Cat breed · Shorthair
British Shorthair
A sturdy, teddy-bear-faced cat that is affectionate on its own terms and dislikes being carried.
Medium13–18 yearsUnited KingdomCan suit apartments
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Shorthair
- Origin
- United Kingdom
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 4–8 kg (9–18 lb)
- Height
- 30–36 cm
- Lifespan
- 13–18 years
- Coat
- Short, dense, crisp
- Temperament
- CalmReservedEasy-goingUndemanding
History
Descended from Roman-era farm cats in Britain and standardised by Victorian breeders.
Appearance
Round face, dense plush coat — the blue-grey variety with copper eyes is best known.
Exercise and activity
Daily play to counter a naturally low activity level.
Care and grooming
Brush weekly, more during moult, and control portions carefully.
Health considerations
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Obesity
- Haemophilia B
- Dental disease