The Burmilla (a portmanteau of Burm-ese and Chinch-illa ) is a breed of domestic cat, that originated in the United Kingdom in 1981.

[1][2][3][4] In GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy), the Burmilla is considered part of the Asian group.

The Tiffanie from the UK is also originating from crossbreeding chinchilla Persian and Burmese cats similar to the Burmilla, and is the semi-longhaired variety in the Asian Group.

The name's use is declining in favour, due to the lax standards for the breed name, the lack of unique identity and the varied genetic makeup.

Their distinguishing feature is their sparkling silver coat, and distinctive "make up" lining the nose, lips and eyes.

Gently rounded top of head; medium width between ears; wide at eyebrow level and jaw hinge, tapering to a short, blunt wedge.

These cats have a semi-longhair coat following the lines of the body, with a soft, silky feel and a large plumed tail.

The Burmilla sports a variety of coat colours, including black, blue, brown, chocolate and lilac.

Red, cream and tortoiseshell (calico) varieties have been bred, although these colours are not recognised by CCCA in Australia.

Shaded Burmillas have 1/4 - 1/2 of their hair length pigmented, giving the appearance of a mantle of colour over the back, shoulders and outside of the legs.

The smoke pattern is not a Burmilla (in GCCF these fall under the Asian Smoke-category),[1] and in some registries is only allowed to be registered for breeding, not showing.

The Burmilla is an irreverent and independent cat who adores its owner and displays many kitten-like characteristics, even into adulthood.