Cat Breeds
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular cat breed known for its smooth coat and affectionate nature.

Cat Breeds
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular cat breed known for its smooth coat and affectionate nature.

Cat Breeds
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular cat breed known for its smooth coat and affectionate nature.

Cat Breeds
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular cat breed known for its smooth coat and affectionate nature.

Other Names
Shorthair, British Blue
Other Names
Shorthair, British Blue
Other Names
Shorthair, British Blue
Recognized By
CFA, TICA, GCCF, FIFe, WCF
Recognized By
CFA, TICA, GCCF, FIFe, WCF
Recognized By
CFA, TICA, GCCF, FIFe, WCF
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Country of Origin
United Kingdom
Popularity in the UAE
Widely popular
Popularity in the UAE
Widely popular
Popularity in the UAE
Widely popular
Primary Traits
Companion cat, show cat
Primary Traits
Companion cat, show cat
Primary Traits
Companion cat, show cat
British Shorthair
British Shorthair
British Shorthair
Breed History
The British Shorthair is one of the oldest breeds in the world. Its beginnings originated in the United Kingdom, where it was thought to be bred with Russian Blues and Persian Cats. These cats were among the most favored during the Crystal Palace cat show, where they made a lasting impression.
Even when the Shorthair faced dwindling numbers during World War II, several dedicated breeders sought to revive the breed. Fortunately, not only were they able to do so, but they were also able to improve on the cat’s characteristics. Today, these cats continue to be a part of homes and families everywhere around the world.
The British Shorthair is one of the oldest breeds in the world. Its beginnings originated in the United Kingdom, where it was thought to be bred with Russian Blues and Persian Cats. These cats were among the most favored during the Crystal Palace cat show, where they made a lasting impression.
Even when the Shorthair faced dwindling numbers during World War II, several dedicated breeders sought to revive the breed. Fortunately, not only were they able to do so, but they were also able to improve on the cat’s characteristics. Today, these cats continue to be a part of homes and families everywhere around the world.



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Schedule their wellness check today!
Schedule their wellness check today!
Health and Medical Concerns
Cancerology
Cardiology
Dermatology
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Hematology & Immune System
Infectious Diseases
Neurology
Ophthalmology
Orthopedics
Pulmonology
Reproduction
Fibrosarcoma
These soft tissue sarcomas are aggressive cancers that come from the connective tissues of cats. Notable signs of affected cats include lumps and bumps, swelling, ulcerations, and lameness. (Dobromylskyj, 2022)
Lymphoma
This type of cancer affects the cat’s lymphatic system, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. This can be caused by genetics, viruses, and environmental factors. (Versteegh et al., 2023)
Cancerology
Cardiology
Dermatology
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Hematology & Immune System
Infectious Diseases
Neurology
Ophthalmology
Orthopedics
Pulmonology
Reproduction
Fibrosarcoma
These soft tissue sarcomas are aggressive cancers that come from the connective tissues of cats. Notable signs of affected cats include lumps and bumps, swelling, ulcerations, and lameness. (Dobromylskyj, 2022)
Lymphoma
This type of cancer affects the cat’s lymphatic system, leading to symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in appetite. This can be caused by genetics, viruses, and environmental factors. (Versteegh et al., 2023)
Health and Medical Concerns
Cancerology
Cancerology
Cancerology
Cardiology
Cardiology
Cardiology
Dermatology
Dermatology
Dermatology
Endocrinology
Endocrinology
Endocrinology
Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology
Gastroenterology
Hematology & Immune System
Hematology & Immune System
Hematology & Immune System
Infectious Diseases
Infectious Diseases
Infectious Diseases
Neurology
Neurology
Neurology
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology
Ophthalmology
Orthopedics
Orthopedics
Orthopedics
Pulmonology
Pulmonology
Pulmonology
Reproduction
Reproduction
Reproduction
Temperament and Common Traits
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Personality
British Shorthairs are known for being calm and affectionate without being too clingy. They love human companionship, but they can also tolerate being alone for a few hours.
Distinct Habits
These cats prefer a cozy spot rather than play. While they do love human affection, they would rather be on the side than be the main center of attention.
Vocalization Level
Low. British Blues are generally quiet cats, only vocalizing in times of need.
Energy Level
Moderately active. While they do enjoy times of play, they prefer short bursts of activity to prolonged ones.
Suitability for Homes
British Shorthair cats are well-suited to indoor homes and comfortable spaces. They are great for families.
Lifespan
The average lifespan of a British Shorthair ranges from 12 to 20 years.
The shortest they can live is 9 years, while the longest they can live is 20 years. Cola was the oldest British Shorthair to live at the age of 28.
The shortest they can live is 9 years, while the longest they can live is 20 years. Cola was the oldest British Shorthair to live at the age of 28.
Training and Care



