Is the Exotic Shorthair a Purebred Cat?
The Exotic Shorthair is indeed a purebred cat breed, developed as a short-haired version of the Persian. It combines the elegance and serene temperament of Persians with a more manageable coat type. Recognized by major cat associations, this breed has earned a distinct place among purebred felines.
Breed Origins
The breed began development in the late 1950s and early 1960s when American Shorthair breeders began crossing their cats with Persians to achieve a plush coat and desirable Persian traits. Further breed refinements introduced genes from Russian Blue and Burmese cats. Over time, the Exotic Shorthair acquired nearly all Persian features, except for its coat length. By 1966, the Cat Fanciers' Association recognized the Exotic Shorthair as a distinct breed.
Physical Characteristics
The Exotic Shorthair resembles the Persian in build and temperament but is distinguished by its short, dense, and plush coat. These cats are medium to large in size, with a stocky, heavily boned build. They are known for:
- Large, round heads and full cheeks
- Short noses and flattened faces
- Small, rounded ears set low on the head
- Thick necks and short, powerful legs
- Large, round paws and a short, bushy tail
The hallmark of an Exotic is roundness and substance, giving it an endearing, plush look often perceived as overweight but actually indicating strong musculature.
Temperament and Personality
Exotic Shorthairs are gentle, affectionate, and loyal. They closely follow their owners and enjoy lounging on laps. While calmer than most cats, they are more playful and lively than Persians, making them suitable for families with older children or quiet households. They also get along with well-mannered pets and communicate more through expressive eyes than vocalizations.
Grooming Needs
Although their coat is shorter than the Persian's, the Exotic Shorthair still requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. During shedding seasons, more frequent grooming is beneficial. Due to their flat faces, Exotics cannot groom hard-to-reach areas and need human help in maintaining hygiene. Owners should:
- Wipe corners of the eyes daily to prevent staining and monitor infection
- Check and clean ears regularly
- Maintain good dental hygiene
- Clean under the tail when needed
Health and Genetic Considerations
As purebreds, Exotic Shorthairs can suffer from inherited health issues, many linked to their brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure and Persian ancestry. Common health concerns include:
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome – Causes breathing difficulties and poor heat tolerance.
- Watery Eyes and Tear Staining – Due to malformed tear ducts.
- Dental and Jaw Deformities – Can create feeding and grooming challenges.
- Skin Fold Dermatitis – Infections in facial wrinkles.
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) – Inherited kidney condition; breeders should screen for this.
- Dystocia – Birthing difficulty due to large, rounded skulls.
- Heart Disease (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy – HCM) and obesity-related complications
Regular veterinary check-ups, DNA screening in breeding cats, preventive care, and a healthy diet can help manage these risks.
Coat and Eye Colors
Exotic Shorthairs come in all standard Persian colors and patterns such as:
- Solids
- Tabbies
- Bicolors
- Calicos
- Colorpoints (Himalayan)
- Smoke patterns
Eye color is usually brilliant copper, but white or colorpoint cats may have blue or odd-colored eyes.
Lifestyle Needs
Exotics are best suited for indoor living. They are not natural athletes or jumpers and prefer slow-paced environments. Owners should provide enough stimulation to avoid obesity and encourage gentle play. Toys, scratching posts, and short play sessions work well.
Suitability as Pets
Thanks to their calm demeanor and low exercise needs, Exotic Shorthairs make ideal companions for:
- Individuals or couples seeking low-energy pets
- Families with older children
- Multiple-pet households, especially with another quiet animal
They thrive on companionship and can develop anxiety when left alone for long hours, so having another pet or frequent human company is recommended.
Conclusion
The Exotic Shorthair is a purebred cat breed combining Persian-like aesthetics with a shorter, manageable coat. While they require regular grooming and careful health monitoring, they offer a delightful mix of playfulness, loyalty, and comfort-loving temperament. Their gentle nature makes them perfect for cozy households and cat lovers seeking an affectionate lap companion.
