Burmese vs Turkish Angora

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

Turkish Angora

Size
5–10 lbs
Lifespan
12–18 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Playful Intelligent Social Graceful

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 Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora is an ancient, naturally occurring breed from central Turkey — specifically the Ankara region — and is one of the oldest known longhaired cat breeds. This small-to-medium cat weighs 5–10 pounds and possesses a graceful, balletic build with a long, plumed tail, silky single-layer coat (no undercoat), and large, walnut-shaped eyes. While white is the most iconic color — often with striking odd eyes (one blue, one amber) — Turkish Angoras come in nearly every color and pattern except pointed.

Temperament & Personality

Turkish Angoras are spirited, intelligent cats that love to be at the center of the action. They are natural athletes — leaping to the highest shelf, opening doors, and inventing games to entertain themselves. Affectionate and strong-willed, they will happily greet guests and supervise every household activity, often choosing one family member as their primary favorite.

Pros

  • Elegant, silky coat has no undercoat — sheds less and rarely mats
  • Highly intelligent and entertaining — always inventing new games and tricks
  • Social and welcoming with guests and family alike
  • Naturally healthy breed with excellent longevity — many live 15–20 years

Cons

  • White cats with blue eyes have a high incidence of congenital deafness
  • Strong-willed and mischievous — can be stubborn about rules
  • Demands attention and may become disruptive if ignored
  • Prone to ataxia (a hereditary neurological condition) in some lines

Entranced by this ancient Turkish treasure? Find Turkish Angora cats looking for loving homes on Puplister and add a touch of grace to your life.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Burmese and a Turkish Angora?
The Burmese is 6–14 lbs sized while the Turkish Angora is 5–10 lbs sized. They differ in size (6–14 lbs vs 5–10 lbs), lifespan (10–17 years vs 12–18 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Burmese or Turkish Angora?
Burmese is generally good with kids. Turkish Angora is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Burmese or Turkish Angora?
The Burmese has a lifespan of 10–17 years while the Turkish Angora has a lifespan of 12–18 years.

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