The Exotic Shorthair, a relatively new breed often dubbed the "shorthair Persian," is medium sized and robustly built. They feature a round, broad head that appears large in proportion to their body, complete with large round eyes and a short muzzle, contributing to their unique and sometimes solemn expression. Their small ears are set widely apart, enhancing the roundness of their face. The body is compact, supported by short, sturdy legs and large, rounded paws with tufted toes, and they boast a short, bushy tail. Known for their dense coat, the Exotic Shorthair's short, plush fur includes a soft, dense undercoat.

• Exotic Shorthair cats are modestly vocal cat.
• Suited to Indoor Cat life.
• Serene and composed cat.
• Exotic Shorthair cats require an experienced owner.
• Social and reliant cat.
• Exotic Shorthair are ideal family companion.
• Exotic Shorthair are curious and energetic cat.
• Exotic Shorthair cats need daily Grooming.
• Comfortable alone for short periods.
• Exotic Shorthair are perfect for a calm household.
• Medium sized Cat Breed.
• Exotic Shorthair adapt well to apartment living.
• Requires regular vet check ups due to their brachycephalic nature.
• Enjoys Interactive Cat Toys.
• Exotic Shorthair have a soft, dense coat that’s prone to shedding.
• Known for their expressive, round eyes.

This Cat Breed is prone to health issues due to its brachycephalic (flat faced) nature, including:

• Brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome: a condition in breeds with short noses and flattened faces, leading to breathing difficulties and severe respiratory distress.

• ---

  Skin inflammation/infection: caused by excessive facial skin folds typical in brachycephalic breeds, increasing the risk of soreness and infections.

• ---

  Eye ulcers: more prevalent in brachycephalic breeds due to their protruding eyes, resulting in painful erosions on the eye's surface.

Additionally, the Exotic Shorthair may suffer from:

• Polycystic Kidney Disease, an inherited condition causing cysts in the kidneys, impairing kidney function and potentially leading to kidney failure.

Testing is available:

• DNA testing for polycystic kidney disease determines a cat's susceptibility to this inherited condition. These health concerns highlight the importance of careful breeding practices and monitoring the breed's gene pool.

The Exotic Shorthair is essentially a shorthaired variant of the Persian Cat, known for its dense and plush coat. Originating from deliberate breeding efforts since the 1960s, breeders crossed the longhaired Persian with the British Shorthair to achieve this distinct look. As part of the International Cat Fancier Association, Exotic Shorthair breeders prioritize maintaining their distinctive short, dense coats. Despite their connection to Persians, Exotic Shorthairs exhibit a slightly higher activity level while maintaining their reputation as a laid-back and affectionate breed.

Each cat is unique, with specific likes, dislikes, and nutritional needs. As obligate carnivores, cats, including the Exotic Shorthair and Persian breeds, require 41 essential nutrients from their diet. The balance of these nutrients varies depending on factors such as age, lifestyle, and health status. For example, an active kitten will need different nutritional support compared to a less active senior cat.

Find out more about Kitten Care with our article.

It's important to feed them the appropriate quantity of food to maintain their ideal body condition, following feeding guidelines. Additionally, offering a choice between wet and dry cat food recipes ensures they receive a balanced diet that meets their individual preferences and requirements.

Find out more about cat nutrition with our article. 

The Exotic Shorthair, known for its short face and dense coat, requires Daily Grooming due to its limited self grooming ability. Focus on cleaning around the face, eyes, and under the tail after each litter box use. Trimming the fur around the genital area may be necessary if your cat tends to get dirty there. Regular grooming is crucial for this breed, as their Persian ancestry and plush coat require meticulous care. Additionally, prioritize Regular Vaccination and Tick control, essential for the health of all Exotic Shorthairs and other cats.

Ideal for tranquil and serene environments, the Exotic Shorthair may not thrive in homes with young children or bustling activity. While they tolerate being alone during the day, they do need daily maintenance, requiring commitment from owners.

• Exotic Shorthairs are often referred to as "teddy bears" due to their round faces, chubby cheeks, and plush coats, giving them an adorably soft appearance.

• ---

  One of the most famous Exotic Shorthairs is "Snoopy," a viral internet sensation. Snoopy Exotic Shorthair became popular for his round face and large eyes, perfectly showcasing the breed's signature look.

• ---

  Unlike Persian cats, Exotic Shorthairs have short, dense coats that require much less grooming, making them a great choice for those who want a cute cat with less upkeep.

• ---

  Despite their calm and laid-back nature, Exotic Shorthairs love to play and are known to be affectionate companions, making them ideal pets for families or individuals seeking an engaging and loving cat.