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British Shorthair Kittens

British Shorthair History

The British Shorthair is possibly the oldest known cat breed in England, thought to be the domestic cat of ancient Rome brought back by the Romans when they invaded England all those many years ago. This breed was first called British Blue because blue/grey was the only known colour around, however, as more colours were introduced through breeding the name was changed to British Shorthair.

A cat fancier named Harrison Weir worked to establish the breed in the 1800's and because of him, the first British Shorthairs were shown at the Crystal Palace in London. After this initial introduction, the breed became extremely popular at shows, but then during the 1900's other more exotic breeds, such as Persian and Siamese came to England and took the place of the British Shorthair as the most popular breed. It wasn't until about 30 years after this that breeding of this cat became popular again and they were cross-bred with Persians and other long-haired breeds in attempt to improve the breed. This resulted in the British Shorthairs large round head, they remain a popular breed and the amount of breeding has been increasing every year. The intelligent, relaxed character of this cat has been greatly recognised by many and they have become a preferred cat to train and also a popular breed to use in the media, for example, in films and adverts.

The strength and hunting skills of the British Shorthair is what first attracted cat fanciers to this breed, however, when people began owning the cats as pets they realised other key characteristics the cats possessed such as loyalty and calmness. In the 1980s the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) recognised the breed and gave it championship status. This breed is is not a well known breed in America but they have a similar cat in terms of appearance and temperament known as the American Shorthair.

British Shorthair Appearance

The British 'blue' Shorthair is a stocky cat with short, dense silky fur that comes in hundreds of colour and marking combinations. This breed can be found in practically every colour of other domestic cats, however, blue is the most well known because it is the most common. The tabby is the oldest known colour, which relates to this breeds connection to its wildcat roots. The tabby's markings and coloured striped are distinctive and strong. Their short fur does not need grooming unlike other breeds, as the cats are able to groom themselves and keep the fur looking plush.

The British Shorthair has a medium to large size body and appears broad and strong. Their heads are large and round and sit on a short stumpy neck, their facial features are set close together making their heads appear even larger. Their eyes are very round and again can come in a number of colours. The most common shades are gold and coppers (almost orange) but silver tabbies have hazel or green eyes and some newer coloured Shorthairs even have blue. Their ears are generally quite small and set far apart with rounded tips. Then there's their mouth - perhaps their most irresistible characteristic due to the continuous smile created by their whisker pads. These cats have quite short legs compared to other breeds and their tails are thick with a rounded tip.

British Shorthair Personality

This cat is a perfect addition to the family if you are looking for a calm, gentle friend who doesn't demand continuous attention. Although quiet, these intelligent creatures are very affectionate, confident and aware of their surroundings. They have a playful nature (especially when kittens) but are also quite happy to be a 'lap cat' if someone at home is sitting down.

British Shorthairs love company and like to know someone is around. (Usually so they can be fed!) They are especially gentle and placid around children and other domestic animals and do not make much noise unless there is something wrong, like they're hungry. They are quite happy to be house cats as long as they aren't left alone all the time, they also enjoy a little time chasing leaves and climbing in the garden.

Brits can be quite shy to begin with but when they become more familiar with their surroundings they are extremely loyal pets. Many cats of other breeds tend to bond with just one person in a family rather than everyone, but British Shorthairs show their affection to the whole household.

  • Playfulness
  • Medium-High
  • Intelligence
  • High
  • Independence
  • High
  • Attention Seeking
  • Low
  • Affectionate
  • Medium-High
  • Activeness
  • Medium
  • Friendliness to Children
  • Very High
  • Friendliness to other Pets
  • High

    British Shorthair Lifespan

    14 - 20 years

    British Shorthair Average Litter Size

    The average litter size for this breed is 5 kittens which is relatively small compared to some other well known breeds.

