoos for sensitive skin.
High-quality claw trimmers with a safety guard to prevent over-cutting.
Sleep, travel and home
Choosing the right sleep and travel products ensures the Burmilla feels secure, comfortable, and safe at home and on the move.
Best beds and cat trees for Burmillas
Burmillas appreciate comfortable, plush beds where they can retreat for a quiet nap. They also enjoy cat trees that offer a vantage point for observing their surroundings, reflecting their curious nature.
Sturdy cat trees with scratching posts are ideal for allowing them to stretch and maintain their claws while protecting your furniture.
What to look for
Soft, bolstered beds that provide a sense of security and warmth.
Multi-level cat trees for climbing and elevated resting spots.
Soft, washable materials that are gentle on their fine coat and easy to clean.
Best travel accessories for Burmillas
For travel, a secure and well-ventilated carrier is essential for the Burmilla. They are generally adaptable, but having a familiar-smelling blanket inside the carrier can help reduce stress during trips to the vet or when moving.
Lightweight, sturdy carriers with easy access points are the most practical for both the cat and the owner.
What to look for
Secure, well-ventilated carriers with top and side entry for easy access.
Calming accessories like synthetic pheromone sprays to reduce travel anxiety.
Easy-to-clean materials for maintaining hygiene after travel.
Burmilla FAQ
