British Shorthair
Overview
An easygoing, dignified and undemanding breed with a plush coat — affectionate on its own terms rather than a clingy lap cat.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a British Shorthair is moderately affectionate and good with children. They tend to be quiet and fairly self-reliant. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A British Shorthair is generally low energy. They are fairly laid-back and happy to relax, but still enjoy short, regular play sessions to stay fit and engaged.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is easy-care and shedding is moderate. The coat is generally easy to care for; an occasional brush keeps it tidy and cuts down loose hair. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a British Shorthair should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Calm, even-tempered and tolerant — copes well with being left alone
- +Quiet and low-drama, a relaxed fit for busy or first-time owners
Things to consider
- –Often prefers sitting beside you to being picked up or held
- –Prone to weight gain, so needs portion control and play to stay fit
Is a British Shorthair right for you?
A British Shorthair tends to be fairly self-reliant and moderately affectionate. They generally cope with the rhythms of a typical home, though no cat should be left alone for very long. If you want a more independent housemate, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a British Shorthair
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are British Shorthairs good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are British Shorthairs affectionate?
Moderately affectionate. British Shorthairs enjoy attention but also like their own space.
Are British Shorthairs vocal?
Quiet. They are generally quiet and undemanding about it.
How much grooming does a British Shorthair need?
Easy-care; shedding is moderate. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can British Shorthairs be left alone?
Fairly self-reliant. They cope comparatively well with some time alone, though no cat should be left for very long.
Are British Shorthairs energetic or playful?
Low energy. They are fairly laid-back and happy to relax, though they still enjoy short play sessions.