https://dogperday.com/meet-the-exotic-shorthair-cat/
https://dogperday.com/meet-the-exotic-shorthair-cat/This quirky little cat is known as “the lazy man’s Persian” because its coat is easier to groom. These kitties are easy to live with, a little more laidback than their Persian cousins and are becoming increasingly popular. So today, let’s meet the Exotic Shorthair Cat!
What is the Exotic Shorthair Cat?
This sweet cat has a face full of expression and has a round, soft profile. Characteristic round, wide-set eyes on large heads make for an unforgettable appearance. The coat is plush and short, making for easy grooming. The Exotic Shorthair Cat tends to be great with other pets, if socialized from a young age. They even get along well with children and are loyal to their owners. These are quiet cats and aren’t known for vocalizing. However, they can be needy for attention.
The History of the Exotic Shorthair Cat
In the 1950’s, Americans who loved Shorthairs and who liked Persians began breeding the two distinct breeds together. This hybridization led to a heavier-boned cat with rounded head and shorter nose. The coat is denser but short and easy to manage. Ears are round tipped, small and tilted slightly forward.
Although most Exotic Shorthairs have short hair, some carry the recessive longhair gene. Therefore, if two cats mate, there’s a one in four chance that the offspring will have long hair. The Cat Fanciers’ Association does not count these as Persians, however. The International Cat Association, by comparison, will accept them as Persians.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Personality
Exotic Shorthair Cats are easygoing, and they make a wonderful addition to any family. They are super adorable, clean and peaceful. How’s that for a great personality? These cats tend to take longer to mature than other breeds, but meet milestones faster than some other breeds.
Exotic Shorthair Cats make great lap cats due to their love of affection and loyalty to their owners. Their calm nature means they make amazing apartment cats. Even if you don’t live in the city, the Exotic Shorthair makes a great companion. They are known to be pretty good mouse hunters!
The Body of the Exotic Shorthair
First, in order to meet the Exotic Shorthair Cat, it’s a good idea to describe this unique breed…
— Eyes: The eyes of this cute cat are one of their best features! These are three descriptors: big, round and prominent. Eyes are set far apart and are brilliant in color. Eye color depends on the coat color.
— Ears: The ears are round and tipped forward. They are set far apart but appear low on the head. Yet, the head still has a round shape even with the ear’s profile.
— Head: The Exotic Shorthair has a large, round head. The eyes and nose are the prominent features on the head. Speaking of the nose, it appears flat and broad.
— Neck: Their necks are short and wide.
— Body: The Exotic Shorthair has a cobby type of body with low legs and a deep chest. The cat has a good muscle tone without much propensity for obesity. These shorthairs tend to run medium to large in size.
— Coat: Exotic Shorthairs have varied coats of all colors! Those with long hair have a thick coat that stands away from the body. The ruff is large with a deep frill that grows between the front legs. Shorthairs have a dense, plush fur with a thick undercoat.
— Paws: Paws are round, large and have a firm pad. They have five toes in front and four toes behind.
— Tail: Their tails are short but proportional to their bodies. It’s carried low with a rounded tip.
Health of the Exotic Shorthair
Because this cat is a brachycephalous breed, which means they have issues with their nose and eyes being so close together. This pushed in face can cause issues with tear ducts and sinuses. In addition to that, tooth crowding due to a short jaw may also occur. Here are some more common health issues…
— Brachycephalic airway obstructive syndrome: This is also known as congenital obstructive upper airway disease. It can cause airway resistance, strain on the heart and inflammation of the airway. Treatments for this syndrome include weight loss, avoiding hot environments and surgery.
— Feline polycystic kidney disease (PKD): Exotic Shorthairs, along with Persians, have a high likelihood of getting PKD. This disease leads to kidney failure. For preventative measures, ultrasound scans show any issues that might be happening. DNA screening is suggested for all Exotic Shorthairs to see if they have a chance of having PKD. In some breeding programs, cats with PKD are spayed and neutered to prevent the spread of the disease.
— Dystocia: This happens to cats who are in labor. Dystocia happens when a kitten has a big head and gets stuck in the mother during labor.
— Calcium oxalate urolithiasis: These are bladder and kidney stones. Often, cats with this disorder are often put on special foods to prevent the calcium deposits from forming. Infections can also cause bladder or kidney stones in cats.
Exotic Shorthair Care & Grooming
Unlike Persian cats, the Exotic Shorthair does a great job grooming themselves. However, to keep the fur extra clean, we suggest brushing every week to get debris and extra hair out. Consider getting a grooming glove to brush your cat, it might be easier for you both. Also, the tear ducts tend to drip and can cause staining on the face. So, wiping the cat’s face with a moist towel can help prevent the stains from getting bad.
Final Thoughts
The Exotic Shorthair cat breed is one that everyone is familiar with due to their unique physical characteristics. They are lively yet sweet, with lots of love to give. When it comes to care, they pretty much take care of themselves. However, for extra care, we suggest periodic grooming. Health-wise, it’s important to keep an eye on certain things. Any good vet will know common health risks with Exotic Shorthairs and be able to help you navigate them. We hope this gives you a good breakdown of what it would be like to meet the Exotic Shorthair Cat. They are a lovely breed with lots to offer your household.
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