British Shorthair
Plush teddy with a quiet smile, composed, independent and affectionate without being clingy. Size Medium, life expectancy 12–16 years, energy Low. Expect CHF 1'200 – 2'000 to buy and CHF 60–110 / month upkeep.
See available British Shorthair
The profile at a glance
- Calm and independent
- Perfect for apartment living
- Quiet
- Prone to overweight
- Not very demonstrative
- Brushing during shedding
Temperament
Plush teddy with a quiet smile, composed, independent and affectionate without being clingy.
Daily needs
Weekly brushing, play, watch the weight.
Health & care
Heart (HCM), kidneys, overweight. Testing advised.
Ideal for
Families, apartment, quiet life.
Origin & history
The British Shorthair descends from domestic cats brought to Great Britain by the Romans, which hunted rodents in farms and streets. In the 19th century, British breeders selected the sturdiest for the first feline shows in London. The world wars nearly caused the breed to disappear, saved by crosses notably with the Persian, which gave it its round bone structure and dense coat. Today, it is recognized by its stocky silhouette, its round face, and its famous blue coat, even though many colors exist. It is a calm, composed cat that is very attached to its home.
Frequently asked questions
Is the British Shorthair a cuddly cat?
It is affectionate but not very demonstrative: it enjoys the presence of its owners without demanding to be held or constantly clung to.
Is its maintenance burdensome?
Its short, dense coat requires weekly brushing, increased during the moulting season to limit matting.
Is it suitable for an apartment?
Yes, its calm and homebody temperament adapts very well to indoor life, provided its weight is monitored.
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