    British Shorthair Recognition

  • This breed has been given Championship Status by all respected Assosiations.
  • In 1996 the British Shorthair breed was ranked 20th out of 36 breeds by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA).
  • User Comments

    Comment by Kazy, Tuesday 21st April 2009
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    Tabitha my kitty is a Bristish Shorthaired Silver Calico :] With light green eyes. xox
    Comment by Kazy, Tuesday 21st April 2009
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    I think my cat Tabitha is a British Shorthair, she looks Calico but also silver colored and she has like green eyes [just like her mother which was a maincoon/persian] We don't know the tom cat. But still she looks a lot like this cat's description. She's a kitten but about a month or two old now.
    Comment by glamour puss, Thursday 16th April 2009
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    hi my friend has 3 bsh and they are lovely Im getting my first one next month to join our mad house of three boxers maddi bonnie and amber and my five moggy the youngest is teddinton he is six weeks he is half bsh black then saffy she is half persian and 9 wks and then sydney he is pure white and 12 wks plus salem and dylon my 9 and 12 year old i love animals
    Comment by Sophie, Monday 6th April 2009
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    I have two British Shorthairs (one blue and one colour-point). They are both girls and both 2 years 9 months old but one is much bigger than the other. Just wanted to know how much does a Female British Shorthair cat usually weigh at their age?
    Comment by Melissa (no.#1 commenter), Saturday 28th March 2009
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    british shorthairs are really cute
    Comment by Jas, Monday 23rd March 2009
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    We have a British blue kitten and are now looking for a BSH colourpoint but don't seem to be able to find any anywhere. We don't mind waiting a couple of months, but can anyone recommend a breeder? We are based in Hertfordshire but willing to travel a bit to get one.
    Comment by Hunna Bleize, Sunday 1st March 2009
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    There so georgous and so nice but i'm allergic to cats but i have a kitten named Noah my old kitten died in 2006 in a car crash her name was Noel SOOOOOOOOO CUTE!!!!!
    Comment by Catherine, Friday 30th January 2009
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    Hi Joanna -- I have a little British blue boy. He's very affectionate, but only sometimes. If he's been left alone a while (like when we're at work) he needs time to run around, be rambunctious and work off that extra energy. Then, when he's tired, he'll come and snuggle and purr. Also, he gets nervous when he's left alone, so there's a period of time when we just get home that he's hyper -- and in a kitten, that can translate into nipping and clawing. I just had a week off work and spent alot more time at home that usual, and also had more friends over, and the kitty was obviously more affectionate. Are you sure you're spending enough time with her? Even just hanging around the house with her, letting her sleep at the foot of her bed, and not forcing her to you. This is my 7th cat. My advice is to train yours quickly not to bite or play with her mouth on your hands. She's little now, but her teeth will get bigger with the rest of her, and you don't want an aggressive full-grown cat. It's tough, balancing being strict about biting, but also drawing her out to be affectionate. Just takes time and patience.
    Comment by Oakham British Shorthairs, Thursday 29th January 2009
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    Chantel & Shelley , If you ares struggling to find a reputable breeder with kittens please contact us and we will help you find a suitable kitten from a reputable breeder , but be prepared to travel !! Our contact details can be found on the breeders page in the West Midlands
    Comment by tania buchanan, Tuesday 27th January 2009
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    SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CUTE
    Comment by Chantel, Tuesday 27th January 2009
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    Please help me! I have my heart set on a little female British Shorthair kittens ideally blue, lilac or colour point however I cannot find a breeder with kittens available. Can anyone recommend a breeder to me or give me some advice please?
    Comment by Shelley, Friday 23rd January 2009
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    Does anyone know a reputable breeder where I may obtain a white bsh kitten with blue eyes? I may soon lose the most amazingly affectionate blue bsh to FIP and I know he's going to leave a huge gap in my life. Once the ordeal is over and I've waited a few months to ensure the virus isnt present in my home, I'd love to give another one of these amazing cats a loving place to live. Many Thanks.
