The Exotic Shorthair cat is one of the most family-friendly, laid-back cat breeds you can find. People worldwide seek out the Exotic Shorthair due to this cat’s superb personality and adorable features.
You might see an Exotic Shorthair cat and wonder if you’re looking at a shaved Persian, but that’s not the case. Though very similar in appearance and demeanor to the Persian cat, the Exotic Shorthair has a more easily maintained coat and a very people-oriented personality.
The Exotic Shorthair is a loyal and dedicated breed and is well-loved. If you are looking to add a relaxed and adaptable cat to your life, put this cutie on your wish list.
| Exotic Shorthair cat | ...at a glance |
|---|---|
| Personality | Sweet, loyal, affectionate |
| Life expectancy | 10-15 years |
| Weight | 6-13 lbs |
| Coat & colors | Short, dense; various colors & patterns |
| Energy level | Low |
| Affection level | High |
| Friendliness | High |
| Shedding level | Low to Medium |
| Required grooming | Medium |
Overview of an Exotic Shorthair cat
The Exotic Shorthair cat is a medium-sized cat that deeply resembles the Persian. These cats are heavily boned with thick and dense fur, large round heads, and large round eyes.
Weight
Male Exotic Shorthair cats will weigh anywhere from 8 to 13 pounds, and females between 6 and 12 pounds.
The Exotic Shorthair cat is somewhat lazy. If they don’t get enough regular exercise, they can become overweight. Be sure to watch their weight and prevent obesity with a healthy diet and plenty of fun exercise. Bring out that laser pointer!
Length
The Exotic Shorthair is not regarded as a very long cat, despite being heavily boned. From the tips of their snubbed nose to the end of their tails, they will be between 12 and 18 inches long.
They have a rather short tail that is shorter than their body length but still proportionate. Their short legs keep them a bit lower to the ground than other cats.
Coat
The coat of an Exotic Shorthair is what distinguishes them from the Persian cat. Unlike the Persian, who has long and fine hair, the Exotic Shorthair has a thick, short, dense coat. Their plush coats include a thick undercoat that protects them from the elements.
Lifespan
If you are looking for a companion for the long haul, the Exotic Shorthair is the cat to adopt. They are a relatively healthy breed. When properly cared for, they can live for up to 15 years! So, you better be willing to live with your furry best friend for a fifth of your life.
History of the Exotic Shorthair cat
The Exotic Shorthair is not an ancient breed with a shrouded history. They are a newer breed that developed from a breeder's desire to have a cat with the looks and temperament of a Persian cat, without the high-maintenance coat.
In the 1950s and 1960s, they were bred in the United States by mixing Persian cats with American Shorthairs. This resulted in adorable kittens with very round faces and bodies, a short, snubbed nose, and large round eyes.
The kittens that looked more like Persians were then bred back to Persian cats to help enhance their Persian features. What resulted from this was a kitten with a short face, short stubby legs, and short fur that is dense when you run your fingers through it.
The Cat Fanciers Association accepted the breed but ruled that the Exotic Shorthair needed to be bred with either another Exotic Shorthair or Persian cat. At first, they bred Exotic Shorthair kittens with Russian Blues and Burmese cats, but this did not result in the features the cat community wanted.
Characteristics
The Exotic Shorthair is a short-haired breed best known for their stubby, flat noses and large round eyes. Their features are squashed, and might look a bit crowded on their face. Their nose, eyes, and mouth are all set in the center of their face.
Their coat is very plush and dense. It will vary from the next Exotic Shorthair because any color or pattern is accepted by the breed standards.
Tabby? Yep. Bicolor. Uh-huh. Lilac? Sure. You get the idea.
Their large round eyes stand out as the most prominent feature on their face. Typically their eyes will be gold or copper, but they can also be blue or green. You probably won’t be able to guess what your Exotic Shorthair will look like before adopting them!
Personality traits
The Exotic Shorthair is one of the best cats to love. Period. They’re basically a bundle of love wrapped in a ball of fur with a few distinct personality traits.
- Sweetness personified: The Exotic Shorthair is renowned for its gentle and affectionate nature. They have a quiet disposition that makes them perfect companions for peaceful households.
- Loyal to the core: This breed is known for its loyalty. Once an Exotic Shorthair forms a bond with you, it's for life.
- Sun-seekers: These cats have a penchant for a good sunbathing nap. They revel in the warmth and would often be found basking in sunny spots around the house.
- Relaxed yet active: Although they enjoy their lazy moments, Exotic Shorthairs are not averse to play and activity. They might not want to play all day, but they surely enjoy bouts of fun throughout the day.
