Exotic Shorthair
Cat · Medium, cobby build
Breed characteristics
| Characteristic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Cat |
| Size / type | Medium, cobby build |
| Energy level | Low |
| Life expectancy | 12 to 15 years |
| Grooming needs | Medium |
| Good with kids | Yes |
| Temperament | Calm, Sweet, Homebody, Placid, Affectionate |
About the Exotic Shorthair
A breed created in the United States between the 1950s and 1960s, when breeders crossed Persians with American Shorthairs in an attempt to improve the coat sturdiness and color of the American breed. The unexpected result was a cat with the same sturdy body and flat face as the Persian, but with a short, dense coat — which is why it's often nicknamed the "lazy man's Persian."
It inherited the Persian's docile, calm, and extremely homebody temperament, but with a significant practical advantage: its short coat skips the daily brushing the original breed demands, needing only a few brushings a week.
It's affectionately nicknamed the "lazy cat" for its relaxed lifestyle and very low exercise needs, adapting very well to small apartments. Like the Persian, its flat face requires proactive veterinary attention for respiratory problems and regular eye cleaning.
Health and predispositions
Predisposition to polycystic kidney disease (PKD) and brachycephalic respiratory problems inherited from its Persian lineage; despite the short coat, it still sheds a fair amount due to its dense undercoat. Always consult a veterinarian for the preventive exams appropriate for this breed.