Exotic Shorthairs are known as loving lap cats! This cat has the look of a Persian but with a short, plush coat. They have round heads, round bodies and round eyes. We love the look of this cat. They have a long lifespan and can live up to 15 years.
There are five reasons to adopt this beautiful shorthair cat.
1. Exotic Shorthair history
This cat breed made its debut in the mid-20th century.
According to VetStreet.com, the Exotic Shorthair cat is an accidental breed. American Shorthair breeders bred their cats to Persians in an effort to bring in the silver color and green eyes of that breed.
"The resulting kittens didn't look like American Shorthairs, but they were very attractive, having the Persian look but with a short, plush coat. Other breeders brought in Burmese or Russian Blues to get the gene for the short coat. The various offspring were bred back to Persians, and a new breed was born: the Exotic Shorthair, or just Exotic."
2. Mental enrichment and exercise requirements
This breed needs a lot of exercise so that round body doesn't get any rounder. They love chasing toys and pouncing on just about anything that moves. Trupanion tells us the American Shorthair part of them needs plenty of mental enrichment:
"They have retained the hunting instinct from the American Shorthair so play sessions with a wand toy and prey-like lures will be fun and appreciated by these cats. This breed likes to be around their human guardians and watch what they are doing, so be sure to provide them with plenty of spots so they can keep an eye on you, like a stool or shelves."
3. Grooming requirements... No matting
This may not be on the "reasons" to adopt them, but grooming isn't something you can ignore with this breed. Their coats are easy to manage though, and once or twice a week, you'll need to brush him or use stainless steel comb.
4. Common health issues
There are some health problems you'll need to be aware of.
Even though grooming is low maintenance, this breed of cat is prone to kidney failure and PKD. You should always consider this 'lazy man's Persian' and his possible health issues as they're a flat face or brachycephalic breed, which is prone to breathing problems similar to a short nose Pug.
Popular cat breeds like this easy-going Exotic Shorthair cat should be researched well before bringing one home.
5. Routine care
Check those ears routinely for wax. You'll also need to wash those eyes regularly so the tear stains aren't an issue.
Other easy, routine care and management? Prestige Animal Hospital provides these tips:
- She is prone to obesity, watch her weight.
- It is important that your cat drinks adequate amounts of water. If she won't drink water from her bowl try adding ice cubes or a flowing fountain.
- Feed a high-quality feline diet appropriate for her age.
What cat breed do you live with? Leave a comment below with your story.
