The Burmilla is a breed so new, there’s not much information about it in our Cat Breeds section. One Burmilla cat owner writes, “They are the best of both worlds: They can be playful, intelligent and very active but also can settle down after playtime and cuddle up to you.” Here are nine reasons we love this hybrid cat.

1. That name … Burmilla

Like the “ship names” popularized in celebrity culture — think “Brangelina” and “Kimye” — the Burmilla earned its name in the simplest way imaginable: combining its origins — the Burmese cat (Burm) and the Chinchilla Persian (illa).

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2. Is that cat wearing eyeliner?

Burmillas all share a very distinctive fea- ture: a dark outline around their expressive eyes. It’s a result of their lineage — not a covert raid of your makeup bag.

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3. Burmillas are bundles of energy

Burmillas are energetic, and remain playful and fun-loving through adulthood. That said, the Burmilla has klutzy tendencies, so put away the glassware!

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4. Love that coat

The main attraction of the Burmilla is that stunning silver-meets-white coat. Whether semi-long-hair or short-hair, the Burmilla’s coat is soft and silky to the touch, and tipped or shaded with a contrasting color.

5. They’re gymnasts in cats’ clothing

Burmillas love to climb and jump and are highly athletic. This trait, paired with their muscular, lithe, lean forms and long, slender legs, creates the notion of being furry acrobats — high-flying ones at that!

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6. You’ve got a friend

Friendly, affectionate, devoted — the Burmilla provides constant companionship, and takes up residence in a vacant lap.

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7. We are fam-i-ly

Burmillas thrive in family environments. They love other cats, children, cat-friendly dogs, and other animals.

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8. What’s up with their odd proportions?

Females are generally smaller and daintier than the males; however, both sexes share a commonality: hind legs that are longer than their forelegs.

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9. The Burmilla is new — and rare

The first litter came into this world on Sept. 11, 1981, the breed is still quite rare throughout the U.S. and only became recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association in February 2011.

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