British Shorthair Cat Breed: History, Characteristics & Health

The British Shorthair is a medium-to-large cat breed, known for its dense, plush coat and rounded features, which give it a teddy bear-like appearance. These cats are sweet and affectionate without being overly needy, making them a favorite among cat lovers. Originally from the United Kingdom, the British Shorthair developed naturally as the region’s first domestic shorthair breed. While they were initially known for their iconic blue-gray coat, today’s British Shorthairs come in a wide array of colors and patterns, including bicolor, tabby, tortoiseshell, and more.

Breed Overview

• OTHER NAMES: British blue.
• PERSONALITY: Affectionate, easy-going, and calm.
• LENGTH: About 22 to 25 inches.
• WEIGHT: About 7 to 17 pounds, with males slightly larger.
• COAT LENGTH: Short and very dense. It’s not double-coated or woolly.
• EYE COLOR: Varies depending on coat color and pattern, but maybe blue, gold, copper, green, blue-green, hazel, or odd-eyed (eyes of two different colors).
• COAT COLOR: Many solid and patterned colors, including white, black, blue, red, cream, smoke, silver, golden, cameo, tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, and bicolor.
• HYPOALLERGENIC: No.
• LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 16 years.
• ORIGIN: United Kingdom.

Pros

• Calm and laidback
• Affectionate but not needy
• Gets along well with children and other pets

Cons

• The short coat sheds moderately
• Doesn’t love being held or carried
• Shouldn’t be left alone many hours a day

You need to know

• Great for first-time cat owners
• Quiet and sedate cat
• Slightly talkative cat
• Sociable and dependent cat
• Average build cat breed
• Great family cat
• Highly active and curious cat
• Requires grooming once a week
• Needs extensive outdoor space
• Great for a relaxed home
• Can be regularly left for a few hours

Generally healthy breed

The British Shorthair cat breed can be prone to:

• Polycystic kidney disease is an inherited condition in which cysts develop in the kidneys, impairing their function and potentially leading to kidney failure.
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is a disease characterized by abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, resulting in reduced efficiency of the heart’s pumping action.
• British Shorthair autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome is a severe disorder characterized by excessive production of immune cells, causing organ enlargement, anemia, and general illness.

Testing available:

• DNA testing for British Shorthair autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome determines whether a cat carries the genetic mutation associated with this condition, indicating its potential to be affected or to pass the disorder to offspring.

History of the British Shorthair Cat

The British Shorthair is considered one of the oldest cat breeds in Great Britain. It is believed that this breed began as common street cats, but over time, breeders refined their characteristics, possibly by crossing them with Persians and Russian Blues. By the late 19th century, these cats had evolved into the breed we now recognize as the British Shorthair. They made their debut at England’s first organized cat show in 1871, where they were initially called British Blues due to their prevalent gray color. The breed was introduced to the United States in the early 1900s, though they were then referred to as Domestic Shorthairs. The Cat Fanciers Association formally recognized the British Shorthair in 1980, and today, they are a beloved breed worldwide.

Indoors or Outdoors

British Shorthairs are adaptable cats that can thrive both indoors and outdoors, provided they have access to a safe, secure environment. They prefer short bursts of activity interspersed with long periods of rest, rather than prolonged exercise. A cat-friendly outdoor space, like a secure garden or catio, can provide the perfect balance for their lifestyle.

Appearance of the British Shorthair

One of the most appealing aspects of the British Shorthair is their thick, plush coat, which comes in nearly every color and pattern imaginable. The blue-gray, or British Blue, remains a popular choice, but other colors are equally striking. These cats are easily recognized by their sturdy build, broad chest, and rounded head with chubby cheeks. British Shorthairs with blue coats often have vibrant orange-amber eyes, while other coat colors may have green, copper, amber, or blue eyes.

Enrichment and Specific Needs

British Shorthairs are social cats that enjoy spending time with their human companions. They may not be as curious or active as some breeds, but they do need regular mental and physical stimulation to stay healthy. Food-dispensing toys, chasing games, and cat trees are great ways to encourage exercise. Since they can be prone to weight gain, it’s important to incorporate activities that promote movement and mimic hunting behavior, such as hiding small piles of food on different levels of a cat tree.

Living Needs of the British Shorthair

British Shorthairs are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to their living environment. They are content to spend time lounging around the house but are also happy to engage in play when the opportunity arises. Because they are a larger breed, it’s essential to provide oversized litter boxes that can comfortably accommodate them. Cat trees, scratching posts, and other climbing structures are also appreciated by this breed, giving them spaces to scratch, stretch, and perch.

