Embark on a delightful journey into the world of the Exotic Shorthair cat, a breed that captivates with its plush coat and charming demeanor. Renowned for their round faces and dense fur, Exotic Shorthairs are not just a marvel of feline beauty but also a testament to affectionate companionship.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore every facet of caring for an Exotic Shorthair, from understanding their unique physical traits and personality to mastering their care and grooming. Whether you’re a seasoned Exotic Shorthair owner or considering adopting one of these endearing felines, this guide promises to enrich your knowledge and deepen your bond with these adorable cats.
Table of contents
Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed
The Exotic Shorthair is only a half-century-old cat breed. People call it ‘The lazy man’s Persian cat’ because resembles the Persian cat breed. Just their difference in the coat length. The Exotic Shorthair is a short-coated breed. They’re considered Short-haired Persians.
However, Exotic Shorthairs have similarities with the Persian breed in many ways. The Shorthair cat also has a flat face and snub nose just like the Persian cats. Medium-sized cats also are very sweet in nature. They’re the offspring of a Persian cat, a British Shorthair cat, an American Shorthair cat, a Russian Blue, and a Burmese cat. The breed originated in the United States.
Breed specialty of the Exotic Shorthair cat
Other names:
The Lazyman’s Persian
Personality:
Friendly, affectionate, loyal, sweet, low-energy, less active, and playful.
Body height:
10-12 inches
Body weight:
Up to 15 pounds
Body length:
Up to 30 inches
Coat length:
Shorthair
Coat patterns:
Bi-color, Colorpoint, Calico/ Tri-color, Solid, Tabby, Pointed, and Tortoiseshell.
Coat colors:
Himalayan, Bi-color, Smoke, Black, White, Golden, Silver, Chocolate, Brown, Cinnamon, Lavender, Fawn, Blue, Grey, Red, Orange, and so on.
Eye colors:
Green, Blue, and Gold.
Good with: Children and other pets
Maintenance:
High
Intelligence:
Medium
Shedding level:
Infrequent
Tendency to vocalize:
Low
Lifespan:
Up to 15 years
Hypoallergenic:
Some people have allergies to dander and furry animals. For those people all cats are Hypoallergenic.
Origin:
The United States
Exotic Shorthair kittens
I’m sure if you go to purchase an Exotic Shorthair kitten, you can’t return home without having one because the kittens are very much beautiful, sweet, and cute. Actually, their snub noses made them so cute and sweet.
But one thing you need to know before adopting an Exotic Shorthair kitten and- their Snub noses and flat faces are responsible for some health issues such as respiratory problems and eye problems and even expensive surgeries. That means you have to go on vet trips more than the other breeds.
The origin of the Exotic Shorthair Cat breed
The Exotic Shorthairs are the most coveted cats so far. The breed was developed in the 1950s. A breeding program was conducted by crossing Persian, American Shorthair, British Shorthair, Russian Blue, and Burmese cats. The Cat Fancier’s Association’s (CFA) goal was to create a Silver-coated American Shorthair cat that resembles Persian cats.
There was a breeder, named Jane Martinke who could understand the potential of the new breed in the 1960s and petitioned the American Cat Fancier’s Association (ACFA) to give the recognition in 1967.
The International Cat Association (TICA) also recognized the breed in 1979. As the Persian breed was used in the breeding program, more coat patterns and colors came out. The Tabby and Orange Exotic Shorthair began to appear.
Gradually, other cat registries recognized Exotic Shorthair as a separate breed.
- In 1967, CFA gave the championship status to the Exotic Shorthair cat breed.
- In 1971, the Exotic Shorthair gain the grand championship.
- In 1986, the Federation Nationale Feline recognized the breed.
- In 1991, an Exotic Shorthair became the Cat of the Year of CFA.
- In 1992, an Exotic kitten became the Kitten of the Year of CFA.
Nowadays, the Exotic Shorthair breed is one of the most laid-back, adorable, and coveted kitties.
The appearance of the breed- Exotic Shorthair Cat
Except for the coat length, the Exotic Shorthairs and Persian cats have the same appearance. The Exotic Shorthairs have the same flat faces, flat noses, small ears, and short and wide legs. The coats are dense, plush, and short.
The breed is caring for a short skull and large eyes, rounded head, and short and wide tails. They have a variety of coat colors and patterns. The coat colors are Himalayan, Bi-color, Smoke, Black, White, Golden, Silver, Chocolate, Brown, Cinnamon, Lavender, Fawn, Blue, Grey, Red, Orange, and so on.
The coat patterns are Bi-color, Colorpoint, Calico/ Tri-color, Solid, Tabby, Pointed, and Tortoiseshell. Their Body height is 10-12 inches, Body weight is up to 15 pounds, and Body length is up to 30 inches. The traditional Exotic Shorthairs have longer noses than the extreme Exotics. Both of the patterns have a bold and robust building of bodies.
