Birman cats are generally indoor cats, and if they were temple cats, then this explains why they adapt so well to this type of lifestyle. On the other hand they just aren't particulary street-wise. Boris sometimes forgets that we have a little table when he leaps off the sofa. Ouch. He is also living proof that cats don't always land on their feet. Bellis is much more coordinated.  Both cats enjoy going outside under supervision, but we choose not to trust them on their own.

When we first went to look at our Boris it was impossible not to fall in love with him. The way he flopped on his back and said tickle my tummy sold us completely. (He still waits by the door when we come home to do the same thing). Birmans cost more than domestic cats but cannot be valued in monetary terms.   

 Cats should be vaccinated every year. Disease can be brought home if you have contact with other cats, and can be contracted with visits to the vet, cattery or at cat shows. A cat without enough antibody to resist infection can become very sick.

 Feline leukaemia virus is only contracted with direct contact with infected cats. As such it is not necessary to vaccinate the indoor cat against leukaemia. 

 Birmans, as with all other breeds, are predisposed to some illnesses, you can read about them here:

and information on feline infectious peritonitis here:

Some birmans may need combing, but the majority will not form the knots that are common in other long hair breeds. That said, birmans are proud of their appearance and will generally come running if shown a comb. Bellis has an exceptional silky coat (even for a birman), that never knots.

Indoor cats need activating, and without this they can become frustrated and stressed.

One of the best ways to keep a birman cat activated (besides having an aquarium) is to have another birman!

 Most cat races will only tolerate an extra cat in the household, and multi-cat households tend to be stressful for many moggys, but birmans simply need the company of other cats and are incredibly cute together. - however don't overdo it in a cramped flat, and extra cats requires extra resources to supply their basic needs.

  

An excellent site which should be browsed by all indoor cat owners is

Lifestyle stressors of the indoor cat can contribute to idiopathic cystitis. A horrible long term disease of the bladder. 

Urinary tract health can be promoted by environmental enrichment, a water fountain and the use of quality wet foods, and diets that are designed to help prevent struvite and oxalate crystals. Boris and Bellis eat a combination of Specific and Royal Canin foods. 

Dental problems in cats can cause long term health issues, including predisposing the cat to kidney failure. Prevention is by additives to the drinking water such as Vet Aquadent, brushing with cat toothpaste, the use of Buccacat or special diets such as t/d and cleaning under anaesthetic. Regulary inspection of the mouth will  be undertaken by your veterinarian at the time of vaccination.

Cats are a big responsibilty and provision should be made for when they need to receive veterinary treatment. Pet insurance can help to ensure that you will always be able to afford unexpected health expenses.

Smoking in the presence of long-haired cats is particularly dangerous, as they spend so much time grooming themselves. This multiplys their exposure to the carcinogenic toxins of cigarette smoke to dangerous levels.

Make sure you have safety locks on all windows. Many, many cats in Copenhagen fall out of fourth floor windows every year. Prevention is always better than dead.

And finally... 

If you can't find a friend to look after them when you are on holiday, then find a boarding cattery where your cat has plenty of space and is not mixed with others. Mixing with others could be a similar experience to being released into a prison yard for the first time.

 Lots of scary strangers that might assault you.

 Birmans are also predisposed to developing Feline Infectious Peritonitis, a fatal disease caused by an infectious virus that is innocuous to most other cats. Mixing with strangers is just not recommended.