The British Shorthair is recognizable as one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, they are known for their round face, chunky build and affectionate personality.
They make a great family pet and bring joy and liveliness to any home.
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The British Shorthair cat is normally a calm and laid-back cat. They are not typically high-energy or demanding and its this that makes them an excellent choice for people who prefer a more low-key pet.
Known for their love of attention and their desire to be close to their owners, they enjoy cuddling up, and they are often described as "lap cats". They are however just as comfortable spending time alone. British Shorthairs are fairly smart cats that are quick to learn new things, they are curious by nature and enjoy exploring their surroundings.
The British Shorthair is a medium to large-sized cat breed. They have a distinctive round face coupled with a powerful, muscular body. Their coats are short and plush to the touch. Their coats comes in a wide range of both colors and patterns including blue, black, white, cream, red, silver, and tabby.
With a round and fairly large head the British Shorthair is reconisable. It has a short, large nose and big round eyes which are typically copper or gold in color. They have small and rounded ears, a stocky, well proportioned body and a straight tail.
Like all cat breeds, the British Shorthair can be susceptible to certain health issues. However, they are generally a robust and healthy breed with a lifespan of 12 to 17 years. Here are some of the most common health concerns to be aware of:
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a heart condition that can affect cats of all breeds. It involves the thickening of the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure if left untreated. Regular heart check-ups with a veterinarian can help detect HCM early.
Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): This is an inherited condition that causes the development of fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. It can lead to kidney failure over time, and there is currently no cure. However, genetic testing can help identify cats that carry the gene for PKD, allowing breeders to make informed breeding decisions.
Obesity: British Shorthairs have a tendency to gain weight, so it's important to monitor their diet and exercise regularly to prevent obesity-related health problems.
Dental problems: British Shorthairs are also prone to dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. Regular dental check-ups and cleaning can help prevent these problems.
They are known for their love of sitting on paper. Whether it's a newspaper, magazine, or even a sheet of printer paper, many British Shorthairs seem to be inexplicably drawn to sitting on top of it.
The origins of the British Shorthair can be traced back to ancient Rome where it is thought that the cats were kept as mousers on board Roman ships. Over time, these cats were brought to the British Isles and interbred with native feral.
During the 19th century, the British Shorthair was bred as a show cat, with the goal of creating a breed with a more uniform appearance. They first appeared at the Crystal Palace Cat Show back in 1871.
During World War II they suffered a decline in numbers due to food shortages and the fact that many cats were put down to conserve resources. After the war, breeders worked to rebuild the population of British Shorthairs, and they once again became a popular breed.
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Size: Medium
Life span: 12 years or more
Exercise: Up to 1 hour per day
Home size: Medium
Coat length size: Short
Sheds: False