The facial expression of the Exotic Shorthair cat is similar to that of the Persian cat. However, their fur is shorter and therefore much easier to care for. The animals, which come from the USA, are characterized by their gentle character and prove to be extremely pleasant roommates. Anyone who wants a cozy cat to keep in their apartment will definitely make a good choice with the Exotic Shorthair.
Key facts at a glance:
- Name: Exotic Shorthair Cat
- Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years
- Origin: United States
- Size: shoulder height about 22 cm
- Weight: cats 2.5 to 3 kg/ tomcats 3 to 4.5 kg
- Fur: short, dense and soft in various colors and patterns
- Character: gentle, calm, affectionate, comfortable and charming
Origin and History of the Exotic Shorthair Cat
The exotic shorthair cat is a short-haired breed of the Persian cat. She originally comes from the USA, where she was created from crosses between American Shorthair and Persian cats.
In the further course of breeding, Burmese cats were also crossed in to further develop the breed. The English name of this breed is Exotic Shorthair.
The exotic shorthair cat has been recognized as a breed in the USA since 1966. However, the FIFe merged the breed standards of Exotic Shorthairs and Persians in the 1980s and has since listed both cats in one class, naming the differences in coat.
Description of the Exotic Shorthair Cat
The physique of the exotic shorthair cat is muscular and compact. She has large paws and her legs are relatively short and strong.
The Exotic Shorthair cat’s head is round, as are its wide-set eyes, and its ears are noticeably small. The short and wide nose clearly indicates the relationship with the Persian cat.
The fur of exotic shorthair cats is short, dense and very soft and stands out due to the animals’ dense undercoat. It can have different patterns and colors, such as black, white or red.
The average life expectancy of the Exotic Shorthair is around 10 to 14 years. However, healthy animals can also reach an age of around 17 years if they are kept and cared for appropriately.
Nature of the Exotic Shorthair Cat
Exotic shorthair cats are quite people oriented and love to be around their owners. They are extremely intelligent and therefore surprisingly trainable for a cat to a certain extent.
With their gentle and charming nature, Exotic Shorthair cats easily manage to win over any cat lover.
Otherwise, they like it quiet and comfortable. Occasional play is certainly accepted, but in contrast to some other breeds, Exotic Shorthair cats are by no means always enthusiastic about it.
Exotic shorthair cat attitude
Exotic shorthair cats are ideal for keeping in apartments. They prove to be relatively undemanding, appreciate the company of other cats and, after an appropriate period of acclimatization, also get along very well with dogs living in the household.
However, Exotic Shorthair cats attach great importance to a close bond with their human roommates and do not like to be alone for long periods of time. Male cats in particular are considered to be particularly affectionate and increasingly seek the closeness of their owners, while cats are a little more reserved in this regard.
Thanks to their short hair, the Exotic Shorthair Cat’s grooming is quite uncomplicated. Normally it is sufficient to brush the four-legged friend thoroughly once or twice a week, so that the Exotic Shorthair proves to be much easier to care for than long-haired Persian cats.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Diseases
Inbreeding is a fairly common problem with Exotic Shorthair cats, which often has a very significant effect on the health of the animals. As a result, for example, many specimens have severe breathing problems due to excessively flat noses.
In addition, a genetic defect that can lead to kidney failure due to cysts on the kidneys is widespread in Exotic Shorthairs. Breeders try to get this genetic defect under control through appropriate tests and the exclusion of affected animals.
In addition, the breed tends to be overweight, which is why it is important to ensure a balanced diet and appropriate portion sizes.
Anyone who decides to buy an Exotic Shorthair cat should always contact a reputable breeder who pays the necessary attention to the well-being of the animals. To protect against high veterinary costs, we also recommend owners to take out cat health insurance.
The star among exotic shorthair cats
Garfield is probably the best known of all Exotic Shorthair cats. The great resemblance between the cartoon character and real cats of this breed becomes clear at the latest in a direct comparison with a red tabby specimen.
Although the character of Garfield is of course deliberately exaggerated, even his traits (at least in terms of laziness) are quite similar to those of the real Exotic Shorthair.