Trainability
These cats are intelligent and quick learners. They can easily be trained, especially when a consistent routine is followed.
Exercise Requirements
Grooming Needs
Living Conditions
Trainability
These cats are intelligent and quick learners. They can easily be trained, especially when a consistent routine is followed.
Exercise Requirements
Grooming Needs
Living Conditions
Trainability
These cats are intelligent and quick learners. They can easily be trained, especially when a consistent routine is followed.
Exercise Requirements
Grooming Needs
Living Conditions
Trainability
These cats are intelligent and quick learners. They can easily be trained, especially when a consistent routine is followed.
Exercise Requirements
Grooming Needs
Living Conditions
Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
British Shorthairs are not suited for extreme heat. They have dense coats that can make them prone to overheating in high temperatures.
Precautions
The best way to keep your British Shorthair comfortable is to let them stay indoors, away from the heat. Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
British Shorthairs are not suited for extreme heat. They have dense coats that can make them prone to overheating in high temperatures.
Precautions
The best way to keep your British Shorthair comfortable is to let them stay indoors, away from the heat. Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
British Shorthairs are not suited for extreme heat. They have dense coats that can make them prone to overheating in high temperatures.
Precautions
The best way to keep your British Shorthair comfortable is to let them stay indoors, away from the heat. Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Breed Info in the UAE
Adaptability
Legalities
Availability
Heat Sensitivity
British Shorthairs are not suited for extreme heat. They have dense coats that can make them prone to overheating in high temperatures.
Precautions
The best way to keep your British Shorthair comfortable is to let them stay indoors, away from the heat. Make sure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Diet & Nutrition
Dietary Needs
British Shorthair cats need a diet consisting of high-quality protein. Controlled portions should be given to prevent obesity.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes
Dietary Needs
British Shorthair cats need a diet consisting of high-quality protein. Controlled portions should be given to prevent obesity.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes
Dietary Needs
British Shorthair cats need a diet consisting of high-quality protein. Controlled portions should be given to prevent obesity.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes
Dietary Needs
British Shorthair cats need a diet consisting of high-quality protein. Controlled portions should be given to prevent obesity.
Sensitivities
Food Types
Portion Sizes



Suitability as a Pet
Ideal Owners
British Shorthairs are perfect for families and singles who want something low-maintenance. They are great for households with a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
British Shorthairs are perfect for families and singles who want something low-maintenance. They are great for households with a calm and relaxed atmosphere.
This cat breed is generally good with cats and other pets because of its calm demeanor.
This cat breed is generally good with cats and other pets because of its calm demeanor.
Compatibility with Children & Pets
First-Time Owner Friendly
Yes. British Shorthairs are good options for first-time cat owners because they are easy to train and care for.
Yes. British Shorthairs are good options for first-time cat owners because they are easy to train and care for.
Physical Characteristics



Head
Head
Head
The British Shorthair cat has a large, round head with full cheeks and a short nose.
The British Shorthair cat has a large, round head with full cheeks and a short nose.
Eyes
Eyes
Eyes
Their eyes are round and prominent, with colors varying from blue to gold, copper, and orange.
Their eyes are round and prominent, with colors varying from blue to gold, copper, and orange.
Ears
Ears
Ears
The ears are medium-sized and slightly rounded at the tips.
The ears are medium-sized and slightly rounded at the tips.
Body
Body
Body
British Shorthairs have a compact, muscular, and well-balanced body with a broad chest and short back.
British Shorthairs have a compact, muscular, and well-balanced body with a broad chest and short back.
Limbs
Limbs
Limbs
Their legs are short and have round, firm paws.
Their legs are short and have round, firm paws.
Tail
Tail
Tail
The tail is thick at the base and has a lot of fur.
The tail is thick at the base and has a lot of fur.
Coat
Coat
Coat
The British Shorthair’s coat is short and dense. Classic colors come in blue, black, and lilac, while less common colors are cream, chocolate, cinnamon, and fawn.
The British Shorthair’s coat is short and dense. Classic colors come in blue, black, and lilac, while less common colors are cream, chocolate, cinnamon, and fawn.
Size
Size
Size
Both males and females can reach a height of 30-46 cm (12-14 inches).
Both males and females can reach a height of 30-46 cm (12-14 inches).
Weight
Weight
Weight
Males: 4.1-7.7 kg (9-17 lbs), Females: 3.2-5.4 kg (7-12 lbs).
Males: 4.1-7.7 kg (9-17 lbs), Females: 3.2-5.4 kg (7-12 lbs).



Bengal Cat
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British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a popular cat breed known for its smooth coat and affectionate nature.



Exotic Shorthair
Known as the “Lazy Man’s Persian,” the Exotic Shorthair is a sweet cat with a distinct teddy bear look.
Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.
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© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.
Services
Contact Us
DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm
Jumeirah -
Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm
© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
Unique care for your best friends, because they’re family.
Services
Contact Us
DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm
Jumeirah -
Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm
© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
Contact Us
DIP - 8am to 9pm
JLT - 10am to 7pm
Jumeirah -
Mon-Fri: 8am to 8pm
Sat-Sun: 9am to 6pm
© 2025 Noble Veterinary Clinics
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