Exotic Longhair Cat

The history of the Exotic Longhair cat is inextricably linked to the history of its shorthaired relative. It all began in the 1950s in the USA, when Persian cat breeders decided to “improve” the American Shorthair breed by adding the silver colouration and more massive build of Persians. However, the results of the crossbreeding were unexpected: the kittens had the charming appearance of Persians (flat face, large eyes, sturdy build) but a short, dense, plush coat. These cats were initially called “Sterlings” due to their silver colour, but later, when other colour variations appeared, the breed was named the Exotic Shorthair. It was officially recognised in 1967.

However, genetics had a surprise in store. Since Persian cats carried the gene for long hair (recessive), this gene was passed on to the Exotics when crossed with American Shorthairs. When two Shorthair Exotics, both carriers of this recessive gene, were crossed, long-haired kittens could appear in the litter. Initially, such kittens were considered “non-standard” and excluded from Exotic Shorthair breeding programmes.

Over time, attitudes towards long-haired Exotics changed. Their charming appearance, combining features of the Persian and the Exotic, and their gentle nature won them admirers. However, their status remains somewhat undefined and depends on the feline organisation:

• CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association): In the USA, Exotic Longhairs are often registered and shown as Persian cats. They fully meet the Persian breed standard.
• TICA (The International Cat Association): TICA recognises the Exotic breed, which includes both shorthaired and long-haired variations. The Exotic Longhair competes in the same group as Persians.
• FIFe (Fédération Internationale Féline) and WCF (World Cat Federation): These European organisations often consider long-haired Exotics as a variation of the Exotic Shorthair breed, rather than a separate breed or part of the Persian breed. They can participate in shows, but sometimes without the right to championship titles, although rules can change.

So, although the Exotic Longhair cat doesn’t always have official status as a separate breed, it is a favourite of many due to its unique appearance and wonderful temperament, having inherited the best from its Persian and Exotic Shorthair ancestors.

The Exotic Longhair cat is, in essence, a Persian with a shorthair gene that did not manifest, giving way to the recessive longhair gene. Therefore, its appearance is almost identical to that of a Persian cat and corresponds to its standard in most aspects, with the exception of some nuances in coat texture, which may not be as abundant and “cottony” as in some modern show Persians.

1. Head: Large, round, massive, with a broad skull. Forehead domed.
2. Muzzle: Short, broad, with a pronounced “stop” (the break between the forehead and nose). Cheeks full, round. Chin strong, well-developed. Whisker pads prominent.
3. Nose: Short, snub, broad, with open nostrils. Set between the eyes.
4. Eyes: Large, round, set wide apart, expressive. Giving the face a sweet, surprised expression. Eye colour should be intense and correspond to the coat colour (most often copper or dark orange, but also blue in colourpoints and white cats, green in chinchillas and silver varieties).
5. Ears: Small, with rounded tips, set wide apart and low on the head, tilting slightly forward. Desirably with thick tufts of fur inside.
6. Body: “Cobby” type – compact, sturdy, low-slung, with a broad chest and massive back. Well-developed musculature. Shoulders and rump massive.
7. Limbs: Short, thick, strong. Paws large, round, firm. Tufts of fur between the toes are desirable.
8. Tail: Short (proportional to the body), thick at the base, tapering slightly to a rounded tip. Covered in very dense and long fur, forming a “plume.”
9. Coat: The main difference from the Exotic Shorthair – long, dense, soft, silky to the touch. It does not lie flat against the body but stands off, creating the impression of a fluffy cloud. It forms a luxurious ruff on the neck and chest, and a bushy plume on the tail. The texture may be slightly lighter than that of a classic Persian, but still requires thorough grooming.
10. Colours: Absolutely all possible colours and patterns recognised for the Persian breed are permitted. This includes solid (white, black, red, cream, blue, lilac), smoke, chinchilla, silver, golden, tabby (mackerel, classic, spotted), bicolor, tortoiseshell, colourpoint, and others.

The temperament of the Exotic Longhair cat is one of its most appealing traits. It inherited the calm and gentle nature of its Persian ancestor but is often a bit more playful and inquisitive, similar to its Exotic Shorthair relative. This is an ideal companion cat that adores human company but is not intrusive.

