British Shorthair Breed

Content

Breed History
Breed Appearance – British Shorthair Cats
Health
Care
Interaction with Humans
Temperament – Friendly and Calm
Diet
British Shorthair Kittens
British Cat at Shows
Breeding
Are-British-Cats-the-Right-Breed-for-You
How Much Does a British Shorthair Cat Cost?

Breed History

The British Shorthair cat (British Shorthair, English cat) has a rich and long history, considered one of the oldest known cat breeds in the world. Its roots go back to the Roman Empire, where it is believed that Roman soldiers brought cats from Egypt to Great Britain to protect stored grains from rodents. Over the centuries, these cats naturally bred with Britain’s domestic cats, developing into the robust, adaptable, and distinctive breed known today as the British Shorthair.

In the 19th century, with the rise in popularity of cat shows, the British Shorthair cat became one of the first breeds to be formally recognized and exhibited. In 1871, the British blue cat was first exhibited at the Crystal Palace in London. Their popularity increased thanks to their charming appearance and friendly temperament. Despite a decline in numbers during World Wars I and II, breeders continued to work on preserving and improving the breed, leading to the variety of colors and patterns we see today. At that time, British cats were crossed with Persian cats to improve quality and achieve today’s standard; now, such crossing with Persian cats is strictly prohibited. Today, the British Shorthair cat is one of the most beloved and widespread cat breeds worldwide, valued for its beauty, intelligence, and friendly character.

In 2015, the British Longhair cats were preliminarily recognized.

Breed Appearance – British Shorthair Cats

Body – Medium to Large Size

The body of the British Shorthair cat is robust, medium to large, and exudes an impression of strength and solidity. This breed is known for its muscularity and rounded contours, giving them a characteristic plush appearance. The body is well-proportioned with short, strong legs and broad chests, providing the cat with stability and agility. The short and dense fur adds volume to their appearance, making them appear larger than they are. Every British Shorthair cat must have short muscular backs, broad shoulders, a deep chest, a round, large head with a broad jaw, and a muscular neck.

Nose – Small and Unpronounced

The nose of the British Shorthair cat is usually small and unobtrusive, often nestled among dense cheeks that give the cat its characteristic rounded appearance. In line with the other rounded features of the face, the nose of this breed is broad and short, with a slight downward curvature. This feature contributes to the overall appearance of the British Shorthair cat as a calm and friendly animal.

Despite its small size, the nose of the British Shorthair cat is very functional, providing the cat with an excellent sense of smell. Like all cats, the nose is important for interacting with the environment, allowing them to detect food, sense danger, and communicate with other cats. Regular cleaning and checking of the nose are important for maintaining the health of the cat, especially since they can be prone to allergies and respiratory issues. Gentle and careful care of the nose helps maintain the health and well-being of your pet.

Eyes – round and large

The eyes of the British Shorthair cat are one of its most recognizable and beloved attributes. British Shorthair cats have round and large eyes. Kittens are born with blue eyes, which later take on their true color and remain so for the rest of their lives. In older age, cats’ eyes gradually lose color and fade. British Shorthair cats of solid colors always have orange eyes. Sometimes, especially during shedding seasons like spring and autumn, cats of this breed may develop tears or secretions around the eyes that need to be carefully cleaned.

Tail – thick and short

The tail of the British Shorthair cat is one of its characteristic attributes that contributes to its firm and rounded appearance. This tail is usually short to medium in length, thick at the base, and tapers gradually towards the top. The tail is covered with dense and plush fur, similar to the rest of the body, giving it a robust appearance. British Shorthair cats use their tail for balance and communication, and its shape and size are in line with the proportions of the body of this breed. The thick and short tail adds an impression of strength and steadfastness to the British Shorthair cat, making it one of the most recognizable and beloved cat breeds in the world.

Fur – short and dense

Various fur colors

British Shorthair cats come in a wide range of fur colors and patterns. Common colors include blue, black, white, red, cream, chocolate, and lilac, as well as various tabby and spotted patterns. The classic blue color, in particular, is highly valued, giving the cats a distinctive appearance. The fur of the British Shorthair cat is dense, soft, and provides good resistance against weather conditions. The color of the eyes also varies, but most often matches the fur color, giving the cat a harmonious appearance. The variety of colors and patterns makes each British Shorthair cat unique and attractive, whether it’s solid, bicolor, or even tricolor combinations.

What are the common fur colors?

