The Pet Sitter
Cat Breed

British Shorthair

calm • easygoing • loyal • independent

OriginUnited Kingdom
Lifespan12-20 years
Weight4-8 kg
Energy Levellow

Quick Stats

Sizemedium
Weight4-8 kg
Lifespan12-20 years
Energy Levellow
Groominglow
Trainabilitymoderate
OriginUnited Kingdom
Temperament
calmeasygoingloyalindependent

Overview

The British Shorthair is one of the oldest and most beloved cat breeds, known for its round face, dense plush coat, and calm demeanour. These sturdy, medium-to-large cats are famously easygoing and make wonderful companions for families and individuals alike.

Compatibility

Children
Excellent
Other Dogs
Good
Cats
Good
Apartment Living
Excellent

Care Guide

British Shorthairs are relatively low-maintenance cats that thrive on routine. Provide a balanced diet and monitor weight carefully, as they can be prone to obesity. Regular play sessions help keep them active and mentally stimulated.

Exercise Needs

Moderate daily play sessions are sufficient. British Shorthairs enjoy interactive toys but are not overly demanding of exercise.

Grooming

Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their dense coat in good condition. During shedding season, increase to twice weekly.

Health Concerns

hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
obesity
polycystic kidney disease
dental disease

Fun Facts

🐱The Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland is believed to be inspired by the British Shorthair.
🐱They are one of the oldest identifiable cat breeds in the world.
🐱British Shorthairs come in over 100 colour combinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are British Shorthairs good indoor cats?
Yes, they adapt very well to indoor living and are perfectly content as indoor-only cats, making them ideal for apartments.
Do British Shorthairs like to be held?
They generally prefer to sit beside you rather than on your lap. They are affectionate but on their own terms.
How long do British Shorthairs live?
With proper care, British Shorthairs typically live 12-20 years, making them one of the longer-lived breeds.
Are British Shorthairs hypoallergenic?
No, they are not hypoallergenic. Their dense double coat sheds moderately and produces typical levels of allergens.

Similar Breeds

🐱

Exotic Shorthair

medium • low energy

🐱

Chartreux

medium • moderate energy

🐱

Russian Blue

medium • moderate energy

🐱

American Shorthair

medium • moderate energy

🐱

Scottish Fold

medium • moderate energy

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