Origin and History
The Exotic Shorthair cat breed was developed in the United States in the 1960s. The breed originated from a cross between Persian cats and American Shorthairs, along with some involvement from other shorthaired breeds such as the Russian Blue and the Burmese, to create a cat with the Persian’s distinctive features but with a short, plush coat. The goal was to have a cat with the same gentle and calm personality of the Persian but without the grooming demands of the long hair. The Exotic Shorthair quickly gained popularity for its easy-care coat and sweet, round-faced Persian look, earning it the nickname “the lazy man’s Persian.” The breed was recognized by The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1967, and today, it is one of the most popular cat breeds.
Appearance
Exotic Shorthairs have a compact, muscular body, with a short, thick neck and a broad chest. They share the same brachycephalic (flat-faced) head structure as the Persian, with large, round eyes that give them an expression of perpetual surprise. Their ears are small and rounded, set far apart and low on the head to emphasize the roundness of the head.
The breed’s most distinguishing feature is its short, dense coat, which stands out from the body and feels plush to the touch, similar to a teddy bear. This coat comes in the same wide variety of colors and patterns as the Persian, including solid, tabby, calico, and pointed varieties.
Personality and Temperament
Exotic Shorthairs are known for their calm, relaxed demeanor, inheriting the gentle nature of the Persian breed. They are affectionate and friendly cats that enjoy being with their human companions, often following them around the house or sitting in their laps. Despite their laid-back nature, they can be playful and enjoy interactive toys that stimulate their hunting instincts.
Exotics are generally quiet cats, but they may occasionally voice their needs or desires with a soft, melodious voice. They are adaptable and can do well in various living situations, including apartments and homes with or without yards. They are also known to get along well with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions.
Health
Like their Persian ancestors, Exotic Shorthairs can be prone to certain health issues due to their brachycephalic facial structure, including respiratory and dental problems. They may also be susceptible to Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and other conditions common to Persians. Regular veterinary check-ups and health screenings can help manage these risks.
Their short coat requires much less grooming than the Persian’s, but regular brushing is still recommended to remove loose hairs and prevent hairballs. Despite the easier grooming routine, it’s important to pay attention to cleaning their facial creases to avoid skin infections.
Overall, the Exotic Shorthair offers the best of both worlds: the adorable appearance and sweet temperament of the Persian, with the added benefit of a low-maintenance coat. Their affectionate nature and easy-going attitude make them a beloved pet in many households.
