Exotic Shorthair

The history of the Exotic Shorthair is closely tied to two other famous breeds: the Persian and the American Shorthair. This breed emerged relatively recently, in the 1950s and 60s in the United States, and its creation was more of an accident than a planned result.

Breeders of American Shorthairs, aiming to improve their breed’s silver coat and build, began crossbreeding them with silver Persian cats. The outcome was unexpected: the kittens inherited not only the desired coat color and sturdy build but also the Persians’ characteristic flat face and a thick, albeit short, coat. These kittens had an incredibly cute “teddy bear” look and the calm, gentle nature of Persians, but with a short coat that was much easier to maintain.

Initially, these hybrids weren’t popular with American Shorthair purists. However, Jane Martinke, a well-known breeder and CFA (Cat Fanciers’ Association) judge, saw the potential in these unique cats. She proposed recognizing them as a separate breed called “Sterling,” which highlighted their silver heritage. Later, once it was clear the breed could come in any color, the name was changed to “Exotic Shorthair” to better reflect their unique appearance.

In 1966, the CFA officially recognized the Exotic Shorthair breed. To further develop and solidify desired traits, crossing Exotics with Persians and American Shorthairs was initially permitted. Later, to preserve the breed’s unique characteristics, only Exotic-to-Exotic and Exotic-to-Persian crosses were allowed. This led to the modern Exotic Shorthair, which is nearly identical to the Persian in every way except for coat length.

Thanks to their charming looks, calm demeanor, and easy-to-care-for coat (compared to Persians), Exotics quickly gained popularity worldwide, becoming one of the most beloved domestic cat breeds. They’re especially popular with those who love the Persian look but aren’t ready for the extensive grooming commitment.

The Exotic Shorthair is a medium to large cat with a sturdy, cobby build. Its appearance should convey strength, harmony, and a charming roundness. The breed standard for most cat associations (CFA, TICA, WCF) is almost entirely identical to the Persian standard, with the sole exception being the coat description.

• Head: Large, round, and massive with a broad skull. It’s set on a short, thick neck.
• Face: Short, broad, with a distinct stop (the transition from the forehead to the nose). Cheeks are full and round. The chin is strong and well-developed. The jaws are wide and powerful.
• Nose: Short, upturned, and wide, with the stop located between the eyes. The nose leather is large.
• Eyes: Large, round, expressive, and set wide apart. They give the face a sweet, surprised expression. Eye color should harmonize with the coat color (usually copper or dark orange, green or blue-green in chinchillas and silvers, and blue in colorpoints).
• Ears: Small, rounded at the tips, set wide and low, and slightly tilted forward. They are broad at the base.
• Body: Compact and sturdy (cobby type), with a broad chest, massive back, and shoulders. The musculature is well-developed, and the bone structure is strong.
• Legs: Short, thick, and straight. Paws are large, round, and firm. Tufts of hair between the toes are desirable.
• Tail: Short, thick, and proportional to the body, without kinks. The tip is rounded. It is covered in a dense coat that looks like a brush or a plush tube.
• Coat: The main difference from the Persian. The coat is short but very dense, plush to the touch, and stands out like a “pincushion” (not lying flat against the body). It has a rich undercoat that gives it volume. The texture is soft and silky.
• Coat Colors: All colors and patterns recognized for Persian cats are allowed. This includes solids (black, blue, red, cream, white), tortoiseshell, smoke, silver (chinchilla, shaded), tabbies (classic, mackerel, spotted), bi-colors, van, harlequin, and colorpoints (Siamese pattern).

An important characteristic is the overall harmony and balance of all body parts. The Exotic should look like a cute, round, plush teddy bear.

The Exotic Shorthair’s personality is one of its most appealing traits. They inherited the best qualities from their ancestors: the calm and sweetness of Persians and some of the playfulness and curiosity of American Shorthairs.