Main character traits:

• Gentleness and affection: These are true “lap cats.” They love to sit next to their owner, purr, and receive affection. Their touch is soft, and their nature is compliant.
• Calmness and balance: Exotic Longhairs are not prone to hyperactivity or destructive behaviour. They appreciate cosiness and a calm atmosphere in the home.
• Playfulness: Although calm, they don’t mind playing, especially at a young age. Short bursts of activity with a favourite toy (feather, ball) are followed by long rests. Their playfulness persists into adulthood but becomes less intense.
• Inquisitiveness: They watch what is happening around them with interest but usually do so from a safe distance. Large eyes carefully follow the owner’s every move.
• Devotion: These cats become strongly attached to their people and do not tolerate prolonged loneliness well. They need daily attention and interaction. If you spend a lot of time away from home, you might consider another breed or get a companion for your Exotic.
• Quiet voice: Like Persians, Exotic Longhairs have a soft, quiet voice and meow infrequently, only when they really need something (food, attention).
• Friendliness: They get along wonderfully with children (provided the children are taught to handle animals carefully) and other pets, including dogs, if introduced correctly and gradually. Aggression is completely alien to them.
• Sensitivity: They can be somewhat sensitive if shouted at or handled roughly. They respond well to affection and positive reinforcement.

Overall, the Exotic Longhair cat is the epitome of calmness and affection. It is ideally suited for people looking for a not-too-active, but very loving and devoted fluffy friend.

Exotic Longhair cats, having inherited many traits from Persians, unfortunately, also inherited a predisposition to certain genetic and breed-specific diseases. The flat face (brachycephalic syndrome) is the cause of a number of problems, and there are also other hereditary ailments that potential owners should be aware of.

Main health problems:

• Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS): Due to their short muzzle and nose, these cats may have narrowed nostrils, an overly long soft palate, and other abnormalities that make breathing difficult. This can manifest as snorting, snoring, breathing with an open mouth, and tiring easily, especially in hot weather or during physical exertion. In severe cases, surgical correction may be necessary.
• Eye problems: Large, protruding eyes and a flat face lead to:
  • Epiphora (excessive tearing): Tear ducts may be malformed, hindering tear drainage. This leads to constant dampness of the fur under the eyes, formation of tear stains, and skin irritation. Requires daily care.
  • Entropion/Ectropion: Inward or outward rolling of the eyelids, which can irritate the cornea.
  • Corneal ulcers: Due to the eyes being less protected.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This is the most common hereditary disease in Persian and related breeds. Cysts form in the kidneys from birth, gradually growing, replacing healthy tissue, and leading to chronic kidney failure. The disease is incurable, but it can be detected by ultrasound or a genetic test (it is highly recommended to test the kitten’s parents!). Responsible breeders test their animals and remove PKD gene carriers from breeding.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): A disease of the heart muscle leading to thickening of the left ventricle walls. It is the most common heart disease in cats. Diagnosed by cardiac ultrasound (echocardiography). Genetic tests exist for some mutations associated with HCM.
• Dental problems: Due to their jaw structure, Exotic Longhairs are prone to malocclusion (incorrect bite) and crowded teeth. This promotes the rapid formation of plaque, tartar, and the development of gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis). Regular oral hygiene and veterinary check-ups are important.
• Susceptibility to heatstroke: Due to breathing difficulties, they tolerate heat poorly. It is necessary to provide them with a cool place in summer and avoid excessive exertion.
• Skin problems: Prone to fungal infections (dermatophytosis/ringworm), especially in kittens. Skin irritation in folds or due to constant moisture from tears is also possible.

Prevention:

• Choosing a responsible breeder: Ensure the breeder tests their breeding stock for PKD (essential!) and preferably for HCM.
• Regular veterinary check-ups: Annual (and for older cats, biannual) check-ups will help detect problems at an early stage.
• Daily eye care: Wipe the area under the eyes with special wipes or a cotton pad soaked in warm water or a special lotion.
• Dental care: Regular brushing with a special cat toothbrush and toothpaste, use of dental treats or food. Professional cleaning by a vet if necessary.
• Weight control: Excess weight exacerbates breathing problems and stress on joints.
• Ensuring a comfortable temperature: Avoid overheating the animal.

Although the list of potential problems may seem significant, with proper care, attention to health, and choosing a kitten from tested parents, an Exotic Longhair cat can live a long and happy life, showering you with its love and affection.

The long, dense, and soft coat of the Exotic Longhair cat is its main adornment, but it also requires the most attention and regular care. Without proper grooming, the coat quickly becomes tangled and matted, which not only spoils its appearance but can also cause discomfort and skin problems for the animal.

Basic coat care procedures:

• Daily brushing: This is absolutely essential! Use a metal comb with both wide and fine teeth. Start with the wide teeth to work through any tangles, then switch to the fine teeth to remove dead hair and undercoat. Pay special attention to areas where matts form most often: behind the ears, on the “ruff,” under the armpits, on the “trousers,” and on the belly.
• Using a slicker brush: After combing, you can gently go over the coat with a soft-tipped slicker brush to lift the fur and give it volume. But don’t overdo it, to avoid damaging the guard hairs.
• Dealing with matts: If a matt has already formed, don’t try to pull it out with a comb – this is painful for the cat. Try to gently tease it apart with your fingers; you can use a special detangling spray. In extreme cases, if the matt is very dense, it will need to be carefully cut out with a special matt splitter or scissors with rounded ends, holding them parallel to the skin and protecting the skin with your fingers.
• Bathing: Exotic Longhairs should be bathed as needed, usually once every 1-3 months, or if the animal is heavily soiled. Use only special shampoos for long-haired cats. Be sure to rinse the coat thoroughly to remove all shampoo. After washing, it is highly advisable to use a conditioner or balm – it makes brushing easier, reduces static, and nourishes the coat.
• Drying: After bathing, thoroughly blot the coat with a towel (don’t rub!). Then, the cat needs to be dried with a hairdryer on a low heat setting, simultaneously brushing the coat with a comb. Do not leave the cat with a wet coat, especially in a cool room, as it can catch a cold. Moreover, wet long fur tangles more easily.
• Clipping (optional): Some owners resort to a hygienic clip (e.g., trimming the fur around the anal area) or even a full “lion cut” in the summer to ease grooming and help the cat cope with the heat. However, show animals are not permitted to be clipped.

Other aspects of care:

• Eyes: As mentioned, they require daily cleaning of tear secretions using special lotions or simply warm boiled water.
• Ears: Regularly (once a week or two) inspect the ear flaps. If there is dirt or wax, gently clean them with a cotton pad moistened with a special ear cleaning lotion. Do not use cotton buds!
• Claws: Trim the claws with special clippers approximately every 2-4 weeks, cutting only the transparent tip and avoiding the pink part (quick).
• Teeth: Regular brushing will help prevent dental problems.

Accustom the kitten to all grooming procedures (brushing, bathing, cleaning eyes and ears) from a young age, doing so gently and rewarding with treats. Then, the adult cat will perceive grooming as a normal part of life, not a stressful event.

Although Exotic Longhair cats are known for their calm and somewhat phlegmatic temperament, they are quite intelligent and capable of learning, especially if approached correctly. Their natural inquisitiveness and affection for their owner can be a good foundation for training.

Key aspects of training and socialisation:

• Early socialisation: It is very important for the kitten to get used to people, different sounds, touches, and grooming procedures from a young age. This will help raise a confident and calm cat that is not afraid of guests or vet visits.
• Litter tray and scratching post training: Usually, there are no problems with this. Show the kitten where its toilet is and gently place it there after sleeping or eating. The scratching post should also be shown, and its use encouraged; catnip can be used to attract attention.
• Positive reinforcement: Exotic Longhairs, like most cats, respond best to affection, praise, and treats. Never punish a cat physically or shout at it – this can cause fear, stress, and distrust. If the cat does something undesirable, it’s better to redirect its attention to a toy or say a firm “No.”
• Teaching commands: Although they are not service dogs, Exotics can be taught simple commands like “Come” or “Sit,” especially if using clicker training and tasty rewards. The main thing is patience and short, regular sessions. Don’t expect immediate compliance, as it is still a cat that does what it deems necessary.
• Interactive games: It’s important to provide the cat with not only physical but also mental stimulation. Use interactive toys, “fishing rods,” laser pointers (always end the game with a “catch” so as not to disappoint the hunter), and hide treats. This will help maintain its playfulness and intelligence.
• Accustoming to grooming: As already mentioned, gradual and gentle accustoming to brushing, cleaning eyes, ears, and teeth from an early age is key to comfortable cohabitation.

Remember that the Exotic Longhair cat is a gentle companion, not a trick performer. The main goal of training and socialisation is to build a trusting relationship and teach the cat basic rules of behaviour in the home, so that your life together is harmonious and pleasant.

Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of health and longevity for any cat, and for the Exotic Longhair, with its predisposition to certain diseases, it is of particular importance. The main goal is to provide a balanced diet that meets the animal’s age, activity level, and health status, and also considers potential risks (primarily related to the kidneys and urinary system).

Feeding options:

• Ready-made commercial foods: This is the easiest and most reliable way to ensure a balanced diet. Choose premium, super-premium, or holistic grade foods. They contain high-quality ingredients and the necessary balance of proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.
  • Dry food: Convenient to store, helps clean teeth from plaque. It is important that the cat always has access to fresh water, as dry food contains little moisture.
  • Wet food (cans, pouches): Contains a lot of moisture, which is important for preventing urinary tract and kidney diseases. It has high palatability. A combination of dry and wet food is ideal.
• Natural feeding: Requires in-depth knowledge of feline dietetics and careful ration calculation. An improperly balanced “natural” diet can do more harm than good. If you choose this path, be sure to consult a veterinary nutritionist. The diet should primarily consist of meat (beef, chicken, turkey), offal, a small amount of vegetables, and calcium sources. Cats should absolutely not be fed food from your table!