    Comment by Charlotte, Saturday 17th January 2009
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    Me and my partner recently purchased a British Blue Colourpoint and he is perfect! So affectionate and beautiful! Would recommend this breed to anyone...infact we love the breed so much we are looking to purchase another!
    Comment by chris, Tuesday 13th January 2009
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    what is the best sized cat flap to get as am purchasing two boys and am worried about security will they fit through a standard cat flap ?
    Comment by Joanna, Monday 12th January 2009
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    I have a white BSH. She is 6 months old but she is not very affectionate. If you try to stroke her she attacks your hands and bites. I was after a pet to be company for myself and I am beginning to feel that I have choose wrong. Can anyone please advise on how, if at all possible, I can have a more affectionate cat. She was spayed just before Xmas. But she is a lot happier with her own company. I want some cuddles:-(
    Comment by Angela, Friday 2nd January 2009
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    i think the boys are definitely more laid back than the girls but there are always exceptions ! I have two lovely shorthairs : a blue silver tabby and a red silver tabby (fabulous colour !) but am now a complete devotee of the bsh varients which have a semi long coat. They are the most beautiful cats ever and are very easy to care for. Not too many about so might be worth looking on kittenlist
    Comment by Cally, Friday 2nd January 2009
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    BSH ( British Shorthair ) are a brilliant breed and are perfect for a family pet. They are very affectionate ( both boys and girls ) and they love cuddles and attention. I have one at home and she is so loving and loves cuddles !!!! so if your looking for a new cat that will get along with everyone in the family definatley go BSH !!!!!!!!!
    Comment by Leanne, Tuesday 30th December 2008
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    I have 2 bsh, (Simba and Narla) one blue and white boy, he is so lovin, and a girl who is so beautifull...would recommend one of these cats to anyone.
    Comment by lola dompay, Saturday 20th December 2008
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    i have two blue kittens named luna and stella that i got super young at only 2 weeks old they could barely walk and i bottle fed them now they are 2 months and playfull as ever! i love them so much and there good for all ages there like my kids my boyfriend julian loves them althogh hes not a cat or animal person at that! email me for more info at catlover642L&S@gmail.com
    Comment by beth, Monday 8th December 2008
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    i want one of these they look soo cute and cuddly there big eyes!!!! ..xx..xx
    Comment by BS@BS, Sunday 7th December 2008
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    Me and my friend like these cats~~~
    Comment by Ashley, Tuesday 2nd December 2008
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    Hi John - if you are looking for a BSH to go with your young family a male may be better. They grow a lot bigger and are more soft and cuddly. I adore my girls to bits but they are not big lap cats where the male is such a soppy big boy. You may want to consider getting a cat when they are younger so as to get them into your routine. However, if you are not at home during the day you may want to get two as they like company. I see they sell them in newspapers but can I suggest you get a list of breeders who are certified from the BSH Cat Club as they keep accurate breeding charts and you know they are healthy and happy little kittens. Hope this helps and good luck!!!
    Comment by john, Wednesday 26th November 2008
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    So I have decided on a bsh as a new member of the family, no other pets but have kids of 1 and 3 years old. Should I look for a girl or a boy - any guidance greatfully received.
    Comment by anthea, Sunday 16th November 2008
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    I have an 11 year old male lilac point, with bright blue eyes. Harry is very quiet and nervous around other people he doesn't know well, and the only time he ever makes a noise is if he goes in his cat box to the cattery when i go away. He's the leader of a gang of 4 cats in our street and happily shares his meals with them, giving them a wash as they eat!!!! Harry's particular skill is playing football, when i screw up a small peice of paper he loves running round the living room dribbling shooting and scoring with it. He's a very handsome boy and he knows it, but then most BSH are.
    Comment by Neil, Friday 14th November 2008