Key temperament traits of the Exotic:

1. Calm and Easygoing: These are very peaceful cats who are not prone to destructive behavior or hyperactivity. They appreciate comfort, quiet, and a cozy home. You’ll often find them napping on a soft couch or in their owner’s favorite armchair.
2. Affectionate and Sweet: Exotics are incredibly loving and gentle. They adore human attention, love sitting on laps, purring, and “chatting” with their owner in a soft, pleasant voice. They rarely use their claws during play or petting.
3. Loyal and Devoted: These cats are very people-oriented and form strong bonds with their families. They often choose one “favorite” owner to follow around, but they are generally good with all family members. They don’t do well with long periods of solitude.
4. Playful: Despite their general calmness, Exotics remain playful, especially when they’re young. They’ll happily play with a wand toy, a ball, or another toy, but their games are usually short and not overly frantic. Their curiosity leads them to explore new objects and corners of the house.
5. Sociable: Exotic cats generally get along very well with children due to their patient and non-aggressive nature. They are calm around other cats and friendly dogs, especially if they grew up with them. However, like many cats, they may view small rodents and birds as prey, so cohabitation with them requires caution.
6. Quiet: An Exotic’s voice is soft and low. They are not “talkative” cats and meow rarely, usually only to get attention for their needs (food, affection).
7. Intelligent: They are smart and clever animals who quickly learn household rules. They are easily litter-box trained and learn to use a scratching post.
8. Sensitive: Exotics can be somewhat sensitive to loud noises and abrupt changes in their environment. They value stability and a peaceful atmosphere.

Overall, the Exotic Shorthair is an ideal choice for people looking for a calm, gentle, and loyal companion who doesn’t require a lot of difficult grooming. They are a great fit for apartment living and for families with children or other pets.

Exotic Shorthair cats, like their Persian relatives, are prone to certain genetic and breed-specific health issues. It’s important to be aware of these potential problems to ensure your pet receives proper care and timely veterinary attention.

Main health problems common in Exotics:

• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This is the most common inherited disease in Persians and Exotics. With PKD, small cysts are present in the kidneys from birth. Over time, these cysts grow, replacing healthy kidney tissue and leading to chronic kidney failure. The disease usually appears between ages 3 and 10. Important: Responsible breeders test their breeding cats for PKD using ultrasound or a genetic test. When buying a kitten, always ask for the parents’ test results. Early diagnosis and supportive therapy can significantly improve the cat’s quality of life and lifespan.
• Brachycephalic Syndrome: Due to their characteristic short and flat face (brachycephalic skull structure), Exotics may have breathing problems. This can manifest as snoring, snorting, shortness of breath (especially with physical exertion or in hot weather), narrowed nostrils (stenosis), and an elongated soft palate. In severe cases, surgical correction may be needed. It’s important to prevent the cat from overheating and to avoid excessive physical activity.
• Eye Problems: Large, prominent eyes and the structure of the tear ducts (due to their short face) can lead to excessive tearing (epiphora). Tears can accumulate in the corners of the eyes, leaving dark tear stains on the fur and causing skin irritation. This requires regular care—daily wiping of the eyes and the areas beneath them. Exotics are also prone to entropion (inward-turning eyelids) and corneal ulcers.
• Dental Problems: An improper bite (overbite or underbite) and crowded teeth due to a shortened jaw are common in Exotics. This can lead to difficulties chewing food, rapid buildup of plaque and tartar, and gum disease (gingivitis, periodontitis). Regular oral examinations, teeth cleaning, and professional dental cleanings at the vet are very important.
• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This is a heart muscle disease found in many cat breeds, including Exotics. It’s characterized by a thickening of the heart walls, which can lead to heart failure. It’s diagnosed via a heart ultrasound (echocardiogram).
• Prone to Obesity: Exotics have a good appetite and a not-so-high activity level, making them prone to gaining extra weight. Obesity can worsen breathing problems, joint issues, and heart conditions. It’s important to control the cat’s diet and weight.
• Seborrhea: Some Exotics may be prone to an overproduction of skin oils, which can make their coat greasy and lead to skin irritation. Using special shampoos might be necessary.

Prevention:

• Choosing a Kitten: Only buy a kitten from responsible breeders who test their cats for PKD and HCM and can provide the necessary documentation.
• Regular Vet Checkups: Schedule preventative exams with your vet at least once a year (or twice a year for senior cats). This will help detect problems early.
• Vaccinations and Parasite Control: Follow the recommended schedule for vaccinations and parasite treatments.
• Proper Care: Regularly care for your cat’s eyes, coat, and teeth.
• Balanced Nutrition and Weight Control: Ensure a high-quality diet and monitor your cat’s weight to prevent obesity.
• Comfortable Environment: Avoid overheating, stress, and excessive physical exertion.

While the Exotic Shorthair is often called a “lazy person’s Persian” due to its shorter coat, it still requires regular care to look its best and feel good. Special attention should be paid to the coat, eyes, and teeth.

Coat Care

The Exotic’s coat is short, but it’s very thick and dense, with a well-developed undercoat. It stands away from the body, giving it a “plush” look. Because of this, it sheds, especially during seasonal periods (spring and fall), and can form mats, though not as intensely as a Persian’s coat.

