Cat Breed Comparison
Bengal vs Burmese
A full side-by-side comparison of lifespan, size, exercise needs, grooming, temperament, and more to help you choose the right cat.
At a Glance
| Trait | Bengal | Burmese |
|---|---|---|
| Lifespan | 12–16 yrs | 16–18 yrs |
| Weight | 3.5–7 kg | 3.5–5.5 kg |
| Exercise / day | 60 min | 30 min |
| Grooming | Low | Low |
| Calories / day | 200–350 kcal | 200–300 kcal |
| Origin | USA (hybrid: Asian Leopard Cat × domestic) | Myanmar (Burma) |
Breed Descriptions
Bengal
Bengals are wild-looking domestic cats with a spotted or marbled coat resembling a leopard. They are high-energy, intelligent, and curious cats that need lots of enrichment.
Burmese
Burmese cats are silky, compact, and irresistibly sociable. Often described as 'dog-like,' they follow their owners everywhere, demand attention, and maintain a playful, kitten-like energy well into their senior years.
Temperament
Bengal
- Active
- Playful
- Curious
- Vocal
- Confident
Burmese
- Curious
- Playful
- Affectionate
- Social
- Vocal
Key Differences
-
Exercise energy
The Bengal is the higher-energy breed, needing 60 min/day vs 30 min/day for the Burmese.
-
Lifespan
Burmese typically lives longer (16–18 yrs) versus the Bengal (12–16 yrs).
Which Is Right for You?
Choose the Bengal if…
- ✓ You enjoy an active lifestyle with daily exercise
- ✓ You want minimal grooming and low shedding
- ✓ You want a larger, more substantial companion
- ✓ You value: Active, Playful, Curious
Choose the Burmese if…
- ✓ You prefer a calmer, lower-energy companion
- ✓ You want minimal grooming and low shedding
- ✓ You prefer a smaller, more compact size
- ✓ You value: Curious, Playful, Affectionate
Cat Age Calculator
Convert your Bengal or Burmese's age into human years.
Enter an approximate date if you're unsure.