Common fur colors of the British Shorthair cat vary from solid shades to complex patterns and combinations. One of the most popular and recognizable colors is British blue, a dense gray color with a plush feel. As it was very similar to the Chartreux cat, these two breeds were often crossed. Besides blue, common colors include black, white, red, cream, chocolate, and various silver and golden shades. Tabby and spotted cats are also common, with patterns varying from finely etched lines to broad stripes and blotches. Eye color usually matches the fur color, adding an extra appeal to these elegant cats. With proper care and diet, the fur colors of the British Shorthair cat remain bright and vibrant throughout the cat’s life.

Ears – Small and Rounded

One of the sweetest features of the British Shorthair cat is its small and rounded ears. Positioned on a broad and massive head, the ears of this breed give them a distinctive and attractive look. They are widely set and well-integrated into the rounded cheeks, contributing to the overall impression of strength and stability these cats exude. The fur covering the ears is short and dense in texture, consistent with the rest of their body, making them soft to the touch. Owners should be aware of the need for regular examination and cleaning of the ears to prevent infections and ensure overall health.

Colors – Wide Variety of Colors and Patterns

British cats come in a large number of different colors and patterns, from solid colors where the most famous color is blue, through black, red, cream, chocolate, lilac, cinnamon, fawn, white.

They are recognized in all colors – solid, smoke, patterns – tabby, ticked, tipped, combinations with white – bicolor, harlequin, and van, silver – silver, golden, and with markings – pointed.

In solid colors, each hair must be uniformly colored along its entire length, except for tabby, silver, and marked ones where each color carries its amount of whiteness on each hair – e.g., 1/3 or 2/3 whiteness on the hair.

Although a large number of colors and patterns are recognized, in our cattery, we have opted for solid colors – blue, cream, white, chocolate, red, black, lilac, fawn, and cinnamon, including all those colors including white – mainly bicolor.

Health

The British Shorthair cat is a strong and muscular cat, heavy-boned and broad-chested. They are well-balanced and have good coordination. They have a strong immune system and are resistant to most diseases. They are also less prone to obesity than other cat breeds. The health of British Shorthair cats is largely due to their strong build and immunity.

The British cat is generally a healthy breed of cats with few health problems. They are an excellent choice for families looking for a healthy pet. However, it is important to note that a cat’s health can be affected by its diet and environment.

The most common health problems of British Shorthair cats include respiratory issues, heart diseases, kidney diseases, and cancer. As breeders, we pay a lot of attention to the health of our cats. All our breeding cats are obtained from reputable catteries with complete medical documentation and are fully healthy.

While kittens are small and playful, there is a possibility of poisoning from open houseplants that kittens may nibble on during play, while adult cats generally do not do this.

The British Shorthair cat is considered a long-lived breed, and with proper diet and care, the expected lifespan is between 14 and 20 years.

Care

Grooming the British Shorthair cat is relatively simple due to their short, dense, and plush fur. These cats require regular brushing, about once a week, to remove dead hair and maintain the fur in good condition. Brushing also helps reduce shedding and prevent the formation of hair knots, especially in older cats that may not be able to maintain themselves as clean. During spring and autumn, when cats typically shed more, more frequent brushing may be necessary.

They do not need to be bathed. Nails need to be trimmed from time to time, as although house cats wear down their nails on scratchers, this is not enough to fully maintain the nails. We teach our kittens to trim their nails as part of socialization, so new adopters do not need to go to the vet but can trim the nails themselves.

Interaction with Humans

The British Shorthair cat is known for its good temperament and often forms strong bonds with its human families. This breed of cat is known for its calm nature, making them excellent pets for homes and apartments. British Shorthair cats are usually very adaptable and can get along well with children and other pets if properly socialized. They are also independent and do not require as much attention as some other breeds, but still enjoy attention, love, and companionship with people.

Towards people, these cats are usually very kind and tolerant. They like to be around their owners and participate in household activities. Their intelligence and affable character make them excellent companions who can provide years of entertainment, love, and companionship. Owners should dedicate time to play and interact with their British Shorthair cats to encourage their mental and physical health, as well as strengthen the mutual bond.

We as breeders pay great attention to the socialization of kittens and teach them order and behavior both in the house with family members and with each other.

Temperament – Friendly and Calm

The British Shorthair cat is known for its friendly and calm temperament, making them ideal pets. These cats are often described as independent, but at the same time, they enjoy the company of their human family members. Their calmness does not mean they are inactive; they enjoy playing and exploring their environment, but are generally less demanding in terms of attention than some other cat breeds. The British Shorthair cat is also known for being very intelligent and can often adapt to different living situations and homes.

The breed is also known for its loyalty and can be very devoted to its owners. Despite their independence, British Shorthair cats appreciate quality time spent with the family, whether it’s quiet companionship on the couch or playing. Their balanced character makes them suitable for various homes, including those with children and other pets, as long as they are properly socialized. They get along well with other animals. With proper care and attention, the British Shorthair cat can provide years of joy, good entertainment, and companionship as a valued family member.

