Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair emerged from a crossbreeding programme initiated in the United States in the 1950s, when breeder Carolyn Bussey began crossing Persians with American Shorthairs with the aim of improving the American Shorthair standard. The results of these crosses produced kittens with the physical type of the Persian but with the short and dense coat of the American Shorthair.

Initially these specimens were shown as improved American Shorthairs, but other breeders soon recognised that they were a different type with their own characteristics. In 1966, the CFA (Cat Fanciers' Association) accepted the Exotic Shorthair as an independent breed. Subsequent crosses with Burmese and Russian Blues helped to broaden the gene pool and consolidate the type.

Today, the Exotic Shorthair is one of the most popular breeds in the world. Its popularity has also been boosted by the character of Garfield, the famous comic-strip cat, whose appearance is largely based on the Exotic Shorthair.

The Exotic Shorthair has the same physical type as the Persian: cobby body (compact and muscular), short and thick limbs, large round head with the characteristically flat face — brachycephaly — and large, round and widely-spaced eyes that give it a permanently surprised and innocent expression.

The main difference from the Persian is the coat: short, dense and fluffy, with a texture reminiscent of a soft toy. This coat is much easier to maintain than the Persian's long coat, although it still requires regular grooming due to the abundance of its undercoat. Colours and patterns are equally varied.

Temperamentally, the Exotic Shorthair is a sweet, calm and very affectionate cat. It is less vocal than other breeds and expresses its affection in a subtle way: following its owner around the house, purring gently or simply remaining in their company. It is extremely adaptable, equally happy in small flats as in large houses.

Although the Exotic Shorthair's coat is much shorter than the Persian's, its abundant undercoat requires brushing two to three times a week with a fine comb to prevent the build-up of dead hair. Bathing can be done monthly or as needed.

One of the most specific care requirements of the Exotic Shorthair is the daily cleaning of the eye ducts: its flat face causes the tear ducts to be compressed, generating an excessive tear flow that can stain the coat and cause irritation. Gentle daily cleaning with a damp cloth prevents these complications.

The Exotic Shorthair is a sedentary cat that does not require large spaces or intense exercise. However, daily interactive play is important to stimulate it mentally and prevent overweight, to which this breed is prone. Nutrition must be high quality and calorie-controlled.

Brachycephalic problems arising from its flat face (breathing difficulty, snoring, heat intolerance) are the main health concern in the Exotic Shorthair. In the most serious cases surgical correction may be needed. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a relatively common hereditary condition; today it can be detected by genetic testing and responsible breeders certify that their breeding animals are PKD-negative.

Dental problems and malocclusion are frequent due to the compression of the facial structure. Regular dental check-ups and preventive dental brushing are recommended from kittenhood. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) also has a higher prevalence in breeds descended from the Persian.

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