The Burmilla is a breed that originated in the United Kingdom in 1981 as a result of an accidental mating between a Chinchilla Persian male and a Lilac (Platinum) Burmese female. The resulting offspring were so impressive in type and vigor that it was decided to proceed with a breeding program using this hybrid with Burmese cats. As a new breed to North America introduced in 1995, the Burmilla reached CCA championship status in Canada in 1998.
The Burmilla is a cat of Burmese type and temperament with coat colours not found within the Burmese. It is a medium-sized cat with a short and dense coat that has a bit of a "lift" to it.
Since the Burmilla carries a recessive long-haired gene from the Chinchilla Persian ancestry, long-haired kittens appear from time to time. The coat of a long-haired Burmilla is fine and silky, longer at the ruff and with a flowing plume-like tail. This long-haired coat however does not tangle and requires little grooming.
An easy-going and relaxed cat, the Burmilla has an affectionate and playful nature. Like its Burmese predecessors, the Burmilla is energetic and loving, making it an excellent pet and are produced in long and shorthaired varieties.