Exotic Shorthair Breed Guide

Exotic Shorthairs resemble Persians except for their short, dense coat. This breed's compact body, round head and face, small round ears, large round eyes, short nose, short tail, and plush coat give it a teddy bear-like appearance. Cats of this breed are occasionally born with long hair and called, logically enough, Exotic Longhairs. Many colors and patterns are recognized, including white, black, cream, chocolate, blue, several gold and silver variations, a few tortoiseshell variations, and more.

Cats of this breed have a strong ability to keep themselves entertained. They sit around for extended periods watching birds outside or water dripping from a faucet, or just figuring out how to get a potential toy down off a high shelf.

These cats also have much in common with their Persian relatives in terms of personality. They are quiet, peaceful, and easygoing. Because they take things in stride, they do well around children and other pets, and they are affectionate with human family members. This is especially true of males, while females are more independent. Exotic Shorthairs have more health concerns than many other breeds.

The Exotic Shorthair is referred to as "the lazy man's Persian." A Persian's high-maintenance coat is widely regarded as its main drawback. Exotic Shorthairs look and act like Persians, but their coats require far less grooming and upkeep.

Exotic Shorthairs are laid back and are generally unconcerned with the goings-on around them. They are sweet and loving lap cats, often in the mood for affection. They appreciate attention, but usually prefer calm interactions. These cats are given to following their favorite person around when a lap is unavailable.

The American Shorthair influence has made these cats a little more inquisitive and playful than Persians. Exotic Shorthairs definitely undertake active play sometimes. They particularly enjoy chasing a ball of paper or pouncing at a dangling temptation.

Exotic Shorthairs coexist peacefully with children and other animals but are shy around strangers. They hide initially, but if visitors stick around long enough, these cats begin to investigate them from afar, slowly moving in closer, and eventually warming up to them.

Exotic Shorthairs are prone to a few more health problems than other breeds, in part due to their genetic makeup and in part due to their pushed-in facial structure. They mature later than most other breeds, too. The advantage is a bigger window for spaying and neutering without encountering problems associated with a sexually mature adult.

This breed has a genetic predisposition to some urinary tract problems, including polycystic kidney disease. This condition causes kidney dysfunction and can lead to kidney failure. Kittens and parents can be screened for this disorder, so breeders should provide evidence of testing. Exotic Shorthairs are also more prone to the formation of calcium oxylate stones in the urinary tract.

Their flat faces can cause breathing problems for Exotic Shorthairs. They are at heightened risk in the heat and during physical activity. They need air conditioning during hot weather. Breathing problems may also interfere with sleep and stressful situations can trigger respiratory distress.

Exotic Shorthairs are smart and curious, readily learning games and tricks. They have to be in the right mood to play along, though. If it's not the right time, they make it known simply by ignoring attempts at training. These cats are true pacifists.

Indulge the moods of Exotic Shorthairs for strong relationships. They seek attention with a sweet look and patience, rather than vocalizations or aggressive behavior. Provide a lap or shoulder when they want it, but don't be pushy when they're on their own or quietly observing something. Some individuals like to sleep with humans and others don't. When their wishes are respected, these cats are equally respectful of human moods and privacy.

Cats of this breed have a strong ability to keep themselves entertained. They sit around for extended periods watching birds outside or water dripping from a faucet, or just figuring out how to get a potential toy down off a high shelf. Still, interaction is important, and puzzle toys are a good source of stimulation.

Exotic Shorthairs have a short coat that doesn't mat or tangle, making them extremely low-maintenance pets. Combing with a stainless steel comb once or twice per week suffices. These cats shed moderately, and more during spring and autumn shedding seasons. Comb more often during these times to remove loose and dead hair.

Brushing the teeth regularly keeps breath fresh and reduces the risk of periodontal disease. Nails should be trimmed as needed, usually three times per month. Look in the ears weekly for wax accumulation, dirtiness, foreign matter, and signs of infection. Use an ear-cleansing product on an as-needed basis.

The Exotic Shorthair's snubbed face is associated with excessive eye tearing. To prevent unattractive tear stains, gently wipe the face with a wet washcloth every day or two, paying particular attention to the area beneath the eyes.

In the 1950s, American Shorthair breeders sought to transfer the coveted silver hair and green eyes of Persians to their cats via crossbreeding. The entire Persian look carried over far more than intended, but the results were pleasing. Breeders realized they created a Persian-like cat with a much more manageable coat.

Not yet recognized as a new breed, these cats did well in shows and won fans. However, a faction of American Shorthair enthusiasts was opposed to what hybridization was doing to their favorite breed, and they fought to disallow Exotic Shorthairs. Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) judge Jane Martinke led efforts to reclassify these cats to appease these concerns.

Thus, the Exotic Shorthair was born in 1967. Development was slow, with many breeders refusing to reclassify their cats and many Persian breeders refusing mating access to their cats in pursuit of the new breed. Exotic breeders brought in Burmese and Russian Blues for the shorthair gene, using them as minimally as possible. The breed gradually became more accepted, and in 1987, the CFA banned outcrossing.

Exotic Shorthairs became officially recognized by the CFA in 1967, kicking off real development of the breed.