The Exotic Shorthair is a delightful breed known for its charming looks and gentle personality. Often referred to as the "lazy man's Persian," this breed offers all the beauty of the Persian cat but with a short, manageable coat. Here's an in-depth look at the Exotic Shorthair, covering various aspects of this captivating breed.
#### Origin and History.
- **Origin**: The Exotic Shorthair was developed in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s. Breeders wanted to create a breed that had the appearance of the Persian but with a short coat. They began by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs and later introduced other breeds such as Burmese and Russian Blues to achieve the desired look. .
- **Recognition**: The breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1967. .
#### Physical Characteristics.
- **Size**: The Exotic Shorthair is a medium to large cat. They have a sturdy and muscular build with a broad chest and shoulders. .
- **Coat**: The coat is short, dense, and plush, with a soft, luxurious feel. It is easy to care for compared to the long coat of the Persian. .
- **Colors and Patterns**: Exotics come in a wide variety of colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, bicolor, calico, and more. Their colors include white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, and lilac. .
#### Temperament and Personality.
- **Affectionate**: Exotics are known for their sweet and loving nature. They enjoy being close to their human companions and often seek out lap time. .
- **Gentle**: They are gentle and laid-back, making them excellent pets for families with children and other pets. .
- **Playful**: While they are not overly energetic, Exotics enjoy playtime and can be quite playful, especially as kittens. .
#### Size and Weight.
- **Weight**: Adult Exotic Shorthairs typically weigh between 8 to 15 pounds, with males usually being larger than females. .
- **Build**: They have a cobby body type, which is compact and muscular with a broad chest and shoulders. .
#### Life Span and Health.
- **Life Span**: Exotic Shorthairs typically live between 12 to 15 years, although some may live longer with proper care. .
- **Health Issues**: They are prone to certain health issues, often similar to those seen in Persian cats due to their shared ancestry. .
- **Brachycephalic Syndrome**: Due to their flat faces, Exotics can suffer from breathing difficulties.
- **Dental Issues**: Their facial structure can also lead to dental problems. .
- **Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)**: A common genetic condition in Persians, which can also affect Exotics. .
- **Regular Vet Visits**: Regular veterinary check-ups are important to monitor and manage any potential health issues. .
#### Grooming and Care.
- **Grooming**: Their short coat is relatively low-maintenance, requiring brushing once or twice a week to remove loose hair and prevent matting. .
- **Bathing**: Occasional baths can help keep their coat clean and reduce shedding. .
- **Facial Cleaning**: Due to their flat faces, Exotics may require regular cleaning around the eyes to prevent tear staining and infections. .
#### Adaptability and Social Needs.
- **Adaptability**: Exotics adapt well to various living situations, whether in a bustling household or a quiet apartment. They are generally calm and handle changes well. .
- **Social Needs**: They are social cats that thrive on human interaction and companionship. They enjoy being around people and can become lonely if left alone for long periods. .
#### Intelligence and Training.
- **Intelligence**: Exotics are intelligent and curious. They enjoy interactive toys and puzzles that stimulate their minds. .
- **Training**: They are relatively easy to train and can learn tricks and commands with positive reinforcement. .
#### Vocalization.
- **Voice**: Exotic Shorthairs are typically quiet cats with a soft, gentle voice. They are not known for being overly vocal, but they will communicate their needs in a soft, endearing manner. .
#### Affection Level and Family Compatibility.
- **Affection Level**: Exotics are extremely affectionate and enjoy being petted and cuddled. They often seek out their owners for attention and lap time. .
- **Child Friendly**: Their gentle and tolerant nature makes them great companions for children. .
- **Dog Friendly**: Exotics generally get along well with dogs, especially if they are introduced at a young age. .
#### Kitten Prices.
- **Price Range**: The price of an Exotic Shorthair kitten can vary depending on factors such as pedigree, breeder reputation, and geographical location. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,200 and $2,200 for a pet-quality kitten. Show-quality kittens can be more expensive. .
#### Kitten Names.
- **Popular Names**: Some popular names for Exotic Shorthair kittens include: .
- For Males: Oliver, Leo, Max, Milo, Simba.
- For Females: Bella, Luna, Chloe, Daisy, Lily.
### Summary.
The Exotic Shorthair is a charming and affectionate breed that combines the beauty of the Persian with the convenience of a short coat. They are gentle, playful, and adaptable, making them ideal pets for a variety of households. With proper care, attention, and regular veterinary visits, Exotic Shorthairs can provide years of companionship and joy. Whether you are looking for a loving lap cat or a playful companion, the Exotic Shorthair is an excellent choice.