The temperament and nature of the Exotic Shorthair Cat breed
The Exotic Shorthairs are not couch potatoes like their Persian ancestors. They love to play with toys but after the play session, they like their owner’s lap. They are medium-active and love to play chase the ball.
Besides, they vocalize only when they need something, especially at the dinner time. They have a very sweet and mellow vocalizing. The breed is also very sweet, calm, and polite in nature. They are devoted to their families but may pull their noses if a stranger came to them. You have to gain their trust first then you can get their friendship.
They are not fond of toddlers but they’re friendly to big children and other pets. If you train them early then they will share their home with other pets and dogs. However, they are very affectionate to their families but don’t require a lot of attention, interaction, and stimulation. Their personality makes them very good pets for all kinds of people and even for first-time owners. The Exotic Shorthairs are always relaxed cat breeds and love a quiet, calm, and mellow family.
exotic shorthair cat Caring and grooming
The short-coated cats need minimal grooming for their coats. Just one-time weekly brushing is more than enough for them. They shed very low but once a year their dense under-coat may shed fully, you need to brush their coat more at that time. You can give them a bath once a week.
As they come with flat faces and snub noses you have to take special care of their eyes and noses. Clean their watery eyes and snub noses daily with soft and wet cotton. Otherwise, your sweet and cute kitty will face eye problems.
You also need to brush your teeth daily. It is very important for all cats. Trim their nails after every day as you know that furry animals have scratch and attacking habits.
As the breed is not so playful so you don’t need to provide many interactive toys to them. Just balls, food puzzles, a few interactive toys, and teasers are enough for them. They’re very to be indoors. So, you need not be worried about that what will happen to your cat if they go outside.
Exercise for Exotic Shorthair cat
You better spare some time for your Exotic’s exercise daily to ensure that your kitty gets enough exercise to avoid obesity. Provide with them balls, food puzzles, a few interactive toys, and teasers. They love to play daily. So, complete the exercise by playing.
The breed is most active at dawn and dusk. So, arrange the exercise at that time. But do not engage them more in the summer season as they have breathing issues.
Some cat breeds don’t like training. They prefer to take a nap rather. Your Exotic Shorthair doesn’t fall in this category. They love to play to learn new tricks.
I have talked to so many breeders and animal experts. They prefer to start training the kitten-hood because to teach something a youngster is easier. So, teach your kitty to walk on a leash, use the litter box, and respond to their name-calling, come, go, sit, stop, have food, etc.
Living needs of the Exotic Shorthair Cat breed
The Exotic Shorthair kittens aren’t worried about the living places, they focus on the owners and families. They’re happy with both big houses and apartment culture. They just need the company and love of their families. They love to play so you can provide them with some interactive toys and a play-mate kitty if you stay out for a long period of time.
Provide with them a special cat bed for deep sleep. You also can give them a big window pad so that they can spy on the outside views and the birds. Provide with them also- a shedding comb or de-matting comb with wide teeth and length to remove the undercoat, a slicker brush to remove dander and dirt, and a flea comb to stripe away the flyaway hairs.
Health and problems of the Exotic Shorthair cat breed
The Exotic Shorthair breed is very prone to health issues due to various reasons. Some reasons are for their flat faces and noses and some are common problems. I will tell you all one by one.
- Obesity:
A very common problem among cats and Exotic Shorthairs as well. It is because of over-feeding, advancing age, and lack of exercise and activities.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD):
This problem is very common in the Persian and British Shorthair breed. Both are the descendants of the Exotic Shorthair breed so, the breed is also prone to it. If your cat suffers from increased thirst and urination, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, leatheriness, and not using the litterbox.
- Eye disorder:
Most Exotic Shorthairs have eye problems such as Cherry-eye, Entropion. These issues need surgical correction to get rid of. Entropion is such a serious issue that other problems are minor to it.
The other problems are excessive tearing and Progressive retinal atrophy. The Symptoms of Entropion are- Pinkish or Reddish eyes, Irritation, Dry eyes, difficulty closing eyes, and inflammation of the Cornia.
More Health and problems of the Exotic Shorthair cat breed
- Breathing problems or Upper respiratory tract infections:
The Exotic Shorthair breed comes with a very short nose and flat face. So, their narrow nostrils and small windpipes. The problems cause cat flu, running nose, watery eyes, fever, drooling, and gagging.
- Skin issues:
The Exotics have the same skin issues as the Persian cats. A proper diet and grooming can help your cat to get rid of it. If your cat chews or lick its coat, scratches, Redness, loss of furs, and bald patches are seen on the skin then your cat has skin problems.
