British Shorthair Cat Guide
About the British Shorthair cat breed
Weight: 4 - 8 kg
Wither height: 25 - 30 cm
Energy level: Calm
Lifespan: 12 - 20 years
Social need: Medium
Colours:Available in many different colours – like blue, white, cream, and golden – as well as various patterns.
Health problems: Generally healthy, but can be prone to genetic conditions like Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) and issues with joints and bones.
Personality of the British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a calm, loyal, and friendly breed that makes an excellent indoor cat. They form strong bonds with their people, are wonderfully cuddly companions, and get along well with other pets. Unlike many other breeds, British Shorthairs aren't overly demanding of attention and are happy to entertain themselves with play. However, despite being a quiet and independent cat, they still need regular activity to stay happy and healthy.
Appearance and grooming of the British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is a compact, sturdy, and muscular cat. With its thick, plush fur, it truly resembles a teddy bear. The coat is short, dense, lies close to the body, and is easy to care for. A weekly brush will help minimise loose hair around your home and keep their coat looking its best.
Health concerns for British Shorthairs
British Shorthairs are generally a healthy breed. However, their robust build means their joints and bones can be easily stressed. It's therefore important to ensure they maintain a healthy weight and get enough exercise. Alongside potential joint and skeletal issues, they can also develop genetic conditions such as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), a common heart condition in cats. HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken, which can affect its function.
Weight management
Overweight is a common issue for cats today, and British Shorthairs, in particular, can be prone to becoming overweight, leading to joint and skeletal problems. Being overweight also increases the risk of many common feline diseases. You'll need to help your cat maintain a healthy weight – find out more in the Lassie app.
Dental health
Did you know your cat needs their teeth brushed? Daily brushing is the best way to prevent gum disease (periodontitis). Learn more in our app. FORL, a dental condition, is common in cats and often occurs alongside periodontitis. Brushing your cat's teeth can be a challenge, but with treats and plenty of patience, they'll eventually get used to it. Discover how to brush your cat's teeth in our app course.
Poisoning risks
Many everyday items can be toxic to cats – some might surprise you! For instance, certain plants can be harmful. Find out which plants are poisonous to your cat in the Lassie app. Other common household dangers include chocolate and pest control products like mouse and rat poison. Always store anything hazardous to cats securely out of their reach.