Dietary specifics for the Exotic Longhair cat:

• Prevention of PKD and urolithiasis: Due to the predisposition to polycystic kidney disease, it’s important to ensure sufficient water intake. Drinking can be encouraged with wet foods, by placing several water bowls, or using a drinking fountain. Some vets may recommend specialised diets to support kidney health, especially for older cats or those with diagnosed problems. It’s important to control phosphorus and protein levels in the diet of adult and senior animals.
• Weight control: Exotic Longhairs are prone to weight gain due to their calm temperament. Obesity increases the risk of many diseases (diabetes, joint problems, heart, breathing). Strictly adhere to the feeding guidelines on the food packaging or those calculated by your vet. Do not overfeed with treats.
• Coat care: Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are important for maintaining healthy skin and coat. Quality foods usually contain them in sufficient quantities. Vitamin supplements for the coat can be given additionally (on veterinary advice).
• Hairball management: Due to their long coat, Exotics are prone to forming hairballs in the gastrointestinal tract. Regular brushing helps reduce the amount of ingested hair. Special pastes or foods for hairball removal can also be used. Sprouted grass (oats, wheat) also helps to cleanse the stomach.
• Sensitive digestion: Some Exotics may have a sensitive stomach. In such cases, choose foods for cats with sensitive digestion.
• Fish: It is not recommended to give raw freshwater fish due to the risk of parasite infection and the presence of small bones. Sea fish (cooked, boneless) can be given occasionally as a treat, but it should not be the basis of the diet, as an excess of fish can contribute to the development of urolithiasis.

Always ensure your cat has free access to fresh, clean drinking water!

Like any breed, the Exotic Longhair cat has its advantages and disadvantages. It is important to weigh all the “pros” and “cons” before getting such a pet.

• The “lazy man’s Persian” in reverse: If the Exotic Shorthair is often called the “lazy man’s Persian” due to its similar appearance but easier coat care, then the Exotic Longhair is, in essence, a “Persian born from Exotics,” requiring the same meticulous grooming as a classic Persian.
• Genetic surprise: The appearance of long-haired kittens in a litter of two shorthaired Exotics is only possible if both parents are carriers of the recessive longhair gene (L/l). If at least one parent has two dominant shorthair genes (L/L), all kittens will be shorthaired.
• Unrecognised status: Despite its popularity, the breed still does not have a unified status across all feline organisations. This creates some confusion: in one organisation, a cat may be shown as a Persian, in another as a long-haired Exotic, and in a third as a non-standard variant of the Exotic Shorthair.
• “Perpetual kitten”: Thanks to their large round eyes, short nose, and round head, Exotic Longhair cats often retain a “baby-faced” expression throughout their lives.
• Variety of colours: Like Persians, they can come in virtually any colour imaginable in the cat world, from classic solids to exotic colourpoints and bicolors.

Does the Exotic Longhair cat shed a lot?
Yes, they shed quite heavily, especially during seasonal moults (spring and autumn). Regular daily brushing helps to control the amount of fur in the home, but it won’t be possible to eliminate it completely.

Are these cats suitable for people with allergies?
No, the Exotic Longhair cat is not a hypoallergenic breed. Allergies are not caused by the fur itself, but by the Fel d 1 protein found in the cat’s saliva, skin secretions, and urine. Long fur can trap more of these allergens. People with allergies should consider other breeds.

How much does an Exotic Longhair kitten cost?
The price can vary significantly depending on pedigree, kitten class (pet, breed, show), cattery reputation, and region. Typically, pet-class kittens (domestic pets, without breeding rights) cost less than kittens for shows and breeding. The price can range from several hundred to over a thousand pounds/euros.

What is the difference between an Exotic Longhair and a Persian cat?
Externally and in character, they are very similar. The main difference is their origin. The Exotic Longhair is born to Exotic Shorthair parents (who carry the longhair gene). Sometimes their coat may be slightly less dense and “cottony” than that of modern show Persians. In some feline organisations, they are classified as Persians altogether.

Can an Exotic Longhair cat be left alone for long periods?
These cats are very human-oriented and do not tolerate loneliness well. If you regularly spend a lot of time away from home (more than 8-10 hours a day), this breed may not be suitable, or you should consider getting a second cat as a companion.

Do they require a lot of physical activity?
No, this is a fairly calm breed with a moderate activity level. They need short play sessions daily to maintain fitness and mental stimulation, but they do not require as much space or exertion as more active breeds.

The Exotic Longhair cat is a charming, gentle, and calm companion that will bring much joy to a family prepared to give it attention and provide proper care. Its sweet, teddy-bear-like appearance and gentle nature make it a favourite with adults and children alike. However, potential owners should be prepared for daily meticulous grooming of its luxurious coat, regular eye cleaning, and careful attention to possible health problems inherited from its Persian ancestors. If you are looking for a devoted friend who will purr on your lap and offer warmth, and you are ready for responsible care, the Exotic Longhair cat could be the perfect choice.