Burmese vs Snowshoe

Which cat breed is right for you?

Burmese

Size
6–14 lbs
Lifespan
10–17 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Playful Affectionate Vocal

Snowshoe

Size
7–12 lbs
Lifespan
14–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Social Affectionate Vocal Intelligent

About the Burmese

The Burmese traces its Western lineage to a single cat named Wong Mau, brought from Burma (Myanmar) to San Francisco in 1930 by Dr. Joseph C. Thompson. This compact, muscular breed weighs 6–14 pounds and is surprisingly heavy for its size — often described as a "brick wrapped in silk." Their short, satiny coat comes in sable, champagne, blue, and platinum, with an exceptionally fine texture that lies close to the body.

Temperament & Personality

Burmese cats are social, energetic, and deeply people-oriented — they want to be involved in everything their family does. They are excellent with children and other pets, often initiating play and maintaining their kitten-like exuberance well into old age. Their trusting, outgoing nature means they should be kept indoors, as they lack the wariness of strangers that keeps other cats safe outdoors.

Pros

  • Extremely affectionate — thrives on physical contact and lap time
  • Maintains playful, kitten-like energy throughout adulthood
  • Minimal grooming needed — satiny coat rarely sheds or mats
  • Highly social and does well in multi-cat households

Cons

  • Prone to diabetes mellitus at higher rates than most breeds
  • Susceptible to craniofacial defects and hypokalemic polymyopathy
  • Too trusting — not streetwise enough for outdoor access
  • Demanding of attention — can develop behavioral issues if left alone regularly

Experience the warmth and devotion of a Burmese — find cats ready for adoption on Puplister.

About the Snowshoe

The Snowshoe was developed in the 1960s in Philadelphia by crossing Siamese cats with American Shorthairs, creating a pointed cat with distinctive white "boots" on all four paws. This medium-sized breed weighs 7–12 pounds and combines the Siamese's colorpoint pattern with a more robust, moderately stocky build. Their short, smooth coat comes in seal point and blue point, always featuring white paws, an inverted white "V" on the face, and striking blue eyes.

Temperament & Personality

Snowshoes are vocal, social cats that inherit the Siamese's love of conversation but with a softer, more melodic voice. They are playful and intelligent, often learning to open doors and turn on faucets — many Snowshoes are fascinated by running water. They bond closely with their families and can become distressed if left alone for long periods.

Pros

  • Striking, unique appearance — the white boots and facial markings are hard to resist
  • Vocal but softer-voiced than the Siamese — communicative without being overwhelming
  • Intelligent and playful — enjoys puzzle toys, fetch, and learning tricks
  • Affectionate and loyal — bonds deeply with family members

Cons

  • Prone to separation anxiety — needs companionship throughout the day
  • Markings are unpredictable — "show-quality" pattern is notoriously difficult to breed consistently
  • Can be sensitive and moody — may sulk if they feel ignored
  • Inherited health concerns from Siamese lines, including dental and heart issues

Love the Siamese look with a twist? Browse Snowshoe cats seeking their perfect families on Puplister today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Burmese and a Snowshoe?
The Burmese is 6–14 lbs sized while the Snowshoe is 7–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–14 lbs vs 7–12 lbs), lifespan (10–17 years vs 14–20 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Burmese or Snowshoe?
Burmese is generally good with kids. Snowshoe is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Burmese or Snowshoe?
The Burmese has a lifespan of 10–17 years while the Snowshoe has a lifespan of 14–20 years.

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