What do you get when you cross a Persian Cat with a Teddy Bear? From it’s Persian looks, short, plush coat and endearing purr-sonality, one would almost think that’s how the Exotic Shorthair cat breed came to be!

Exotic Shorthair cats offer the best of both worlds to the cat lover – the exotic looks and quiet, affectionate, loyal and playful temperament of the Persian cat . The Exotic Shorthair cat has a short, dense coat that is easier to care for than the labor-intensive grooming regime required for it’s long-haired relatives.

The Exotic Shorthair cat has been called the “Lazy Person’s Persian”. It certainly shares many traits with it’s Persian cousins. Possibly the sweetest of all the purebred cat breeds, the Exotic has a very endearing personality. These cats are so devoted to their owners that it can be difficult to leave them on their own for periods of time due to their separation anxiety. They have playful, kitten-like qualities all their lives. Exotics are also gentle and get along well with children, dogs and other family pets.

Exotic Shorthair cats and kittens come in a wide range of colors. These include Chinchilla silver, like the cat displayed above.  Exotic Shorthair colors also include tabby, black, white, smoke, orange tabby, grey tabby and others that are also found in the Persian cat breed.

Is the Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed the Right Choice for You?

If you like a cat that stays playful throughout it’s life, this is a good choice. As pretty as a Persian, but requiring a lot less brushing and primping, the Exotic Shorthair cat is a great choice for families and singles alike. Unlike many breeds of cat which can be somewhat aloof and intolerant of handling, these loveable plush pets are as cuddly as they are gorgeous.

As with the Persian, that can suffer from some health problems due to the brachycephalic (peke-faced) appearance. It’s important that you choose a cat breeder from which to purchase your kitten wisely.  Your breeder should be well aware of health problems that can occur in the Exotic Shorthair cat breed. The cattery should offer a reasonable health guarantee on the Exotic Shorthair kittens for sale. Never buy an Exotic Shorthair kitten from a newspaper ad or online kitten classifieds site.

Further Reading About the Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed

• Wikipedia offers an article about the Exotic Shorthair cat breed.
• The Exotic Shorthair Cat Society in the UK offers lots of breed information and pictures.