The Burmese cat originated in the Far East. From there the first Burmese cat was introduced to the West in 1930. The cat’s name was Wong Mau. This cat is the ancestor to both the Burmese and European Burmese cat. The cat was bred with the Siamese cat which began the breed. Through time, the European Burmese and Burmese became very distinct. The European Burmese is an elegantly built cat with slightly rounded eyes that have a top line, slight curve and slant towards the nose. The Burmese has small and compact features with primarily rounded eyes. The Cat Fanciers Association recognized the Burmese in 1936 but suspended the breed in 1947 because breeders were still breeding with the Siamese. Registering resumed in 1953. IN the UK the Siamese was bred to the British Shorthair which created the Foreign or European Burmese that we know of today. Call your pet clinic Westminster, MD to learn more.