Cat Breed Guide NZ
Tiffany
The Tiffany is the NZCF-recognised longhaired form of the Burmese: Burmese type and colours, with a long, fine, silky coat, a neck ruff and a plumed tail.
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Breed Snapshot
- Size
- medium
- Lifespan
- 12-16 years
- Origin
- Derived from Burmese / Mandalay lines (NZCF-recognised)
- Temperament
- Affectionate, gentle, quiet; good with children; adaptable to apartment life
- NZ Price
- NZD $800–$1,800 from NZCF-registered Tiffany/Burmese breeders
Personality Scores
Overview
In New Zealand the Tiffany is the longhaired Burmese. The NZCF Standard of Points says it is derived from the Burmese or Mandalay, must match those breeds in every respect except coat length, and is fully intermateable with them. Eyes are yellow to amber. It should not be confused with the American Chantilly-Tiffany, or with the green-eyed Asian Semi-longhair that UK registries call the "Tiffanie".
NZ ownership fit
With Burmese type comes a Burmese-style personality: Tiffanys are generally sociable, people-focused cats that like company, so they suit households where someone is around for much of the day rather than homes that are empty from morning to evening.
Care priorities
The coat is long, fine and silky with no downy undercoat, so it is easier to keep tangle-free than many longhairs; a comb-through once or twice a week is usually enough. Ask breeders about hypokalaemia DNA testing of both parents, keep up annual vet checks and dental care, and consider an indoor-plus-enclosure setup to keep them safe.
Related Breeds
American Shorthair
A versatile, sturdy, and easy-going companion. American Shorthairs are quiet, gentle cats that adapt well to various Kiwi living situations and are known for their longevity.
Scottish Longhair
The Scottish Longhair is the straight-eared, longhaired member of the Scottish breed family, with a round face, sweet expression and a full, semi-long coat.
Sphynx
The Sphynx is a hairless, social, indoor cat that needs warmth, skin care, sun protection, ear care, and careful health screening. In New Zealand it is a specialist choice, not a low-maintenance novelty pet.
Malayan
The non-sable version of the Burmese, sharing the same muscular build and affectionate personality. They are social, people-oriented cats often described as 'bricks wrapped in silk'.
Cashmere (Longhaired Bengal)
The Cashmere is the rare, long-haired version of the Bengal cat, displaying the same striking wild-leopard patterns but with a silky, ultra-soft coat resembling cashmere wool.
Russian Blue
The Russian Blue is a quiet, elegant, silver-blue cat that often bonds closely with familiar people and prefers predictable routines. It can suit New Zealand apartments well when owners provide gentle enrichment, hiding spaces, and stress-aware care.