10 Important Facts To Know About The British Shorthairs as Pets

If you’re thinking of adding a new pet to your family, choosing a British Shorthair is a wonderful choice. These cats are not only incredibly cute with their plush coats and friendly, round faces, but they also have a remarkably easygoing nature. In all my years of being a cat owner, I have rarely come across a breed with a sweeter disposition.

I absolutely love British Shorthairs for their delightful personalities, stunning appearances, and their overall low-maintenance nature. These cats are a breeze to take care of, making them an ideal choice for pet owners seeking a fuss-free companion. With their charming looks and friendly dispositions, it’s no wonder that British Shorthairs have gained immense popularity worldwide.

Having said all that, it is important to consider some key points if you are contemplating getting a British Shorthair as a pet.

It is likely that you have come to this page with several questions in mind.

• How should you choose a British Shorthair?
• How long do they live?
• Where can you buy one?
• What do they eat?

Rest assured, we have all the answers to your questions and a wealth of additional valuable information. So, stay tuned and keep reading to learn more.

10 Facts about british shorthair cats

1. It is highly recommended that you purchase your British Shorthair from a registered breeder or another reputable source

Although backyard breeders may offer kittens at lower prices, it is not worth the potential risks and complications that may arise. When you purchase a British Shorthair from a reputable breeder, they have likely already covered many of the initial medical expenses, including spaying or neutering, early vaccinations, and necessary tests. 

This level of care and support ensures that your kitten has received proper attention and a healthy start in life. On the other hand, obtaining a kitten from a dubious cattery may result in a lack of support and potential health issues for your new pet. 

Although not all individuals who engage in backyard breeding mistreat their animals, a significant number of them do. These breeders view their cats not as sentient beings with unique requirements and characteristics, but simply as a means to generate profit.

These breeders often excessively breed their female cats, neglecting their well-being. Furthermore, the living conditions for the kittens they produce are often extremely substandard. 

Unregistered breeders also demonstrate negligence when it comes to testing for hereditary disorders or preventing excessive inbreeding, resulting in numerous kittens being born with severe defects that may not be immediately apparent when adopting them. Dealing with the consequent veterinary expenses and the emotional distress of raising an unhealthy or impaired kitten outweigh any potential benefits. It simply isn’t worth it.

By choosing to support backyard breeders, you inadvertently contribute to an industry that is riddled with ethical concerns, perpetuating the harmful cycle. 

Instead, I encourage you to seek out a reputable registered breeder who may have kittens available for adoption. While Pedigree British Shorthair kittens can be pricey, if you’re seeking a pet quality kitten rather than one for show purposes, they tend to be more affordable. 

Another option worth considering is adopting a mature British Shorthair from a compassionate owner who can no longer care for their pet. Additionally, you could explore the possibility of adopting a retired show animal or former breeding cat.

Read Also: Are British Shorthairs Cats Friendly?

2. British Shorthairs Can Live For 20 Years

By welcoming a British Shorthair into your life, you’re embarking on a long-term companionship that could span several decades. While the average lifespan of these cats is approximately 12 years, it’s worth noting that they frequently live well into their late teens and even reach their 20s. 

To promote a prolonged and vibrant life for your British Shorthair, it’s important to provide a balanced diet, schedule yearly check-ups with the veterinarian, and ensure she receives ample mental and physical stimulation through play and exercise.

This implies that your British Shorthair could potentially spend a significant portion of her life in the senior stage. Adopting any cat entails a profound and enduring commitment, and when it comes to British Shorthairs, this responsibility becomes even more pronounced. 

It is crucial to assess whether you are capable of providing for a senior cat’s needs over the long haul. This may involve making contingency plans for alternative caretakers in case you are unable to continue caring for your pet at some point in the future.

Read Also: Can Cats Eat Vegetables?

3. British Shorthairs Have Few Health Problems

In addition to their lengthy lifespans, British Shorthair cats also tend to enjoy good overall health. While they may be susceptible to the same conditions as other domestic cats, they typically have robust constitutions and lack breed-specific health concerns. 

One health issue that can affect British Shorthairs is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, with males being more prone to this condition than females. 

Male British Shorthairs can also be prone to haemophilia, a genetic condition. However, responsible breeders should perform a genetic test to identify this condition. 

It’s worth noting that PKD (polycystic kidney disease) has been a historical concern for British Shorthairs, but concerted breeding efforts have significantly reduced its prevalence. As a result, it has become less common among the breed.

Read Also: Do Cats Kill & Eat Squirrels?

4: British Shorthairs Can Get Very Large

The British Shorthair is certainly not a small cat breed. In fact, it falls into the category of “medium to large” breeds. These cats can reach notable sizes, particularly the males. It’s not uncommon for a male British Shorthair to exceed 8 kilograms (18 pounds) in weight. 

When acquiring supplies for your British Shorthair, it’s essential to consider their larger size. This applies to litter boxes, cat enclosures, and especially pet carriers. All equipment should be chosen with the dimensions of a larger feline in mind. 

It’s important to keep in mind that British Shorthair kittens can quickly outgrow their initial equipment, so it’s wise to factor this in when you’re shopping for your feline companion.

You have a couple of options when it comes to purchasing supplies for your British Shorthair. You can either opt for smaller and more affordable items with the intention of replacing them as your kitten grows, or you can start off with larger-sized items right from the beginning. 

It’s important to note that British Shorthairs experience most of their growth within the first year, but they can continue to grow for another three to five years. It’s not unusual for a three-year-old male British Shorthair to weigh around 7 kilograms (15 pounds) and still be in the process of growing both vertically and horizontally. While females are generally smaller than males, they still tend to have a sturdy and robust physique.

