Step into the enchanting realm of the Exotic Shorthair, where the charm of plush teddy bears merges seamlessly with the affectionate purr of a feline.
This breed, with its adorable squashed face and short, dense coat, is rapidly capturing the hearts of cat aficionados worldwide.
These cats embody the quintessential Persian spirit—laid-back and loving—but without the demanding grooming regimen tied to the Persian's luxurious long coat.
Picture the Exotic Shorthair lounging lazily in a sunbeam, its round, expressive eyes blinking at you with affection. It's a sight that's sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
Just a few strokes of their thick, plush coat, and you'll understand why this breed is increasingly becoming a top pick among cat lovers.
Exotic Shorthairs are more than just a pretty faces; their docile temperament and loving nature make them ideal companions for those seeking a low-maintenance pet.
They offer all the allure of the Persians' distinctive silhouette, coupled with a unique body and head shape, yet they ask for little in return. No wonder they're quickly becoming a favorite!
Join us as we delve into the delightful world of the Exotic Shorthair Cat, where you'll find out why this breed could be the perfect pet for you.
Breed History
The first documented breeding program involving a short-haired version of Persian cats took place in Britain in the 1950s.
Persian cats were crossed mainly with British Shorthairs to produce shorthairs with the Persian build.
During the 1960's similar programs were developed across the Atlantic, by American breeders who crossed Persian cats with American Shorthairs.
It was only in 1967 that these cats began to be shown under the name "Exotic Shorthair", with clubs dedicated to the breed forming both in the UK and the USA.
Most associations no longer allow crosses to anything but Persian cats, and most of the breed development is now done within the existing gene pool of the Exotic Shorthairs.
Breed Description
An Exotic Shorthair is like a Persian in all breed standards except coat length and type. They share the same stocky build, heavily boned and balanced, along with a large round head and large round eyes.
In fact, without the long fluffy hair of the Persian, it is usually easier to judge the cat's build and shape. The lack of long hair gives this breed an even rounder look.
Like Persian cats, Exotic Shorthairs come in a variety of coat colors and patterns. Since the 1980's pointed coat patterns (like the Siamese or Himalayan) are also acceptable in Exotic Shorthairs.
The personality of the Exotic Shorthairs matches that of the Persians.
The Exotic Shorthairs are often described as affectionate, mellow, and laid back, although some breeders claim the Shorthairs are not as laid back as the Persians and may show personality traits normally associated with American Shorthairs.
Special Needs & Concerns
Exotic Shorthairs are susceptible to many of the health hazards and genetic problems that may affect Persians.
Good breeders work hard to weed out these problems, so making sure that you are dealing with a qualified and ethical breeder is imperative when buying an Exotic Shorthair.
Some of these common ailments include deformities to the jaws, nose, and eyes, which could lead to sinus problems, breathing difficulties, and tear duct problems.
Breeders should also test for PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease) and make sure that their breeding lines are PKD-free.
Exotic Shorthair cats do not have any special grooming requirements. Their plush coat does well with occasional brushing.
A Journey's End in the Exotic Shorthair's Embrace
Our exploration of the Exotic Shorthair breed reaffirms its unique charm and affectionate demeanor.
Their history is a testament to breeders' efforts in creating a cat that embodies the elegance of the Persian cat but with a more low-maintenance coat.
Their distinctive rounder appearance and varied coat colors add to their allure. Beyond their looks, their mellow and loving nature makes them ideal companions, winning hearts worldwide.
While potential health concerns are present, responsible breeding practices aim to mitigate these risks. Hence, dealing with reputable breeders is crucial.
In essence, the Exotic Shorthair cat is an enchanting breed that offers a delightful balance of aesthetics and personality.
Welcoming an Exotic Shorthair into your life means embracing a companion that brings joy and warmth, a testament to why they're a top choice among cat lovers.
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