If you are looking for a cuddly cat full of love that will sit next to you on the couch and follow you around the apartment, this is the perfect breed for you. This obedient breed is known for its even temperament and gentle nature, making them ideal companions for people of all ages.

Diet

Proper nutrition is key to maintaining the health and well-being of the British Shorthair cat. Like all cats, it is necessary to provide a balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. British Shorthair cats are prone to obesity, so it is important to monitor their weight and the amount of food consumed. If the diet is not varied and appropriate, obesity can become a problem. Quality commercial food specially formulated for British Shorthair cats can provide all the necessary nutrients, but you should always consult with a breeder or veterinarian about the best diet plan for your pet.

Fresh, clean water should always be available, especially if the cat is fed dry food. Cats usually prefer running water, so a fountain may be necessary. For British Shorthair kittens, it is important to provide food that supports their rapid growth and development. As the British Shorthair cat ages, its dietary needs may change, so it is important to conduct regular veterinary checks to ensure the diet remains appropriate. Treats are not necessary but can occasionally be given as a reward or snack. With proper diet, regular exercise, and love, your British Shorthair cat can enjoy a long and healthy life.

British Shorthair Kittens

British Shorthair kittens are irresistibly cute with their rounded shapes, large eyes, and plush fur. From a young age, these kittens show signs of the temperament characteristic of this breed – they are calm, approachable, and very loving. Like all kittens, it is important to start socializing them with people and, if possible, with other pets from an early age to grow into balanced and happy adult cats.

Owners should start grooming British Shorthair kittens early, including regular brushing to get used to touch and the process. This is also important for maintaining their dense and luxurious fur in the best possible condition. Proper nutrition is key to healthy growth and development of kittens. With proper care and plenty of love, British Shorthair kittens develop into beautiful, stable, and gentle pets.

British Cat at Shows

The British Shorthair cat is a frequent participant at international shows around the world and often wins awards thanks to its outstanding beauty, plush fur, wide range of colors, and expressive round eyes. At shows, British Shorthair cats are known for their dignified behavior and impressive appearance. Judges typically look for cats that well represent the breed standard, including body structure, temperament, and fur quality.

For owners of British Shorthair cats, preparing for a show involves regular brushing and grooming of the fur, as well as ensuring that the cat is in good physical condition. Mental preparation is also crucial, as the cat needs to be calm and approachable in the show environment. Participating in shows can be an exciting experience and an opportunity for owners to share the beauty and unique characteristics of their British Shorthair cats with other cat enthusiasts. Success at shows often brings recognition and respect, highlighting the quality and beauty of the British Shorthair cat as a breed.

Breeding

Breeding British Shorthair cats requires knowledge of and dedication to the breed to ensure the health and well-being of the cats. Each cat within the breeding program should be carefully selected with regard to health, temperament, and conformity to breed standards. The British Shorthair cat is considered a relatively healthy breed, but breeders must be aware of specific health conditions that can affect the breed, including kidney problems and heart diseases.

In addition to health screenings, it is important to maintain a high level of care, including regular brushing, cleaning of ears, paws, and teeth. British Shorthair kittens need to be well-socialized to develop into stable and friendly pets. Breeding British Shorthair cats also involves responsible mating to preserve genetic diversity and prevent the spread of hereditary diseases. Experienced breeders work on preserving and improving the breed, providing each cat with the love, attention, and care needed for a happy and healthy life.

When acquiring a cat, it is advisable to contact professional breeders as this ensures that you get the best specimen of the breed and the characteristics you desire.

Are British Cats the Right Breed for You?

When it comes to finding the right cat breed, many factors need to be considered. One important factor is whether the cat will get along with children. Another consideration is the amount of shedding. Finally, you should consider the lifespan of the cat.

British cats are a good option for those with children as they are known to be very affectionate and good-natured. They also do not shed much, so you won’t have to worry about constantly cleaning furniture and clothing. They typically live for 15-20 years, making them an ideal pet that will bring you joy for many years.

How Much Does a British Shorthair Cat Cost?

When looking for a British cat, it’s important to find a reputable breeder. These cats are not cheap, with prices ranging from 900 to 1200 euros. However, if you’re looking for a cat for show or breeding, the price will be considerably higher. A cat that has won awards and comes from a well-known bloodline can cost over 2000 euros.

Health is also an important factor to consider when purchasing a British cat. While these cats are generally healthy, there are some health conditions that are more common in this breed. Be sure to inquire with the breeder about the health of the kitten’s parents.

Learn more about this popular cat breed and find the perfect companion for yourself and your family. The British Shorthair cat will provide you with years of friendship and joy.

Frequently Asked Questions