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    I had a bsh tabby...she was 14 when she died 2 weeks ago..She was a beautiful good natured cat that followed me around all the time...She drove me up the wall but we all loved her...Were getting 2 ginger female kittens tomorrow..cant wait.
    Comment by stacy, Thursday 6th November 2008
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    I have just reserved a blue female ready in january, never had a pedigree before and haven't had a cat for years. has anyone got any wise advice?
    Comment by Shell, Wednesday 29th October 2008
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    I have a blue girl 19 months old, she is very cute but sooo attention seeking it's unreal. She bites my boyfreinds helicopter and climbs up on the computer desk and paws anything that will move and make a noise untill you stroke her. She dislikes being picked up but follows you around the house like a shadow. She's apain but we luv her
    Comment by Vanessa, Tuesday 30th September 2008
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    I have a boy Henry and girl Molly. Both adorable chubby placid not so little (7 kilo boy) kittens who, to my delight, fetch like a dog. Love them so much I'm thinking of getting another but am scared people will start referring to me as that strange cat woman.
    Comment by Amber's slave, Tuesday 23rd September 2008
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    Our unchipped Blue female adopted us as a stray from we know not where and is probably now eight. She's very vocal if she comes in through an open door and doesn't know where everyone is, and she's obsessively devoted to one member of the family, following round like a dog. We didn't intend to have another cat after previous pets died, but wouldn't be without her now.
    Comment by Philippa Webb, Monday 22nd September 2008
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    Our silver tabby British Shorthair (just like the current Whiskas ad) is being born in two days time and we will het him/her on 20th December....just in time to wreck the Christmas tree! Can't wait! Already have a blue BSH boy called Baloo, rescued him from a lady that didn't want him anymore. Couldn't have asked for a better cat and can't wait for my new baby either! Adding this to my female black Moggy, I couldn't ask for a better family....who needs kids?!?!?
    Comment by Kristie, Oldham, Thursday 18th September 2008
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    I have a BSH lilac colour point, and BSH cream colour point. They are affectionate, funny, very placid and playful. They happily visit other houses (even if they have pets), travel well in car to go on holiday and are very friendly. They are full of mischief, cuddly teddy bears and you can't get over how beautiful they look. Would recommend this breed a million times over.
    Comment by brian, Thursday 21st August 2008
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    im getting an adorable brittish blue from a amazing breeder im getting it in 1 week; but i did cost me £1000 but i dont care because its the best cat (in my area) that money can buy
    Comment by Martin Ross, Tuesday 19th August 2008
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    My partner and I are travelling from Kingston, Surrey up to Doncaster to collect our 13 week old little'uns, Rafael & Ruben. The British Shorthair blue is a stunning cat. We can't wait.
    Comment by pam, Friday 1st August 2008
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    i have a rescued female bsh shes lovely and have just bought 2 boys 1 lilac and 1 colourpoint am having a bit of problem with dolly she really hisses at them any ideas on how to introduce them
    Comment by julie, Tuesday 29th July 2008
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    i am picking up my 17 week old blue boy saturday 3 hours drive away spending 48 hours with him then going to work for 12 hours next day. Will he be okay, coming from lots of company?
    Comment by mark and kelly, Wednesday 23rd July 2008
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    we have just bought a female british blue kitten and she absolutely adorable.such a playfull, lovely natured kitten/cat.its out first pedigree and have no regrets.really happy.
    Comment by Tanya, Monday 21st July 2008
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    I have just got my little girl and she is amazing. I love her. I couldnt have asked for a nicer breed cat. I found a good breeder on the kitten list website.
    Comment by Robynn, Friday 18th July 2008
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    It is hard finding a british shorthair near my home, I would like a pureblood but a siamese & brit would be fine any ideas? I live in BC Fort St. John. P.S. do Brit cope well on a plane ride from toronto to F.S.J.
    Comment by Heather Dobie, Thursday 17th July 2008
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    I have 2 female sibling black and white, british short hairs, 11 months old. They are so playful, absoloutly adorable though, one is very affectionate and the other is very independant and boisterous!! They are adorable, beautiful, loving cats. I couldn't imagine life without them!!!!