• Brushing: It’s recommended to brush your Exotic 2-3 times a week with a fine-toothed metal comb or a special slicker brush. This will help remove dead hair and undercoat, prevent matting, and reduce the amount of loose hair in your home. During shedding season, you may need to brush more frequently, possibly daily.
• Bathing: Bathe your Exotic as needed, usually once every 1-3 months, or if the cat gets particularly dirty. Use a special cat shampoo, perhaps one that adds volume or is designed for dense coats. After bathing, thoroughly dry the cat with a towel and a hairdryer (on a low heat and power setting), while combing the fur to prevent it from clumping and to maintain its “plush” structure.

Eye Care

This is one of the most important aspects of Exotic care. Due to their brachycephalic head shape and the structure of their tear ducts, they often experience excessive tearing (epiphora).

• Daily Wiping: You must gently wipe the corners of their eyes and the areas underneath them daily (1-2 times a day) with a soft cloth, cotton pad, or a special wipe soaked in warm boiled water, saline solution, or a cat eye care lotion. This will help remove tear discharge, prevent the formation of dark tear stains, and stop skin irritation.
• Inspection: Regularly check the eyes for any redness, cloudiness, or excessive discharge. If you notice any suspicious symptoms, contact your vet.

Ear Care

Regularly (once every 1-2 weeks) check the ear flaps. Only clean them as needed if you see dirt or wax buildup. Use a cotton pad or swab soaked in a special ear cleaning solution for cats. Do not use Q-tips, as they can damage the ear canal.

Dental Care

Due to their jaw structure, Exotics are prone to dental problems. It’s recommended to brush your cat’s teeth with a special brush and toothpaste for animals several times a week. Specialized dental food and treats can also be useful for preventing tartar buildup. Regular oral exams at the vet are a must.

Nail Care

Trim the tips of their claws with special cat nail clippers approximately once every 2-4 weeks, depending on how fast they grow. Be sure to provide your cat with a scratching post so they can maintain their claws on their own.

Exotic Shorthairs are smart and calm animals, which makes the process of training and socializing them relatively easy. They don’t require complex training, but certain aspects of their upbringing are important for a comfortable coexistence.

Litter Box and Scratching Post Training

Exotics are usually very easy to litter-box train. It’s important to show the kitten where the litter box is as soon as they arrive in their new home. Keep the litter box clean, as cats are meticulous animals. Similarly, provide the kitten with a scratching post (or several different types—vertical, horizontal, cardboard) and encourage its use. If the cat tries to scratch furniture, calmly redirect them to the scratching post.

Socialization

Early socialization is important for any cat. Introduce the kitten to different people, sounds, and situations in a calm and positive manner. This will help them grow into a confident and well-adjusted cat. Exotics generally handle guests and new circumstances well if they’ve been successfully socialized. If you are interested in cat breeds that are also good with kids, check out the Scottish Fold or Chartreux.

Introductions to other household pets should be done gradually and under supervision, allowing the animals to get used to each other from a distance before allowing direct contact. Thanks to their peaceful nature, Exotics often get along well with other cats and dogs.

Play and Learning

Although Exotics aren’t overly active, they need regular playtime to stay in shape and for mental stimulation. Use interactive toys like wand teasers, laser pointers (avoid shining them in the eyes!), and balls. Short play sessions several times a day will be beneficial.

Exotics are smart enough to learn simple tricks or commands (like “sit” or “come”), especially if you use positive reinforcement (treats, praise). However, don’t expect them to be as obedient as dogs. The main thing is to build a relationship based on trust and love.

It’s important to remember an Exotic’s sensitivity. Avoid yelling and punishment during training. The best methods are patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.

Proper nutrition is the key to an Exotic Shorthair’s health and longevity. Given their predisposition to certain diseases and their tendency to gain weight, you should choose their diet carefully.

