Asian

The Asian is a domestic cat breed group developed in Britain from Burmese-related lines, with Chinchilla Persian influence behind the Burmilla branch. Despite the name, it is not a regional landrace from Asia. Asians have a Burmese-like, medium muscular body, rounded wedge head, expressive eyes, and a close, glossy coat in many colors and patterns. In some registries the term covers related varieties such as Asian Self, Asian Smoke, Asian Tabby, Burmilla, and the semi-longhaired Tiffanie, so the exact appearance can vary more than the simple name suggests.

These cats are usually kept as interactive household companions, and many have the sociable, curious temperament associated with Burmese ancestry. They do best with daily play, perches, puzzle feeding, and people who enjoy a cat that may follow conversations around the house. Shorthaired Asians need only light grooming, while Tiffanie-coated cats require more regular combing. Buyers should ask which variety is being offered and what registry standard the breeder follows. Sensible breeding programs keep clear pedigrees and use health tests relevant to their lines, including Burmese-derived conditions where appropriate.