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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

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Personality Scores

Friendliness4/5
Trainability3/5
Energy3/5
Grooming2/5
Health Risk2/5
Apartment5/5
With Kids5/5
With Pets4/5

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

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NZ Specific Tips

New Zealand Care Notes

These local notes translate general breed guidance into climate, housing, and routine realities for New Zealand households.

Local Care

NZ Care Note 1

In New Zealand, "Tiffany" means the NZCF longhaired Burmese — not the American Chantilly-Tiffany, and not the green-eyed Asian Semi-longhair sometimes called "Tiffanie" in the UK. Ask the breeder which standard their cats are registered under.

Routine

NZ Care Note 2

Registered kittens typically cost between $800 and $1,800 NZD in New Zealand. Look for NZCF-registered breeders, and ask to see hypokalaemia DNA test results for both parents.

Routine

NZ Care Note 3

The long, silky coat has no downy undercoat, so it tangles less than many longhairs — a comb-through once or twice a week is usually enough, with extra attention during the spring moult.

Care Guides

Related Care Guides

Useful reading for NZ owners of this species.

Tools

Helpful Tools

Free interactive tools for NZ owners.

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Important Note

Information on PetMall is for education only and does not replace an in-person assessment by a veterinarian. If your pet is unwell, in pain, rapidly deteriorating, or you are unsure whether something is urgent, contact your local veterinary clinic promptly.