American Shorthair vs Burmese Cat: Key Differences Explained

The American Shorthair originates in North America and is a favorite among many people. In contrast, the Burmese cat comes from Southeast Asia but is also very popular in many countries. These two cats have some vast and some small differences. We will look at lifespan, intelligence level, appearance, and temperament, among other things. Looking at the American Shorthair vs. Burmese, both can become beloved family pets. They are both child-friendly cats. However, a Burmese is more comfortable around strangers than the American shorthair, who is more wary.

Burmese Cat Appearance

These domestic cats are small to midsized and weigh 6 to 12 pounds on average. Usually, males weigh more than females and can weigh up to 12 pounds, while females can weigh between 6 to 10 pounds.

Burmese Cat Colors

Burmese cats come in a variety of colors and color combinations. They can contain any of the following colors:

• Lilac
• Fawn
• Blue
• Platinum
• Cinnamon
• Cream
• Sable
• Red
• Champagne
• Chocolate
• Tortoiseshell

They can also have solid colors or tortoiseshells. Burmese cats can have solid colors evenly separated all over their bodies. Also, they have wide ears, a broad head, and an average body. Overall they are handsome felines.

American Shorthair Appearance

This cat has a thick, short, and dense coat and comes in various colors, shades, and patterns. Their eyes can be copper, hazel, green, gold, or blue. Some even have mixed color eyes. They are medium-sized cats, females can weigh between 8 to 12 pounds, and males can weigh over 12 pounds. Also, they have broad chests and strong jaws with a round face and rounded ear tips.

American Shorthair Colors

These cats can be found in the following colors:

• Blue
• Black
• White
• Tortoiseshell
• Silver
• Brown
• Golden
• Came
• Cream
• Chinchilla
• Red
• Blue Cream

Their patterns include bicolor, solid color, shaded, tabby, tricolor, or tortoiseshell.

Hypoallergenic: Burmese Cat Vs. American Shorthair

When looking at Burmese vs. American Shorthair cats, both are not hypoallergenic, but they do have different coats and ways to look after them.

Are Burmese Cats Hypoallergenic?

Burmese cats are not hypoallergenic. Many people are under the illusion that short-haired cats like the Burmese are hypoallergenic, but no cat is hypoallergenic. Even a “hairless” cat like the Sphynx is not hypoallergenic. Furthermore, whether they have hair or not, every cat sheds dead skin cells that usually have cat saliva on them, which is what most humans are allergic to.

Do Burmese Cats Shed?

Burmese cats do shed, but they do not shed a lot because they have short hair. However, their coat is not the source of allergies. When they clean themselves by licking, a residue is released into the air and settles on furniture and clothes, which is what causes most allergies. Lastly, because these cats do not shed much, they do not require much grooming. 

Are American Shorthair Cats Hypoallergenic?

As previously mentioned, there are no hypoallergenic cats, and if you tend to have allergies around cats, then the American Shorthair will affect your allergies.

Do American Shorthair Cats Shed?

These cats do shed moderately. They have short hair, but it is dense, and they will shed throughout the year. Also, they will need some grooming if you do not want hair all over your furniture or clothes.

Maintaining a Burmese Cat’s Fur Coat

When looking at Burmese vs. American Shorthair cats, the Burmese has a soft, short coat that doesn’t need too much grooming. All that is required is a brush once a week to remove dead skin. Also, they seldom need to be bathed but would require regular trimming of their nails and cleaning of their ears.

Maintaining an American Shorthair’s Fur Coat

The American Shorthair has relatively dense fur. But it is easy to maintain. A brush once or twice a week to remove loose fur will suffice. Additionally, these cats do not need to be bathed too often, but getting them used to a bath early on is recommended.

Burmese Personality Vs. American Shorthair Cat Personality

Both of these cats have strong yet different personalities, which we will explore further.

Burmese Personality

Burmese cats love people and socializing, especially when they are younger. As kittens or young adults, they will play with their owners. However, when they get older, they tend to become introverted. Also, they can be trained to do tricks as they are very intelligent.

People sometimes compare them to dogs because they need to be around people all the time. In addition, they are quite vocal and will let their owners know what they want. They are great with other Burmese cats, children, and dogs. However, they may not get along with other cat breeds. In addition, these cats love getting affection and attention from their owners. Therefore, owners must be prepared to give lots of cuddles and snuggles. Lastly, Burmese cats are fearless and very trusting, and they need to have a home where they feel safe.  

Burmese Left Alone

As Burmese cats love affection and cuddles, they are unhappy when left alone for long periods. If you must leave them alone, it would be advisable to get them a feline friend like another Burmese or a Domestic shorthair.

American Shorthair Personality

These cats are easygoing and get on with most people. Also, they do not require too much attention. However, they do enjoy a cuddle and some love. Lastly, American Shorthairs are not too loud, won’t meow too much, and are easily amused. 

American Shorthair Left Alone

This cat is fine with being left alone. Therefore, they are ideal for single people or owners who work a full day. They are also fine with meeting new people and will probably get on with new family members.

American Shorthair vs. Burmese Lifespan

There are a few differences if you look at the Burmese vs. American Shorthair cat’s lifespans.

Burmese Cat Lifespan

The Burmese cat’s lifespan is normally between 10 to 17 years. However, these cats need good nutrition and proper care if you want to enhance their lifespan.

American Shorthair Lifespan

These cats have a lifespan of between 15 to 20 years. Also, American Shorthairs are generally healthy and do not require too much attention to give them a long life. 

Burmese Health Issues vs. American Shorthair Health Issues

These two cats have different health problems that should be monitored. 

Burmese Health Problems

Burmese cats may be faced with the following health issues:

• Hypokalemia: a genetic disease that can cause skeletal muscle weakness.
• Feline Orofacial Pain Syndrome (FOPS): as kittens, some Burmese cats may suffer when their second set of teeth come out. This causes pain, and the cats scratch at their faces to alleviate the pain.
• Diabetes Mellitus: Burmese in Australia and Europe are more at risk of getting this disease.

American Shorthair Health Issues

These cats are generally healthy. However, they are susceptible to being obese if fed too much. Also, owners should watch out for the following:

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): a heredity heart disease found in felines.
• Hip Dysplasia: a condition which may result in the cats becoming less mobile and losing weight.

Burmese Cat Sounds vs. American Shorthair Sounds

Burmese Cat Sounds

These cats are known to be quite talkative. However, they have “soft” voices. You will, however, know when a Burmese cat wants something, as they will be vocal about it.

American Shorthair Sounds

The American Shorthair is less vocal than other cats. However, that does not mean that they do not meow. They just don’t do it very often. Therefore, they would make the perfect companion for someone who values peace and quiet.

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