Main principles of feeding an Exotic:

• High-Quality Food: The diet should be based on high-quality commercial food (dry and/or wet) of the super-premium or holistic class. Such foods have a balanced composition and contain high-quality protein sources (meat, not by-products or plant proteins), and necessary vitamins and minerals.
• Consider Age and Condition: Choose a food that suits your cat’s age (kitten, adult, senior) and physiological state (spayed/neutered, sensitive digestion, prone to obesity, etc.). There are specialized diets for cats at risk of urinary tract disease or kidney failure, but they should only be used as directed by a vet.
• Portion and Weight Control: Exotics have a good appetite and are prone to overeating and obesity. Strictly follow the feeding guidelines on the food packaging or those calculated by your vet. Weigh your cat regularly and adjust the portion size as needed. Don’t leave food out all day; it’s better to feed them 2-3 times a day on a schedule.
• Plenty of Water: Ensure your cat has constant access to fresh, clean water. This is especially important for preventing kidney and urinary tract diseases. It’s best to place the water bowl away from the food bowl. Some cats prefer to drink from fountains.
• Wet Food: Including wet food (cans, pouches) in the diet is very beneficial because it helps maintain hydration and prevents urinary stones.
• Homemade Diet: If you choose a homemade diet, the diet must be carefully balanced by a veterinary nutritionist. It should include lean meat (beef, chicken, turkey), organ meats (heart, liver—in limited quantities), dairy products (low-fat cottage cheese, yogurt), vegetables, and sources of fatty acids. Human food is strictly forbidden!
• Treats: Treats can be given in small quantities as a reward or during playtime. Choose healthy treats specifically made for cats.

Important: When choosing a diet for your Exotic, always consider their individual needs and consult with a veterinarian.

Like any breed, the Exotic Shorthair has its pros and cons. It’s important to weigh all the “for” and “against” before getting one as a pet.

• “A Persian in Pajamas”: This is one of the cutest nicknames for Exotics, highlighting their similarity to Persians but with a shorter, almost “homey” coat.
• Is Garfield an Exotic? Although the breed of the famous lazy, orange comic cat Garfield was never officially named, many believe his appearance and personality (love for food and sleep) were inspired by the Exotic Shorthair.
• Variety of Colors: Exotics can come in over 100 different coat colors and patterns—just as many as Persian cats.
• Long-Haired Exotics: When two short-haired Exotics (who carry the long-hair gene from their Persian ancestors) are bred, they can produce long-haired kittens. In some organizations (like TICA), these cats are registered as Persians. In others (CFA), they are sometimes classified as “Long-Haired Exotics.”
• Popularity: The Exotic Shorthair consistently ranks in the top 10 most popular cat breeds in the world according to the CFA and other cat associations.
• Male Companionship: According to some breeders and owners, male Exotics are often more affectionate and gentle than females.
• Hate Closed Doors: Like many cats, Exotics are curious and like to patrol their territory, so they often can’t stand closed doors in the house.

Do Exotic Shorthairs shed a lot?
Yes, despite their short coat, Exotics shed quite noticeably due to their dense undercoat, especially in the spring and fall. Regular brushing (2-3 times a week) helps control this process.

Are Exotics good for people with allergies?
Unfortunately, Exotics are not a hypoallergenic breed. They produce the Fel d1 allergen (in their saliva and sebaceous glands), like most cats. Their dense coat can also trap allergens. People with allergies are advised to spend time with the breed before getting one to test for a reaction.

How long do Exotic Shorthair cats live?
The average lifespan of an Exotic is 12-15 years, but with proper care, good nutrition, and timely veterinary attention, they can live even longer.

Do Exotics need to go outside?
No, Exotics are ideal indoor cats who thrive exclusively in an indoor environment. They don’t need to be taken outside. Moreover, due to their trusting nature and physical traits (a flat face can make it difficult to regulate their body temperature), being outside unsupervised can be dangerous for them.

Can I leave an Exotic alone for a long time?
Exotics are very attached to their owners and do not handle long periods of solitude well. If you work a full day, it’s best for the cat not to be left alone for 10-12 hours every day. You might consider getting them a companion (another cat or dog) or ensure they have plenty of toys and attention when you get home. For long trips, it’s better to find someone to care for the cat at home rather than boarding them in an unfamiliar place.

What’s the difference between an Exotic and a British Shorthair?
Although both breeds have a sturdy build, a round head, and a dense short coat, there are significant differences. The main one is the facial structure: the Exotic has a flat face with a distinct stop (like a Persian), while the British has a round face with well-developed cheeks but without an extreme stop. The Exotic’s eyes are larger and rounder. The Exotic’s coat is softer and more “plush” than the British’s, which is more resilient. Their temperaments also differ slightly: Exotics are generally more people-dependent and affectionate, while British Shorthairs are often more independent.

Is it true that Exotics are lazy?
Exotics are indeed calm and love comfort, but they’re not entirely lazy. They have playful periods, especially when they’re young, and remain curious throughout their lives. Their activity level is simply lower than that of many other breeds.