Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthair History
During the 1950's American Shorthair breeders decided to cross their cats with Persian's. The Persian breed had become increasingly popular and breeders recognised that they could potentially create American Shorthairs with better body types and that they may also inherit the beautiful silver colour in their fur. Like Persians, the hybrids were popular at shows - their heads had become rounder, their noses shorter and there fur longer and silkier.
Other American Shorthair breeders were angry at the changes and thought it was unfair to allow them into the American Shorthair category. The hybrid shorthairs were almost disallowed but then one of the CFA judges Jane Martinke suggested they should compete in their own category. The name Exotic Shorthair was chosen for the hybrid cats and in 1967 the CFA awarded the breed championship status. The breed is now accepted by many registries including the GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy) – the UK's largest cat registry.
Exotic Shorthairs had a slow start but now they are one of the more popular breeds worldwide. Their sweet affectionate nature makes them a joy to be around, a great human companion and a wonderful pet.
Exotic Shorthair Appearance
Persians had a large influence on their Exotic Shorthair descendants when it comes to body type, they are heavily boned, well balanced cats with soft features and large eyes. Their heads are round and large with small round ears set far apart and tilted forwards. Their legs are short and fat and their tails are shorter than most breeds. The coat of an Exotic Shorthair is medium length, thick and soft.
Acceptable coats include all pattern markings of a Persian and also the pointed pattern resembling the Himalayan breed. Many people refer to Exotics as Shorthaired Persians, they have the same flat faces however they still have the teddy bear look of American Shorthairs.
Exotic Shorthair Character and Temperament
Exotic Shorthairs inherited many personality characteristics from their Persian ancestors. They have a similar laid back nature and are sweet, affectionate, loyal friends. They will want to be near you all the time and will take great interest in whatever you're doing. They will love cuddles and being stroked on your lap, expect to wake up and find your Exotic Shorthair on your bed in the morning! They truly are a homely breed of cat and will fit in as part of the family almost immediately.
Although Exotic Shorthairs are very similar to Persians, they also inherited a playful nature from the American Shorthairs. They love a good game and will chase string or pat a toy mouse about the front room. They require a lot of attention and love for you to join in their games. They are known to have a very low activity level but when they do play – they play! For the majority of the time Exotics are extremely docile and love a good long sleep.
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Exotic Shorthair Lifespan
9 - 15 years
Average Litter Size
4 kittens
Common Ailments
The Exotic Shorthair is a healthy breed of cat with no specific health problems. Like with all breeds they should be checked by the vet yearly for teeth deficiencies and liver problems from about the age of 8 or 9 onwards.
Exotic Shorthair Recognition
User Comments
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really good
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My cat has a problem with her left eyelid-it sometimes rolls in. I have eyedrops to stop this happening but the vet said she will probably need an operation. Apparently flat faced dogs like pugs get this problem too.Anyone have experience of this ?
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My Mia has a very flat face and the vet says that one of her eyelids is rolling in. She will probably need an operation but I am reluctant to do this. Has anyone else had this problem and if so, any suggestions? She's got eyedrops at the momen t while we decide what to do.
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I've got a silver exotic shorthair who had been re-homed 4 times in 4 years when I took him. Now 7 years old and settled. Was quite vocal and doesn't get on well with my other cats or neighbors cats. He does scratch furniture and wallpaper. Had lots of teeth problems so get them insured. Hates heights which I think is a breed thing because they have such short legs. Cute to look at but not an indoor lapcat hates being locked in. Mine has to outdoors, they are cats after all and will behave like cats. Very friendly, gently wakes me up with a tap on the nose at 0530 every morning. Tries to follow me to work most mornings - ah ah. Everyone at the vets loves him and I have people knocking the door asking about him.
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I have had a black male exotic for seven years and he is very affectionate, which is a good thing because I paid an arm and a leg for him! Ridiculously expensive I'd say. Another thing I'd say is Very trainable and good with other animals/people. More of a ground cat than a jumper, though he can jump very very high.
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do they scratch furniture
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I love these.I have a shaded silver tortie queen due to give birth tomorrow and cant wait.
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I have 2 exotic shorthairs. Amazing animals, I laugh at their antics daily. Super affectionate and the sweetest personalities. Had a himmy and a persian before, they were great but these guys rule!!!
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i have a shorthaird exotic classic tabby female that i would like to breed,can anyone tell me how i go about this or if you have a male please get in touch. London area
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I want one so bad, but they are sooo expensive!
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does anyone know what these cats are like for scratching furniture as im thinking of buying one
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I have rescue persians but the longhair exotic we have rescued is amazing. he thrives on conversation and is so playful. our beautiful rscue persinas all of whom were badly treated are wonderful companions but this wooly exotic with hei endearing little face craves adult companionship. he is so happy he brings happiness to everyone.
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I find this animal quite ugly
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does anyone have any ideas on stopping kittens climbing up my curtains
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I have an exotic long-hair and he's the most loving cat I've ever had and he's hallarious! He also has the most wonderful, beautiful, long flowing coat that is very easy to maintain and does not matt like my other persian and himalayans. He's awesome!!
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i have a short hair exotic he is really flufy if you want a exotic long hair i am warning you there hair gets really notty and they squile when you brush it.but they are so so cute there are some for sale in cardiff
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I want to buy a exotic short hair cat. Does anyone know where can I buy it. I live in London.
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This a great bread of cat it is so friendly to children this is deffo my fave bread if you are trying a cat this is the bread.
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This is a fabulous breed of cat. I have a long hair exotic who is just the best. He is very affectionate, loves company, more playful and more active than my Persian, but very happy as a house cat with daily access to our garden. I am now looking for another exotic (short hair this time!) to keep him company and play with him.
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I would like to have an exotic short hair as a house cat. Where can I get in touch with breeders anywhere in the south east (Kent or London ) area?
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i love these cats, they are deffo my fave breed! x
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