British Shorthair

The British Shorthair is an easy and sociable breed that is very capable of interacting with people, dogs and other cats. British Shorthair cats like being near their humans, without being too pushy. They have a very dense coat that needs regular care.

Character

British Shorthair cats resemble big teddy bears. They are calm, happy, patient and balanced. Whether you’re living in a city or the country: they can adapt to any living situation. They are very social, lively and playful with other cats and dogs. They are affectionate and sweet without being pushy. They like companionship, but aren’t exactly lap cats and don’t enjoy being picked up or carried. While it’s a very independent breed, British Shorthair cats don’t enjoy being left alone for too long. It takes about two to three years for a British Shorthair to reach adulthood and they go through puberty quite late. A weekly brushing is sufficient.

Appearance

Colour

British Shorthair cats exist in all colours.

Body, legs and tail

The British Shorthair is robust and stocky, with a broad chest, shoulders and hips. They are muscular with short and sturdy legs and round paws. Their tail equals about 2/3 of their body length. The tail is thicker at the base and tapers off into a blunt tip.

Head, ears and eyes

The British Shorthair has a round, wide and big head with well-developed cheeks. The nose is rounded and clearly defined. The rhinarium is short, straight, wide and slightly tuned upwards. The widely set ears are medium-sized and broad at the base with blunt tips. The British Shorthair has big, round, wide-set eyes and the colour is in harmony with the colour of the coat.

Coat

The British Shorthair has a short, dense coat with a plush and firm texture. Daily grooming is important during the moulting period, as a British Shorthair sheds a lot during that period.

Weight

The average weight of a British Shorthair is between 4 and 8 kg.