The Exotic Shorthair is the perfect blend of cuteness and convenience – a breed adored for its teddy bear-like looks and laid-back charm. Often dubbed the “lazy person’s Persian,” this cat boasts all the charm of its long-haired cousin but with a much easier-to-maintain coat. With a sweet, affectionate nature, this breed is ideal for those seeking a companion that loves both playtime and curling up on the sofa.
If you’re after a cat with an adorable round face, big, expressive eyes, and a gentle temperament, the Exotic Shorthair might just be your purr-fect match!
The Exotic Shorthair originated in the 1950s and 1960s in the United States, when breeders set out to create a silver American Shorthair with green eyes. The experiment didn’t quite go to plan – instead, they ended up with a cat that had the Persian’s signature round face but a short, dense coat.
Recognising their appeal, breeders continued to refine the Exotic Shorthair, and in 1967, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) officially recognised the breed. Today, these adorable felines are loved worldwide for their plush coats and affectionate personalities.
Key Points:
The Exotic Shorthair is the perfect mix of playfulness and relaxation. These cats are incredibly affectionate and love to be around their humans. Expect them to follow you from room to room, always looking for a chance to snuggle or play.
They are curious but not overly demanding, making them an excellent choice for both singles and families. And while they can be vocal, their soft, melodious meows are much gentler than some other breeds.
Exotic Shorthairs are medium-sized cats with a sturdy and compact body. Males typically weigh between 3.6 to 5.4 kg (8 to 12 lbs), while females weigh between 2.7 to 4.5 kg (6 to 10 lbs).
Their most distinctive feature is their short, plush coat, which stands away from the body and gives them a teddy bear-like appearance. Exotic Shorthairs come in a variety of colours and patterns, similar to those found in Persians.
Their round faces, large, expressive eyes, and small, rounded ears add to their endearing charm. Overall, their physical characteristics combine to create a captivating appearance that sets them apart from other breeds.
Medium size
Sturdy and compact body
Short, plush coat that stands away from the body
Round face and large, expressive eyes
Small, rounded ears
While generally healthy, Exotic Shorthairs may be prone to certain genetic conditions, which are shared with the Persian breed.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD), a condition that causes cysts to form in the kidneys, has been reported in some Exotic Shorthair lines, so regular veterinary check-ups, including kidney screenings, are essential.
They can also be susceptible to brachycephalic airway syndrome, which can cause breathing difficulties due to their flattened faces.
Responsible breeders screen their cats for these potential health issues to minimise the risk of passing them on to future generations. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet and regular exercise can further help mitigate these risks.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD)
Brachycephalic airway syndrome (breathing difficulties)
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential
Exotic Shorthairs make excellent family pets due to their gentle nature and adaptability. They are well-suited to households with children, as they are patient and tolerant, enjoying gentle play and affection.
They also tend to get along well with other pets, including dogs and other cats, especially when introduced at a young age.
Their moderate energy levels and quiet demeanor make them adaptable to various living situations, whether it’s a bustling family home or a quieter apartment.
Exotic Shorthairs thrive in environments where they receive plenty of attention and love, forming strong bonds with their human companions and becoming cherished members of the family.
Excellent family pets
Patient and tolerant with children
Good with other pets
Adaptable to various living situations
They enjoy attention
Exotic Shorthairs are best suited as indoor cats due to several factors. Their flattened faces can make them sensitive to extreme temperatures, and their long fur can easily become matted or dirty if they roam outdoors. As indoor cats, they are protected from outdoor dangers such as traffic, predators, and infectious diseases. By keeping them indoors, owners can ensure their safety and monitor their health more closely. For cats that enjoy the outdoors, supervised access to a secure garden or a catio can provide a safe and enriching experience.
Best suited for indoor living
Sensitive to extreme temperatures
Long fur can easily become matted or dirty
Protected from outdoor dangers
Supervised outdoor access is an option
Although their coats are short, Exotic Shorthairs still require regular grooming to prevent matting and reduce shedding.
A balanced diet is crucial for Exotic Shorthairs to maintain their health and well-being. High-quality cat food, whether wet or dry, should be the foundation of their diet, providing essential nutrients and vitamins. Portion control is important to prevent obesity, as Exotic Shorthairs can be prone to weight gain if overfed. Fresh water should always be available to ensure adequate hydration. Occasional treats can be given in moderation, but should not make up a significant portion of their diet. It’s also essential to choose cat food appropriate for their age and activity level, as kittens, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs. Due to their flat faces, elevated bowls are usually better suited for Exotic Shorthairs.
High-quality cat food (wet or dry)
Portion control to prevent obesity
Fresh water always available
Occasional treats in moderation
Choose food appropriate for age and activity level
Elevated food bowls recommended
Exotic Shorthairs are often referred to as “lazy person’s Persians” due to their similar appearance but easier-to-manage coat.
They were created in an attempt to develop a silver American Shorthair with green eyes.
Exotic Shorthairs come in a variety of colours and patterns, just like Persians.
They have a sweet and gentle temperament, making them wonderful companions for people of all ages.
Exotic Shorthairs are known for their round faces, large eyes, and plush, dense coats, giving them a teddy bear-like appearance.
Yes, Exotic Shorthairs are generally good with children. They are patient, tolerant, and enjoy gentle play.
Exotic Shorthairs have moderate shedding tendencies due to their plush coats. Regular brushing can help minimise shedding.
Exotic Shorthairs are known for being relatively quiet cats.
With proper care, Exotic Shorthairs typically live between 12 to 15 years.
Exotic Shorthairs require regular brushing (a few times a week) to prevent matting.
Persian: Long-haired version of the same body
British Shorthair: Short and round face
Scottish Fold: Some traits are shared
American Shorthair: Contributed to the formation of the breed
Ragdoll: Easy going personality, good family cat
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
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