Introduction
Siamese and Burmese cats have long been considered two of the most exotic and mysterious cat breeds in the world. Both are gentle and intelligent, and both share a common ancestor – the South and Southeast Asia native cat. The Siamese and Burmese have also been historically revered and adored as sacred animals. But while they are similar in many ways, they also have their own distinct personalities, behaviors, and physical traits. The war of the golden lands is an ongoing battle between Siamese and Burmese cats for which breed is truly superior.
This article will discuss the unique characteristics and behaviors of both the Siamese and Burmese breeds, as well as examine the impact each breed has had on popular culture. We will then compare and contrast the two and take a look at why the war between the two golden lands is all but inevitable.
Siamese
Siamese cats hails from the region now known as Thailand, which was once known as Siam. Their name comes from their Thai roots, and they are thought to have been present in the region since the 14th century. They are considered the oldest recognized breed of cat in the West, and owe their popularity to their even temperaments and stunning looks.
Siamese cats are medium-sized animals, capable of reaching up to 12 pounds in weight. They are instantly recognizable for their signature dark brown ‘eyeliner’ and white bodies. However, more rare, ‘pointed’ varieties of Siamese cats also exist, which feature different colored tails, ears, and muzzles, giving them a more exotic look. Siamese cats have become very popular in recent years, due to their friendship and loyalty to their owners, as well as their natural playfulness and intelligence.
Burmese
The Burmese breed began in Burma (now known as Myanmar), and has a slightly less complex history. The breed only started becoming popular in the West in the 1930s, when American sailors imported the first Burmese cats to the United States. Since then, the breed has increased in popularity due to its subdued, friendly nature and sleek, exotic look.
Burmese cats are slightly larger than Siamese cats, and can often reach up to 15 pounds. Unlike the Siamese, the Burmese is primarily recognized for its unique ‘hood-shaped’ head and deep, glossy coat. They are also known for their kindness and loyalty to owners, as well as their intelligence and alertness.
Appearance and Temperament
The Siamese and Burmese cats both have their own unique physical traits and temperaments. The Siamese cats are well known for their exotic dark ‘eyeliner’, whereas the Burmese cat has a ‘hood-shaped’ head. The Siamese cat is also known for its lively, active nature, whereas the Burmese is known for its gentler, quieter disposition.
The differences in appearance and temperament are reflected in the way they interact with people. The Siamese is constantly in search of new adventures and loves spending time with people, while the Burmese prefers to be left to its own devices and likes to take its time before interacting with others.
Impact on Popular Culture
The Siamese and Burmese cats have both had a great impact on popular culture. The Siamese breed has been referenced in numerous books, films, and television shows, from the classic Disney film Lady and the Tramp to the more contemporary TV series, Gossip Girl. The breed has also been immortalized in art, from the famous 19th-century painting of a Siamese cat by French painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir to the modern sculpture of a Siamese cat by American artist Jeff Koons.
The Burmese breed has a similarly celebrated history in popular culture. Its regal look and relaxed temperament has made it a popular choice for the film industry, with notable roles in the James Bond film, The Living Daylights and more recently, Guardians of the Galaxy.
Conclusion
The war of the golden lands is an ongoing battle between Siamese and Burmese cats for which breed is truly superior. Despite their shared ancestry, the two breeds have unique traits, behaviors, and even health issues that separate them into distinct groups. Although both breeds have had a profound influence on Western culture and often displayed similar personality traits, there are instances in which one breed may outshine the other. However, both breeds have what it takes to be a beloved family pet, and any cat owner can attest to their loyalty, intelligence, and agreeability.