    Comment by Helen M, Wednesday 16th July 2008
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    I have just reserved two gorgeous little blue boys! Going to visit them this weekend and they'll be ready in september! Can't wait! To the person in Scotland...there are breeders up there but expect to travel. I'm driving four hours away for mine. I felt it important to choose the breeder I felt best. x
    Comment by Nikki, Sunday 13th July 2008
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    I'm picking up my Siamese X British Blue tomorrow, he is totally gorgeous! Sleek Siamese appearance with beautiful blue coat and massive green eyes. I've only ever owned moggies before, does anyone else own an Oriental X BSH who could give me some advice?
    Comment by Ellie, Wednesday 25th June 2008
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    I have a gorgeous rescue cat about 5 years old.. she has a very unusual tail in that it curls up over her body .. a bit like a squirrel! absolutely lovely temperament and we adore her.. could someone define the difference between a blue and a lilac for me.. I sometimes wonder if she is a lilac ..
    Comment by Dimitri Daskalakis, Thursday 19th June 2008
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    I bought a blue female two weeks ago. She's now 15 weeks old. I've called her "Heidi". She is the most well behaved cat I've ever had with the plushest fur coat. She is extremely affectionate and she sleeps like a baby at night. Playful, eats all that she's given, and she is never destructive. I just love her!
    Comment by Tess, Wednesday 4th June 2008
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    I'm getting a blue male, he will be 4 months old, does anyone know how they cope being left alone as I have to work during the day
    Comment by popo, Tuesday 3rd June 2008
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    i have reseved a male kitten bsh but he is skinny compare to other kittens
    Comment by Nicola, Friday 16th May 2008
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    I am getting a lilac boy in August. Can't wait
    Comment by Steph, Thursday 13th March 2008
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    We have a 16 week old cream boy called Otto. Everything they say about the breed is true, loyal, affectionate and intelligent. Unfortunately, also very naughty, although he knows exactly when he is doing wrong ! He is, however, happy with his own company, in his cage when we are both out at work. We would never get any other kind of cat now, and are considering a colourpoint, blue or black addition to the family.
    Comment by Chris Byers, Wednesday 12th March 2008
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    I have an 11 month blue boy and he is my shadow. The only thing he does out of the ordinary is talks a lot, he shouts to see if anybody is in the house and says hello when there is. He is wedged between me and the laptop as I type or try to!!!!
    Comment by Laura Cole, Tuesday 11th March 2008
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    If anyone on here has a kitten they do not want please let me know my email is GoddessOfTwo@live.co.uk as our cat died just before xmas and i ahve been looking for a kitten ever since!!! cheers
    Comment by Becky Hodgkinson, Monday 3rd March 2008
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    I had a BSH Blue, his name was Bohemian! Boh-cat was originally my cat but when our children arrived, he became our cat he loves the boys. . . even though they pull his tail and test his patience to the absolute limit! My patience gives out before his does and I ask the children to play nicely or leave Boh-cat alone! A star amongst felines, the BSH breed is to be recommended as a companion, playmate and a friend! When replacing this boy. . . there can only be one option - 2 BSH kittens so that they can be friends together!
    Comment by Fiona, Monday 3rd March 2008
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    am looking for a kitten.. does anyone know where i could get one about, iv'e looked what seems everywhere. I live in the scottish borders. please help.
    Comment by Lynne, Saturday 9th February 2008
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    I have a cream boy and a blue boy and they are brothers they are the most affectionate cats i have known. They run to welcome me home and are gentle and playful, i would recommend getting two as they love each others company
    Comment by Hazel, Sunday 27th January 2008
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    I have an 11 year old lilac-point boy, who is a great big soft lump of a cat. A real teddy bear with a big smiley face and SO loyal. I love him, and would highly recommend this breed to anyone. The British are highly intelligent, but not in a demanding way. They know what's right and what's wrong, are happy to be indoor cats and just want to be your friend. If you're considering a cat - then please do consider a BSH! You won't be disappointed!