- Bladder stones:
If your cat feels the pain to urinate and urinates outside the litter box then it is a Bladder stone problem. This is a very common problem song cats. If the stone size is small to medium then it could be demolished by laser treatment but if the stone size is big then surgery is a must. Take your cat to the vet for a check-up and diagnosis of the Oxalate Bladder Stone.
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome:
Breathing problem among Exotic Shorthair cats is very common. It is one kind of heart disease.
- Hypertrophic Cardio Myopathy (HCM):
When the heart wall and veins get thick and obstruct generating and circulating blood, it is called HCM. a prevalent and serious disease among cats.
- Dental issues:
Pain and inflammation of the gums, mouth injuries, and pawing at the mouth- are the symptoms of Dental issues. There is no alternative to the daily teeth brushing of your cat. Dental health is very important for all cats.
- Separation anxiety:
The Exotic Shorthair cats are very attached to their owners and they need a lot of attention. So, they feel anxious to get separated from their owners. So, make a schedule that all the members of your family will give company to the kitty by turns. And if it is not possible then keep 2 kitties so that they can accompany each other.
Take your cat to the veterinarian for a regular check-up after every 6 months.
- Hip Dysplasia:
One kind of arthritis in the hip joints give a lot of pain.
- Shedding:
The Exotic Shorthair breed shed infrequently. Though Persian cats shed a lot their descendants Exotic Shorthairs shed moderately. They shed medium only in the Spring season.
- Lifespan:
The Exotic Shorthair cats live generally 15 years but the lifecycle can be extended if better care is taken.
Food and nutrition tips for Exotic Shorthair cat
There are so many kittens and cat food available in the market. Many exotic cats and kittens need special diets and nutrition. Ask the breeder or shelter from where you have got the kitten what kind of food they fed the kitty. If they’re willing to show you then you can follow them and feed your kitty the same food.
If you have decided to switch to other food then ask the vet and switch within a week. Wet food always help your kitty to get rid of kidney and urinary issues. Try to avoid over-feeding your cat because over-feeding is the reason for obesity and Diabetes.
Never provide with them more calcium-riched food. It causes to grow stone on Kidny and Bladder. Maintain a special kibble for feeding your Exotic Shorthair cats as they have flat faces. Normal kibbles will make obstacles to eating your cat from the kibble. Maintain a measurement cup and feed them according to their size, age, and activity. Provide them with fresh and clean water daily.
Males VS Females of the Exotic Shorthair Cat breed:
Every animal is different from one another and it is the creation of the almighty God that there are some differences in males and females. So, the divine rule is equally true about cats. The male Exotic Shorthairs are a bit larger than the females. They also are always devoted and affectionate to their owners and families.
On the contrary, female Exotics are smaller than male cats. They’re also devoted and affectionate to their owners and families but they are very moody. So, when they’re in their mood, they may not be so dedicated and devoted. When you have gone to purchase or adopt an Exotic Shorthair, I suggest you adopt the opposite of your desired gender.
Wait, let me be clear. I mean to say that, if you have thought to have a male Exotic then you should choose a female. Similarly, if you have decided to have a female, then please choose a male. Why am I saying this? It is because you can be an ideal human parent if you have a pet opposite to your deserving gender.
Some facts about the Exotic Shorthair cat
- The Exotic Shorthair’s other name is ‘ The lazy man’s Persian.’ The Persian cats are high-maintenance cats because of their undercoats. There are some people who desire to have a Persian but they’re not ready to take the hassle of maintaining a Persian because they’re lazy. So, the breed Exotic Shorthair was created. Thus, those lazy people can enjoy the beauty of Persian with low grooming. The breed was named ‘The lazy man’s Persian.’
- The Exotic Shorthair’s have a huge range of colors and coat patterns. They are available in almost 96 colors and 21 patterns.
- The Exotic Shorthair cats suffer from separation anxiety. As the breed is very affectionate and attached to their family, especially, with theri owners, they don’t want to separate from them. The cats can’t be left alone for a long period of time and feel anxious to get separated.
- One of the most famous and popular Cartoon cat characters is Garfield. He is the lasagna (A sweet Italian sausage) loving and Sarcastic. Though Garfield was a breed of his own and his characteristic are different in some cases but he is considered an Exotic Shorthair.
- There is another famous Exotic Shorthair cat, named Ferguson. It is Winton’s beloved cat in ‘New Girl.’ Ferguson is an Exotic Shorthair Tabby.
- The Exotic Shorthair breed’s previous name was Sterling because of its beautiful Silver coats but the name was changed to Exotic Shorthair.
Breed overview of the Exotic Shorthair Cat
The Exotic Shorthairs are the short-haired version of the Persian cat breed. Exotics have a short, silky, and plush coat without an undercoat. It is a low-maintenance, sweet, calm, affectionate, devoted, friendly, and indoor cat.