Care for British Shorthair Cats

British Shorthairs have a short, dense coat that requires minimal grooming. A weekly brush with a soft slicker brush will help remove loose fur and reduce shedding. During seasonal shedding periods, more frequent brushing may be necessary. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning should also be part of their grooming routine. British Shorthairs are generally playful, but not overly energetic, so daily play sessions with interactive toys like feather wands or toy mice will suffice to keep them active and engaged.

Grooming British Shorthairs

Even though the British Shorthair has a short coat, its density means that regular grooming is still important. A weekly comb-through helps remove dead hair and allows for a quick health check. Regular grooming also helps you spot early signs of illness, such as a greasy coat, which can indicate that your cat is not grooming itself properly. In addition to grooming, regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and parasite control are essential to maintain your British Shorthair’s health.

Common Health Problems

British Shorthairs are generally healthy cats, with few breed-specific genetic issues. However, they can be prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a type of heart disease. Regular veterinary visits are crucial to monitor for this and other potential health concerns. Like all cats, British Shorthairs can develop various health issues, so it’s important to keep up with routine check-ups and follow your vet’s advice on care and treatment.

Nutrition and Feeding

Every British Shorthair has unique nutritional needs, depending on their age, lifestyle, and health. As obligate carnivores, they require a diet rich in animal protein and other essential nutrients. The specific balance of nutrients will vary, so it’s important to provide a diet that meets their individual needs. Young, active cats may need more calories and protein, while older, less active cats may require fewer calories to maintain a healthy weight. Always follow feeding guidelines and consult your veterinarian to ensure your British Shorthair receives the proper nutrition.

Vet Rating

Characteristics of the British Shorthair Cat

Though not as large as Maine Coons or Siberians, British Shorthairs are substantial cats, with males occasionally reaching 17 pounds and females typically maxing out at 12 pounds or less. Their generous nature makes them ideal family pets, coexisting harmoniously with children and other household animals. These cats strike a balance between activity and relaxation, rarely becoming overly energetic or noisy. Adaptable to various living spaces, British Shorthairs thrive equally well in spacious homes or cozy apartments, making them versatile companions for diverse lifestyles.

Temperament

British shorthairs boast an ideal temperament: energetic yet composed, loving without being overbearing, and intelligent without resorting to mischief like raiding the fridge. These cats are known for their amiable nature, easily befriending all family members, including other pets, especially when socialized early.

This contented breed enjoys both playful activities and relaxed evenings lounging by the TV. British shorthairs strike a balance between craving attention and valuing independence, sometimes shying away from excessive physical affection.

San Francisco-based certified cat behavior consultant Marilyn Krieger highly recommends this breed, praising their gentle demeanor, easygoing attitude, and steadfast companionship.

Fun Facts

The British Shorthair breed has left its paw prints on popular culture and literature. Lewis Carroll’s Cheshire Cat from “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” is often depicted as a British Shorthair, though the exact inspiration for its iconic grin remains debated. Some attribute it to a cheese label illustration, while others point to a church carving. The Cheshire Cat’s round face and plump cheeks mirror the breed’s distinctive features.

In animated films, Puss in Boots, despite his Spanish accent, is typically portrayed as a British Shorthair with his characteristic chubby cheeks and large, expressive eyes. This representation further cements the breed’s place in popular imagination.

Beyond fiction, real-life British Shorthairs have also gained fame. A prime example is Coby the Cat, whose charming features have amassed over 1.5 million followers on Instagram, showcasing the breed’s enduring appeal in the digital age.

Suitability for Family Life

The British Shorthair is a friendly, loyal breed that fits well in various household environments. They do well in homes with older children or adults but may not be the best choice for families with very young children. Their calm and gentle nature makes them excellent companions, but their plush, round appearance can sometimes lead to misunderstandings with young children who might mistake them for toys. It’s important to teach children how to interact with cats respectfully to ensure a positive relationship.

Where to Adopt or Buy a British Shorthair Cat

The British Shorthair is a popular breed, and there are many reputable breeders listed with organizations like the Cat Fanciers Association and the International Cat Association. Attending a cat show is a great way to meet breeders and learn more about the breed. Although it’s rare to find British Shorthairs in shelters, it’s worth contacting breeders to see if they know of any adults in need of new homes.

Whether you choose to adopt or buy, make sure you select a reputable source to ensure you bring home a healthy, well-socialized British Shorthair.