    Comment by sophia, Monday 24th December 2007
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    i have a blue girl, she is so cute, loves to play with my daughter, she is only 12 weeks yet, but so so kind, lies on her back and loves to be stroked on her belly. she is so quiet, excellent temperament, definetly a cat to buy. money well spent!
    Comment by lisa, Monday 17th December 2007
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    i love these cats! i have a little girl she is a blue/cream called missy shes like a teddy bear!
    Comment by Rain, Tuesday 4th December 2007
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    i love kittens and british shorthairs are no exception!!!! they are one of my favorite breeds!!!
    Comment by Claire, Saturday 24th November 2007
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    These cats are gorgeous! I have one black shorthair named Sooty, and I also used to have her brother, a ginger tabby who I'm asuming got his fluffiness from the cross breeding :D. Sooty is 13 years old, and likes being stroked and cuddled :) When i read this page, I was looking at Sooty (who is currently sitting on my lap) and nodding, especially about the part with the friendliness to children. My parents often tell me about when I was a toddler and we got her, and she and her brother (Pebbles, like Pebbles off The Flinstones) would let me carry them round in the oddest positions, but if anyone else tried to pick them up they would end up with scratches! I LOVE these cats!
    Comment by Suzi Lander, Tuesday 6th November 2007
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    We have a 17 month year old british blue boy (dark blue), who is new to our family. At the moment he is still exploring the house and doesn't like too much attention, hopefully this will change with time. Likes to sit alone but in the same room as us. Very vocal and talks to himself. He is lovely to look at at puts a smile on our face.
    Comment by Michelle, Wednesday 26th September 2007
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    I have a gorgeous female called Mia who is 1 year and 2 months, she has took over our lives!!!! There are a few frayed carpets and sofas due to her playfulness! but we would not swap her for the world, a true member of the family devoted not to one person but to each member. She is a diamond!!!!
    Comment by amy smith, Saturday 22nd September 2007
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    i breed british shorthairs, and they are one of the most enjoyable cats ive come across.very inteligent.you can get stunning colours!lovely kittens.this is a cat to have.
    Comment by Tracy B, Friday 17th August 2007
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    I have 3 cats, 2 of which are Brits - a blue/cream and a blue. They are the best breed of cats in the World - I will definitely be getting more of them.
    Comment by Sharon Findlay, Wednesday 25th July 2007
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    I have a blue female who is 8 months old and she is the cutest thing EVER! her little face just melts your heart
    Comment by auronica, Sunday 15th July 2007
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    sweet kittens i luv them!!!!!
    Comment by Sarah, Saturday 14th July 2007
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    I've just adopted a 4.5 year old female colourpoint (lilac) and she is stunning with a lovely personality. Highly recommended breed of cat with their lovely cheshire cat faces and glass marble eyes..
    Comment by Leanne, Monday 2nd July 2007
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    I have just brought a blue colour point tabby, I can't wait to pick him up.
    Comment by Sarraa Abdulkader, Friday 29th June 2007
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    i've got 3 kittens of this breed but they're totroiseshells and one of them is ginger with a cute pattern on her head. i've also got their mother and she's a tortoiseshell as well. the odd one out is the ginger one, but that doesn't make a difference. they're all female and very playful. they're sooooooo sweet!
    Comment by leona, Monday 21st May 2007
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    its georgous there so cudly and sweet lookin they make your heart melt
    Comment by lottie woodward, Sunday 20th May 2007
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    these cats are my favorite! im so glad im getting a little girl soon! they are so affectionate too!!!
    Comment by lucy cowgill, Tuesday 17th April 2007
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    i love these cats! can you get them in any other colour
    Please note that the above comments are submitted by visitors to FindaKitten.co.uk and are not the views of anyone working on this website or at Memiah Limited.