The Calm Personality of Exotic Shorthair Cats
When searching for a feline companion with a calm and affectionate demeanor, the Exotic Shorthair often tops the list. Developed as a short-haired version of the Persian, the Exotic Shorthair combines the beloved traits of the Persian with a more manageable coat and a slightly livelier temperament. Here's an in-depth look at what makes the Exotic Shorthair one of the calmest and most endearing cat breeds.
Breed Origins and Background
The Exotic Shorthair originated in the late 1950s and early 1960s when American Shorthair breeders sought to combine the silver coat and green eyes of Persians with a shorthaired gene pool. Through a series of careful crossbreeding—initially with Persians, and later selectively with Russian Blue and Burmese cats—the breed achieved a look remarkably similar to the Persian, sans the long fur.
Recognition: The Exotic Shorthair was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in 1966. Since then, continued breeding with Persians has further solidified the Exotic’s close resemblance to its long-haired ancestor.
Physical Characteristics
Exotic Shorthairs are medium to large cats with:
- Large, round heads and full cheeks
- Big, round eyes that radiate a sweet expression
- Short, plush coats that come in many Persian colors
- Stocky, muscular bodies with short legs and thick necks
- A short, bushy tail and overall roundness of frame
Despite their appearance, they are usually big-boned and not overweight.
Temperament and Behavior
Renowned for their calm disposition, Exotic Shorthairs are:
- Gentle and affectionate – They enjoy human company and form strong bonds.
- Quiet and soft-voiced – They meow softly and rely on expressive eyes for communication.
- Playful but not hyperactive – More energetic than Persians, but still enjoy lounging.
- Good with families – They get along well with respectful children and other pets.
Their affectionate nature makes them ideal lap cats. They like following their humans around and being involved in daily activities without being demanding.
Grooming and Maintenance
Thanks to their short coat, Exotic Shorthairs require less grooming than Persians, but they still benefit from weekly brushing:
- Weekly brushing prevents matting and removes loose hair.
- More frequent brushing may be needed during seasonal shedding periods.
- Eye cleaning: Due to their flat faces, tear stains can form. Cleaning the eyes daily with a damp cloth is recommended.
- Ear checks and dental hygiene should be part of basic grooming.
- Tail area cleaning might be necessary due to grooming limitations related to body structure.
Health Considerations
Because of their brachycephalic features (short face), Exotic Shorthairs are prone to several hereditary conditions:
- Brachycephalic airway syndrome: Can affect breathing and heat tolerance.
- Eye and tear duct issues: Increased risks of staining and infections.
- Dental issues: Crowded teeth due to skull shape.
- Skin fold dermatitis in facial wrinkles.
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): A genetic condition leading to kidney failure. DNA screening for breeders is available.
- Birthing difficulties due to skull shape.
- Risk of obesity especially in sedentary indoor cats.
Early health screening and routine veterinary care are vital for this breed.
Lifestyle and Suitability
The Exotic Shorthair thrives in calm, indoor environments. While not overly athletic or agile, they enjoy simple games and appreciate companionship. They are ideal for:
- Single pet owners who crave a quiet and loyal companion
- Families with older children or other gentle pets
- Apartment living, due to their low activity levels and quiet demeanor
If left alone for extended periods, Exotics appreciate the company of another pet to reduce loneliness.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a calm, loyal, and aesthetically unique cat, the Exotic Shorthair may be the perfect match. Their gentle nature, love of people, and relatively easy grooming needs make them especially appealing to first-time cat owners and seasoned feline enthusiasts alike. While they do require attention to health and grooming due to their facial structure, their affectionate personality and round, teddy bear appearance more than make up for the extra care. With proper love, companionship, and care, Exotic Shorthairs bring tranquility and joy into any home.