It’s advisable not to leave food out freely for your British Shorthair. Although it may seem convenient to have a bowl of dry kibble available for them to graze on, it’s preferable to provide two to three modest portions of high-quality wet food throughout the day. 

It’s important to resist the urge to offer excessive snacks and treats as they can quickly contribute to calorie overload. Instead, consider using a little catnip as a reward or engaging your British Shorthair with a fun toy to divert their attention. Avoid feeding your cat directly from your plate, as “people food” is often unsuitable for feline consumption. Additionally, be cautious with dairy products, as they can upset your British Shorthair’s stomach.

5: British Shorthairs Tend Not To Be Lap Cats

The British Shorthair breed is known for its loyalty and affection, although if you have high expectations for extended periods of lap time and cuddles, you may be slightly disappointed. This breed tends to prefer sitting near you rather than directly on your lap. 

However, there are exceptions to this general behavior. I have encountered a few British Shorthairs who were practically glued to their owners’ knees and needed some effort to be gently removed. 

In general, British Shorthair owners should anticipate a form of independent companionship rather than overt displays of physical affection. Your British Shorthair will likely enjoy being in your presence and may choose to accompany you around the house, observing your actions from a suitable vantage point or following closely behind you as you move from one room to another. 

One remarkable trait of the British Shorthair breed is their ability to learn and recognize your schedule. It’s quite common for a contently napping British Shorthair to suddenly rise and position themselves by the door, anticipating the imminent return of a family member. 

While some people may perceive this breed as aloof, they are simply independent and have their unique ways of expressing affection. It’s important not to forcefully insist on scooping up your cat for cuddles, as this can cause distress and potentially make her avoid you altogether. 

Instead, allow your cat to approach you on her terms when seeking affection and companionship.

6: British Shorthairs Are Quiet, Low-Activity Cats

If you desire a calm and gentle house-cat that won’t constantly cause disturbances, the British Shorthair is an ideal choice. With its composed demeanor and serene disposition, this breed is renowned for its quiet and relaxed nature. The British Shorthair is famously non-destructive, unlike more active cat breeds that may engage in excessive scratching and spraying behaviors. 

In my experience with British Shorthair companions, they have demonstrated excellent manners by refraining from clawing or damaging household items, focusing their scratching on designated posts and their chewing on designated toys. 

On the other hand, my friends who own other breeds often find themselves dealing with chewed door-frames, shredded curtains, and torn upholstery, creating a chaotic environment.

When people inquire about how I manage to maintain my furniture in good condition despite having cats, I simply attribute it to the “code of the British Shorthair.” Instances of furniture damage are infrequent and typically linked to significant emotional distress. 

I recall a particular incident when one of my British Shorthair females scratched the spines of my cookbooks after her brother went missing. This behavior was entirely out of character for her, and she acted out of extreme anxiety and emotional turmoil.

The British Shorthair is generally known for being a relatively quiet breed in terms of vocalizations. While they do meow, it’s worth noting that there is variation within the breed. Contrary to the stereotype of silent British Shorthairs, I have encountered some individuals who were champion talkers and had a lot to say. However, overall, British Shorthairs tend to possess soft and sweet voices, lending a gentle and pleasant quality to their vocalizations.

The downside of the British Shorthair’s naturally low-energy and less active nature is the potential development of health issues associated with their sedentary lifestyle. If left to their own devices, they can easily become devoted couch potatoes, especially as they enter their senior years around the age of seven.

As a responsible pet owner, it falls upon you to ensure that your British Shorthair receives adequate exercise and stimulation to maintain good physical condition. Creating an enriched environment is key to achieving this. Providing a variety of engaging toys, cat trees, and habitats for climbing and exploration, as well as engaging in regular playtime with your feline companion, will help keep her mentally and physically active.

To ensure that your British Shorthair stays active and healthy, it is recommended to provide at least two sessions of physical playtime, lasting around 15 minutes each. Given the breed’s inclination to curl up and snooze, it’s essential to tap into their powerful prey drive. British Shorthairs possess a strong hunting instinct, which can be utilized to encourage them to engage in physical activity.

Engaging your British Shorthair in playtime can be highly effective in keeping them active. When using a teaser toy, it’s important to mimic the movements of a prey animal, rather than aimlessly flailing it around. You can create a puppet show-like experience by dangling the toy overhead, imitating a bird in flight, or dragging it slowly along the ground to simulate prey movement. If your cat doesn’t respond to one toy, don’t hesitate to try different options, such as a crinkle ball, a small bell, or even a dollop of food on the end of a long spoon for chasing. The key is to encourage movement and stimulation.

Offering multiple play sessions throughout the day is a preferred approach. For example, you can initiate one session of teaser-toy play before leaving for work, another when you return home, and a final energetic play session before bedtime.

The evening play session serves as a way to exhaust my British Shorthairs and prevent the younger one from bothering me during the night. During weekends, there are additional chances for enjoyable activities. Engaging in such physical activity helps maintain the muscles and joints of your British Shorthair, while also lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart or lung problems. If you have limited mobility or lack the energy for extensive play, you can use a fishing-pole toy that can be operated while sitting down or provide motorized toys for your cat to chase.

7: British Shorthairs Are Intelligent

Although I have encountered cats that are considered more intellectually adept (such as Bengals, who are true masterminds), British Shorthairs certainly rank highly in terms of feline intelligence. However, their intelligence doesn’t typically lead them into mischief, unlike breeds known for their mischievous nature like Burmese or the cunning Siamese cats. Some cats with higher IQs seem determined to employ their cleverness in discovering new and increasingly vexing ways to frustrate their owners. They might train themselves to open doors, manipulate electrical appliances, or even raid the fridge. 

The British Shorthair, being more inclined towards sober intellectual pursuits, finds enjoyment in activities such as puzzle toys and learning new games. