Exotic Shorthair – Breed#15

Introduction

Exotic Shorthair is an unusual and adorable breed of cat that has stolen the heart of many with its teddy bear look and that loving nature. This breed has been referred to as the shorter-haired cousin of the Persian cat that provides all the beauty of the long-haired counterpart, with much less maintenance being done in terms of grooming. No wonder the Exotic Shorthair has become a much-loved pet of people all over the world, who seek a cute, quiet, and easy-to-take-care-of cat.

We could not include all the information which you might want to know about the Exotic Shorthair: its history, appearance, temper, grooming needs, health issues, and other. We tried to cover all this in this extensive article. You may want to put one in your house or you are simply interested in this breed: either way, this guide will provide you details.

The History of the Exotic Shorthair

The breed known as Exotic Shorthair was created during the 1950s when the breeders of the American Shorthair tried to cross their cats with the Persian ones in an effort to have a better body shape and keep the short coat as well. The end product was a fuller face, a smaller, squatter body, and a dense, fuzzy coat. The breedings used other breeds over time- Russian Blue and Burmese were used at times, in an attempt to create the desired coat feel and look.

By the 1960s, the breed was registered, and by 1967, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) recognized the Exotic Shorthair as a championship breed. It has become one of the most popular pedigreed cat breeds in North America today, and this breed is gradually becoming popular across the world.

Appearance: A Plush Teddy Bear Come to Life

Some of the most distinctive characteristics of the Exotic Shorthair include the fluffy, dense coat and the particular appearance of the face, which bears a lot of similarity to that one of the Persian cat.

Physical Characteristics

• Head: big and round with full cheeks.
• Eyes: Large, round and expressive; generally copper in tone but can be different in color according to coat color.
• Nose: Short and broad (brachycephalic), which causes it the characteristic appearance of being pushed in.
• Body: Medium and larger, stocky and muscular with a broad chest and thick, short legs.
• Tail: Short and thick, and rounded.
• Coat: very short and very thick and fleecy in texture. The undercoat is dense thus making the coat feel plush.

Coat Colors and Patterns

The Exotic Shorthair is available in virtually all of the available colors and patterns, such as:

• Solid (white, black, blue, red, cream)
• Tabby (classic, mackerel, spotted)
• Bi-color
• Calico
• Smoke
• Shaded
• Pointed (similar to a Siamese, called “Himalayan” Exotics)

Their variety ensures that they are visually different, though still having that iconic teddy bear image.

Check Out: European Shorthair – Breed#14

Temperament: Calm, Affectionate, and Loyal

Exotic shorthair is claimed to fit perfectly, even in its temperament, and it is cuddly in appearance. These cats are affectionate and like to be around them, but they are not too dependent that they cannot entertain themselves.

Personality Traits

• Affectionate: They attach themselves well with their families and like snuggling.
• Playful: Exotic Shorthairs may be mellow as adults; however, they do love some types of toys and games during the early stages.
• Quiet: they are neither talkative nor noisy but when they talk it normally is in a soft and sweet way.
• Loyal: These cats are famous housecats who are faithful to their humans and tend to stick with the one person they like and go with him or her as he or she goes in and out a room.
• Adaptable: They are easily adaptable in quiet homes or in a busy family set-up.

They are a good option of people with families, senior citizens, and singles; they are also suitable in homes with other pets.

Grooming and Maintenance: Easier Than a Persian

The relative grooming requirement of the Exotic Shorthair in comparison with the Persian cat is one of the largest merits of the former. Although they share the same face structure and body shape, their short coat is much easier to manage.

Grooming Tips

• Brushing: For keeping the coat smooth, as well as to make it shed less, you should brush Exotic Shorthair once or twice every week. At the time of seasonal changes, you can also brush more often.
• Face Cleaning: The Exotic Shorthairs possess flat faces, which makes tear staining a possibility. They could also use a damp cloth to wipe their eyes daily or cautiously so as to make their face clean.
• Bathing: No frequent bathing is necessary, but it can be of some assistance at times may be in the form of removal of excess oil on the skin
• Nail Clipping: Cut their nails every two weeks.
• Dental Care: clean their teeth regularly and can provide dental treatments where they do not like to have their teeth cleaned.

Feeding and Nutrition

Exotic Shorthairs like any other cat are healthy with high protein diet. Select a food that has meat or fish as the first component of its composition, and that does not have any fillers and artificial additives.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion Control: They tend to be laid back and prone to obesity, therefore limit the portions and do not over feed.
• Scheduled Feeding: Regular Meals as opposed to free-feeding: To prevent excess weight, one should adhere to regular meals instead of free-feeding.
• Fresh Water: Clean, fresh water: Fresh water should be provided at all times.

Talk to your vet about dietary requirements, particularly in as far as your cat is concerned in case it has any medical concerns or allergons.

Health Considerations

Although Exotic Shorthair is considered to be relatively healthy breed, certain associated health issues can arise because of their brachycephalic nature (flat faces). Many of these problems are reduced through responsible breeding, although one should still be more knowledgeable.

Common Health Problems

• Brachycephalic Syndrome: The face is flat and this may cause them problems breathing and even cause overheat, particularly during hot weather.
• Tear Duct Issues: The tearing is very frequent, and due to this, stains appear on their face.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A disorder transmitted genetically that may result in the failure of the kidneys at an advanced age. This is screened by responsible breeders.
• Dental Issues: Density in teeth would predispose one to gum disease.
• Obesity: They enjoy being inactive, and this may predispose them to obesity.

Lifespan

When well taken care of, Exotic Shorthairs usually live anywhere between 12 to 15 years, but most tend to live more when maintained healthy lifestyle and regular vet visits.

Living Environment

Exotic Shorthair is excellent for living indoors. They do not belong outdoors because of their temperament and facial form.

• Indoor Safety: Their flat faces may make them not see and respond well and that is a bit hazardous when they are outside.
• Enrichment: Give them an over-abundance of toys, scratching posts, and even climbing structures to take their minds off things.
• Companionship: These cats love to be with somebody, and they can become lonely when they are left without any companions. Two cats ask to be considered when you are away frequently.

Finding and Choosing an Exotic Shorthair

Provided that you have already made up your mind that the Exotic Shorthair is the breed that you need, you will have to find a responsible source.

Reputable Breeders

Choose breeders who:

• Test for genetic diseases like PKD
• Provide veterinary records and health guarantees
• Allow you to visit the breeding facility or meet the kittens’ parents
• Are registered with reputable cat associations like CFA or TICA

Adoption Options

Consider adopting from:

• Breed-specific rescue groups
• General cat shelters
• Pet adoption platforms

Adoption of an older Exotic Shorthair is also a good idea and can be engaging to the owner who would rather have a calm and more settled cat.

Conclusion

Exotic Shorthair is a classy cocktail of chill nature and cute appearance. It is so often referred to as the lazy man Persian because it gives the beauty of a Persian cat but not the high maintenance upkeep. Its sweet disposition, low-key personality, and adjustability, it is no wonder that this breed by the day is gaining even more popularity.

Whether you are leading it to curl up in your lap or just watch the world go by together on the windowsill in the sun, the Exotic Shorthair is that type of cat that will bring warmth, fun, and a touch of cuddly appeal to any household. No matter your status as a single professional, an active family member, or a retiree who just needs a furry companion, this breed can easily fit into almost any type of lifestyle.

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