- Adaptable: Exotic Shorthairs are highly adaptable, making them great choices for first-time pet parents. They adjust to new environments easily and don't fret much about changes in their routine or surroundings.
- Love attention: These cats enjoy attention and affection from their human companions. A simple pat on the head or a gentle stroke can make their day.
The combination of these traits makes Exotic Shorthairs excellent pets. Their calm demeanor and adaptability make them suitable for both experienced and first-time cat parents. Their love for attention and playfulness adds a lively touch to any household. If you are looking for a loyal, affectionate, and adaptable feline friend, the Exotic Shorthair could be the perfect choice for you.
Caring for this cat breed
This new cat breed was meant to introduce a cat similar to the Persian, but easier to groom. Indeed, the Exotic Shorthair’s short coat is much easier to maintain than the Persian’s. It does not require daily brushing, though weekly brushing is encouraged.
In fact, the Exotic Shorthair is sometimes called “the lazy man’s Persian” because their coat only needs a gentle combing to remain tangle-free.
With their flat faces, the Exotic Shorthair is prone to more tearing of the eyes. You will need to wipe your Exotic’s face on a regular basis so there's no staining.
You should also pay attention to their ears for any sign of infection or wax build-up.
Your Exotic Shorthair will best take to a litter box that is clean and comfortable. We understand how difficult it can be to scoop the litter box at the recommended daily amount. With a self-cleaning litter box like Litter-Robot, you don’t have to worry about scooping or providing your Exotic with a clean bed of litter. Instead, Litter-Robot does the dirty work for you!
Possible health issues
The Exotic Shorthair is a relatively healthy breed, though their flat faces can lead to breathing problems. Brachycephalic Respiratory Syndrome is a common issue that can arise in Exotic Shorthairs.
This condition impacts your cat’s ability to breathe properly and is seen in animals that have flat or squished-in faces (brachycephalics). Airflow through their nostrils is often limited, so they have to breathe more frequently through their mouths.
Exotic Shorthairs can also develop polycystic kidney disease (PKD), resulting in enlarged kidneys that improperly function. DNA kits can test for PKD—if you are buying rather than adopting, it’s a good idea to consult with your breeder about this health problem.
Another health condition that Exotic Shorthairs can be prone to is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). This heart disease occurs when the heart muscle becomes abnormally thick, making it harder for the heart to pump blood.
Regular vet check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of these issues. It's important to remember that while these issues may sound daunting, they don't take away from the joy and companionship that Exotic Shorthairs bring into your life.
Key differences between shorthair breeds
While all Exotic Shorthair cats are unique in their own way, understanding the differences between various short-haired cat breeds can help you choose the perfect feline companion. Here is a breakdown of a few of the most popular shorthair breeds:
Oriental Shorthair Cats
This breed is of Thai origin and is known for their sleek, shorter coat, and large ears. Oriental Shorthairs have a slender, muscular body type and an angular face, which contrasts with the Exotic Shorthair's round features. They are highly active and curious, making them entertaining, albeit sometimes demanding, companions.
British Shorthair Cats
The British Shorthair is easily recognized by their dense coat and stocky build. Their round eyes are typically copper or gold. They are known for their calm demeanor and easygoing nature, making them great companions for families and individuals alike.
European Shorthair Cats
European Shorthairs are robust and muscular cats with a history tracing back to Rome. They have a short, thick coat and eyes that range from copper to green. European Shorthairs are known for their playful and active nature. They enjoy the company of their human companions but also value their independence.
American Shorthair Cats
Originally brought to North America by early settlers, American Shorthair cats are famous for their strikingly patterned coat colors and round faces. They are medium in size with strong, muscular bodies. American Shorthairs are known for their amicable and sociable nature, making them a favored choice for families.
Adopting an Exotic Shorthair cat
When you adopt an Exotic Shorthair cat, you get a friend for a very long time. They will be loyal companions that spend much of their time ready to cuddle on the couch. Otherwise they’ll probably be seeking out the best sunny spots in the house, from which they’ll thoughtfully observe you.
This lap cat will become an integral part of your family and will make connections with all of the important people in your life.
As long as you give your Exotic Shorthair a life of leisure, with affection and plenty of one-on-one time, you will find yourself in the company of a great feline.
Sources:
- Exotic Shorthair | VCA Animal Hospitals
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome In Cats | VCA Animal Hospitals
- Polycystic Kidney Disease | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine
- Grooming And Coat Care For Your Cat | VCA Animal Hospitals
Photo credits:
- Tarsus ze Exotic
- Cyrus Chew via Unsplash
- Dan Wayman via Unsplash
