Exotic Shorthair
Overview
Often called the “lazy person’s Persian” — the same calm, sweet nature in an easier-to-groom short coat.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Exotic Shorthair is affectionate and good with children. They tend to be very quiet and copes with some time alone. 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 Exotic 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 Exotic 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
- +Placid, gentle and affectionate without the daily brushing of a Persian
- +Quiet and undemanding — a relaxed companion for a calm home
Things to consider
- –Shares the Persian’s flat (brachycephalic) face, with related breathing and eye care needs
- –Low activity means it can gain weight without play and portion control
Is a Exotic Shorthair right for you?
A Exotic Shorthair tends to be copes with some time alone and 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 cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a Exotic Shorthair
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are Exotic 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 Exotic Shorthairs affectionate?
Affectionate. Exotic Shorthairs typically love close company and lap time.
Are Exotic Shorthairs vocal?
Very quiet. They are generally quiet and undemanding about it.
How much grooming does a Exotic Shorthair need?
Easy-care; shedding is moderate. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can Exotic Shorthairs be left alone?
Copes with some time alone. They manage some time alone but appreciate company and enrichment.
Are Exotic Shorthairs energetic or playful?
Low energy. They are fairly laid-back and happy to relax, though they still enjoy short play sessions.