If you love cats and are trying to choose between two cute breeds, the Exotic Shorthair and the British Shorthair, what is the difference? People often debate this. At first glance, these cats may look alike because they both have round faces, soft coats, and calm dispositions. But their history, personality, looks, and care needs are very different from each other. Knowing these differences can help you pick the best cat for your home.
Origin and History
Exotic Shorthair
In the 1960s, people in the US crossed Persians with American Shorthairs to make the breed. Breeders wanted to keep the Persian’s sweet, doll-like face but give it a short, thick coat that didn’t need as much grooming. As time went on, these felines became known as a separate breed. People often call them “the Persians with a wash-and-wear coat,” which appeals to cat lovers who like the Persian look but don’t want to have to take care of it as much.
British Shorthair
On the other hand, the British Shorthair has a much older and more interesting history. The breed came from the UK and can be traced back to Roman cats that were brought to Britain hundreds of years ago. British Shorthairs became known for their strong build, soft coats, and classic round features thanks to selective breeding, especially during the Victorian era. The “British Blue” color is the most famous. It has a solid grayish-blue coat and beautiful copper or gold eyes.
Appearance
Exotic Shorthair
These cats have the signature flat face of Persians, giving them that teddy bear, cuddly look. Their coat is dense and plush but stays short, so it’s much easier to manage than a Persian’s. The body is medium-sized, compact, and muscular with short, sturdy legs. Eyes are large and round, usually in shades of blue, green, or copper, depending on coat color.
British Shorthair
The face is round but not flat, with a slightly defined muzzle that gives them a gentle “smiling” expression. Their coat is thick, plush, and smooth to the touch, coming in many colors, though the classic blue-gray is most popular. They have a heavier, more muscular build than Exotics, with strong bones and a solid frame. Eyes are wide-set and round, most commonly copper or gold, though blue and green occur too.
Character and Mood
Personality of Exotic Shorthair
People often call these felines “lap cats.” They love to cuddle, follow their people around, and live in a quiet home. They are playful, but not too hyper. They like to do short bursts of activity before curling up for a nap. They are gentle and loving, and they do best in places where they get a lot of attention.
British Shorthair’s Personality
British Shorthairs are loving but also independent. They are less clingy than Exotics, which makes them a good choice for people who are often away from home. They don’t ask for too much, but they do have strong ties to their families. They are calm, easygoing, and patient, which makes them great with kids and other pets.
Needs for Grooming and Care
- Exotic Shorthair: Their thick, short coat needs to be brushed once a week to keep it from getting tangled and shedding. Because their faces are flat, they are more likely to get tear stains and may need to have their eyes wiped often. Because of how their heads are shaped, they are also more likely to have trouble breathing.
- British Shorthair: Their fur is thick, but you don’t have to do much to keep it clean; brushing it once a week is usually enough. They are less likely to have breathing problems because their faces aren’t flat like Exotics’.
Things to Think About for Your Health
Exotic Shorthair Health: They’re more likely to get diseases common in Persians, like polycystic kidney disease (PKD), breathing issues, and eye problems. For details, see Cornell University’s guide on polycystic kidney disease in cats. Regular vet checkups are important to catch issues early.
Health of British Shorthairs: They’re generally healthy, but their stocky build means they can gain weight easily if overfed. They may also develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). For details, see Cornell University’s guide on HCM in cats.
Life expectancy
If you take good care of an Exotic Shorthair, it can live for 12 to 15 years.
British Shorthair: 12 to 20 years, and they often live longer than Exotics because they have fewer genetic health problems.
Price and Availability
- Exotic Shorthair: It can be very expensive because it is descended from Persian cats. Prices range from $1,200 to $5,000, depending on the lineage and the breeder’s reputation.
- British Shorthairs: They are also a high-end breed. Depending on their color, pedigree, and breeder, they usually cost between $1,000 and $4,000.
What Kind of Cat Is Right for You?
Your lifestyle is a big factor in choosing the best feline:
- If you want a cuddly lap cat that looks like a Persian but doesn’t need as much grooming, get an Exotic Shorthair. Be ready for health problems that could come up because of their flat face.
- If you want a cat that is independent but also loves you, doesn’t need a lot of grooming, and is generally healthier, get a British Shorthair. They are great for families with kids or more than one pet.
- Both breeds are loving pets, but the best one for you depends on whether you want a cat that is more laid-back and clingy (Exotic) or one that is calm and independent (British).
Final Thoughts
The main differences between Exotic and British Shorthairs in “What’s the Difference?” are how they look, how healthy they are, and how they behave. These felines are loving lap cats with Persian traits, but they need extra care. British Shorthairs are strong, low-maintenance, and independent, making them great pets for busy families or people. In the end, either breed will make your home warmer, friendlier, and more charming.
FAQs
1. Which breed is more fun to play with?
Exotic Shorthairs like to play for short periods of time, but they would rather relax. When they are young, British Shorthairs can be playful, but as they get older, they tend to calm down.
2. Are these cats good for people who have never owned a cat before?
Yes, both types are good for beginners. Because of health concerns, Exotic Shorthairs need a little more care. British Shorthairs are easier to take care of in general.