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British Shorthair

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Physical Characteristics

Short, plush coat with a luxurious feel
Not acrobatic or graceful
Larger cat

Temperament

Easy-going, calm, smart, loyal

Medical Conditions

Needs boosters by 12 weeks old
Annual vet visit for checkups is important

While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.

At Home

Always in quiet control of their environment
Constantly supervising everyone and everything in the household
Does best indoors
Prefers to be on the ground
Needs sufficient scratching device
Declawing is not recommended
Kittens are available between 12-16 weeks

Grooming

Trim nails regularly

Other Facts

Even today, most of these fine "Brits" are imported to the United States from England, Ireland, New Zealand and Australia
Often used in films and television commercials because they are easily trained

Breed History

Traces its ancestry back to the domestic cat of Rome
First prized for physical strength and hunting ability
First known as British Blue due to the breed's original color
In the 1950s a wide variety of colors were included under the term British Shorthair

For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Harrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit HCA Rescue

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