Legend places the Burmese as a divinity in ancient Buddhist monasteries, but almost all modern pedigreed Burmese can trace their ancestry back to a single walnut-brown female cat called Wong Mau, which was taken from Rangoon to the U.S. in 1930. Much research and experimental breedings were conducted with Wong Mau and her offspring until in 1936 the Burmese was accepted in United States as an official breed.
The Burmese is distinctive and appealing. Their compact, well-rounded body is well muscled, with a substantial bone structure, surprisingly heavy for their size. Round, golden eyes set wide apart in a full face give the cat a sweet open expression.
The short easy-care coat has a satin-like sheen. although the dark brown colour called "sable" is the most well known, The Canadian Cat Association also recognizes the Burmese in Blue, champagne and Platinum.
The Burmese like to travel and adapt well to most environments. They are a healthy, long-lived breed with an out-going personality that makes them excellent pets.