It originated from a Persian cat, a British Shorthair cat, an American Shorthair cat, a Russian Blue, and a Burmese cat. And, it has the same looks as Persian cats- a flat face and snub nose.
Their Body height is 10-12 inches, Body weight is up to 15 pounds, and Body length is up to 30 inches. The Exotic Shorthair’s have a huge range of colors and coat patterns. They are available in almost 96 colors and 21 patterns. The breed originated in the USA.
How to have an Exotic Shorthair cat?
Note some things that-
- Reputed and trusted breeders don’t have kitties available all the time.
- Exotic Shorthair kittens are difficult to find but the adult cats are easier to get.
- Real breeders never ask you to pay online.
- When you will go for adoption or purchase the real authorities will ask so many questions about your family, your lifestyle, your residing area, and the size and environment of your house.
- They will also give you a clear concept about your deserving pet.
Though Exotic Shorthairs are not so available in shelters and rescue groups you can ask there. If need, then wait for some time. Who knows that an Exotic Shorthair needs you?
Please check the website of the Cat Fancier’s Association (CFA), The International Cat Association (TICA), and other prominent cat registries. They publish lists of trusted and reputed breeders list with contact details.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Training and Exercise
Training and exercise are crucial for the well-being of an Exotic Shorthair cat. Despite their laid-back nature, these cats enjoy playful activities that stimulate their minds and keep them physically fit. Training Exotic Shorthair kittens can be both fun and rewarding, as they are intelligent and responsive to positive reinforcement. Engage them with interactive toys and games that challenge their hunting instincts and provide mental stimulation.
Exercise is not only about physical activity; it’s also about mental engagement. Puzzle feeders, cat trees, and safe outdoor enclosures can help fulfill their natural curiosities. Regular play sessions will not only keep your Exotic Shorthair healthy but also deepen the bond between you and your pet. Remember, a well-exercised and mentally stimulated Exotic Shorthair is a happy and contented companion.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Physical Characteristics
The physical characteristics of the Exotic Shorthair cat are a delightful blend of its Persian and American Shorthair lineage. These cats are known for their round, brachycephalic faces, large, expressive eyes, and small, rounded ears that give them an eternally youthful appearance. Their plush, short coat is one of their most distinctive features, requiring regular grooming to maintain its luxurious texture.
Despite their compact and sturdy build, Exotic Shorthairs are surprisingly agile and active. The breed comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, adding to their visual appeal. Their physical attributes contribute to their charm and require specific care, particularly in grooming and maintaining a healthy weight. Understanding and catering to their physical needs are essential for keeping your Exotic Shorthair in optimal health.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Health and Lifespan
The health and lifespan of an Exotic Shorthair cat are vital considerations for any potential owner. These cats generally enjoy good health, with a lifespan ranging from 12 to 15 years, and sometimes longer with proper care. Like all breeds, they have specific health issues to which they are predisposed, such as respiratory problems due to their brachycephalic faces and potential for dental malocclusions.
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper grooming are essential for preventing and managing health concerns. A diet tailored to their needs, considering their propensity for weight gain, is crucial for maintaining their health. Providing a safe, stimulating, and loving environment is key to ensuring a long and happy life for your Exotic Shorthair cat.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Socialization
Socialization plays a significant role in shaping the personality and behavior of an Exotic Shorthair cat. These cats are generally friendly and enjoy the company of humans and other pets. Early socialization is crucial, especially for kittens, as it helps them develop into well-adjusted adults. Introduce them to various environments, sounds, and people to build their confidence.
Positive social experiences are essential for preventing behavioral issues and enhancing their sociable nature. Regular playtime and affection will encourage their loving and gentle temperament. Remember, every cat is unique, and respecting their individual personalities during the socialization process is important for their well-being.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Maintenance and Safety
Caring for an Exotic Shorthair cat involves understanding and addressing their specific maintenance and safety needs. Their plush coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and reduce shedding. This breed is prone to tear staining, so daily face cleaning is essential. Due to their brachycephalic nature, monitoring their respiratory health is crucial.
Creating a safe indoor environment is vital, as their curious nature can lead them into trouble. Regular health check-ups and vaccinations are necessary to keep them healthy. Additionally, a balanced diet and exercise routine are key to preventing obesity, a common issue in the breed. Providing a loving home with appropriate care will ensure your Exotic Shorthair cat thrives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Exotic Shorthair cat is a wonderful companion, offering the best of both worlds with its Persian elegance and American Shorthair playfulness. Their endearing appearance, coupled with a loving and gentle personality, makes them an ideal pet for many. Understanding their unique needs in terms of grooming, health, socialization, and overall care is crucial for their well-being. Whether you’re already an owner or considering adopting an Exotic Shorthair, this guide provides the foundation for a rewarding and loving relationship with these charming cats. Embrace the joys of life with an Exotic Shorthair cat, and enjoy the unique companionship they offer.
