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Feline breed atlas · 022 / BML

Burmilla Longhair

Silky semi-long fur and a plumed tail soften the outline of the Burmilla’s signature silver shimmer.

Origin
United Kingdom
Coat
Fine, silky semi-long coat
Build
Medium-sized, muscular and elegant
Illustrated variety
Black shaded silver semi-long coat, green eyes
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Burmilla Longhair · Black shaded silver semi-long coat, green eyes · Original breed illustration
miaomap.com · Breed atlas022 / BML

Burmilla Longhair

Black shaded silver semi-long coat, green eyes

✳ miaomap.comBreed atlas · 022

01History and origin of Burmilla Longhair

Burmilla Longhair shares its origins with the shorthaired Burmilla: an accidental mating in Britain between a Chinchilla Persian male and a lilac Burmese female in 1981. The first four female kittens, born on September 11, were shorthaired black shaded silvers and inspired a breeding program. The longhair is a semi-longhaired member of the same breed family, not a separate origin.

02Burmilla Longhair appearance and coat

Identify a medium-sized, muscular yet elegant cat with a rounded crown, moderately broad muzzle and well-developed chin. The pictured variety has black shaded silver semi-long fur, large green eyes and dark outlines around the eyes, nose and lips. Its fine, silky coat forms a bib, underside feathering, britches and a plumed tail; legs are normal-length and the face is not extremely flattened.

03Burmilla Longhair temperament and interaction

Burmillas are often described as affectionate, sociable, playful and inquisitive, with kitten-like playfulness sometimes continuing into adulthood. They may enjoy household involvement while also showing an independent streak. Introduce children and other animals gradually and respect the cat’s boundaries. Breed tendencies do not guarantee individual temperament; socialization, surroundings and everyday interactions also shape how each cat responds.

04Grooming and everyday care

Comb several times weekly, checking the bib, armpits, underside, britches and tail; adjust frequency for shedding or tangles. This silky semi-long coat generally does not require intensive grooming. Provide daily play, scratching surfaces and safe indoor activity, plus dental, claw and routine veterinary care. Feed complete balanced cat food and consult a veterinarian about individual portions and dietary needs.

Burmilla Longhair · Common questions before choosing a cat

How does Burmilla Longhair differ from the shorthaired Burmilla?

The main difference is coat length and furnishings. The longhair has fine semi-long fur with a more noticeable bib, underside feathering, britches and tail plume. Both share the same breed origins and basic body type, rather than separate ancestries.

Is Burmilla Longhair the same as a Chinchilla Persian?

No. A Chinchilla Persian contributed to the breed’s origins, but Burmilla Longhair retains a medium, muscular and elegant build. Its silky semi-long coat should not resemble a heavy Persian coat, nor should it combine an extremely short face, tiny ears, short legs and cobby body.

What distinguishes a black shaded silver Burmilla Longhair’s coat and eyes?

A pale silver-white base with black toward the hair tips creates soft shading rather than solid black patches. Dark outlines accent the eyes, nose and lips. Eyes mature into shades of green, although younger cats may have greenish-gold or yellowish tones.

Sources and production notes

Text is based on the association sources below. AI-assisted original illustrations depict one coat variety, not every individual. Health and care information is general and does not replace veterinary assessment.

Based on the association sources listed on each profile. Illustrations do not establish pedigree. Independently produced by miaomap, without association endorsement. Numbers are catalog IDs, not rarity ranks.

miaomap · Updated

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