Exotic Shorthair Cats: Everything You Need to Know About this Pet

Known for its distinctive flat face and lush fur, the Exotic Shorthair cat is among the world’s most popular cats. There’s no ignoring that squishy, fluffy cat face and Exotic Shorthair kittens are even more irresistible! Here are 7 fun facts you need to know about the Exotic Shorthair cat:

1. What does an Exotic look like?

Exotic Shorthair bodies are compact and well-balanced, with broad chests and shoulders. Large, round eyes and a round head are one of their most distinguishing features. It’s due to the density of their bones that they have adorably short legs, wide necks, and a chubby appearance. Exotic Shorthair cats come in a variety of colours, including black, white, tabby, and calico and the colour of their eyes can range from deep blue to brilliant copper.

2. Do Exotic Shorthair cats shed?

Although Exotics are less high maintenance than Persians, they still require some grooming. Keeping this fluffy cat’s thick double coat in tiptop shape and preventing fur balls requires regular brushing. Since this breed is non-shedding, you may find a few hairs here and there, but nothing excessive.

3. Where do Exotic Shorthair cats come from?

Exotic Shorthair cats became popular in the 60s but were only recognized as a breed in 1967. Feline breed judge Jane Martinke was the first person to mix the Persian with a British/American Shorthair. Eventually she succeeded in getting the world’s largest registry of pedigreed cats, the Cat Fanciers’ Association in the US, to recognize the Exotic Shorthair in its own category.

4. Is an Exotic Shorthair just a Shorthair Persian?

The Exotic Shorthair cat is not just a Persian with shorter hair, it’s a mix between a Persian and British or American Shorthair and has been classified as its own breed. Often called the “lazy man’s Persian”, it has all the characteristics of the Persian but without the maintenance of the long coat.

5. Are they prone to health problems?

Exotics are generally healthy, but their flat faces make them more susceptible to respiratory problems. In our article on brachycephalic breeds, we provide plenty of information relevant to flat-faced cats.

Eating issues

As their faces are smaller than other cats, it may be difficult for them to get food into their mouths. So, you may notice that your Exotic is a messy eater. Place their food bowl in a convenient location where you won’t step in cat food.

Eye issues

Generally, it’s common for their large eyes to become watery, and the oxidizing tears can lead to infection. It’s advised to keep tear stains clean with sterile gauze and saline water (our article on eye infections in dogs and cats will provide more tips). Their protruding eyes also make them more vulnerable to injury or scratching.

Other issues

If you want an Exotic Shorthair kitten that’s healthy, make sure the breeder screens the parents for issues like:

• Dental malocclusion (teeth don’t fit together well)
• Excessive tearing
• Cherry eye
• Entropion (eyelids roll inward)

Also, as soon as you bring your Exotic Shorthair kitten home, take them to the vet regularly and feed them a nutritious, balanced diet (read about the dry cat food vs wet cat food debate for more information).

6. Are Exotic Shorthair cats hypoallergenic?

Exotic Shorthair cats are not hypoallergenic cats, so if you’re allergic to cats you may react to their fur.

7. How long do Exotic Shorthair cats live?

It’s possible to raise an Exotic cat for up to 15 years if you care for it well.

Insurance for the exotic and the not so

We just know that your Exotic Shorthair cat adores you (or will when you buy it!). In return, your pet deserves the ultimate act of love: a pet insurance plan to protect them in case of injury or illness.

A cat insurance plan by PD Insurance offers tail-ored coverage to suit their needs, giving you a financial safeguard against things like accidents, sicknesses, infections, allergies and more. Don’t waste any more time; click below to get your quote.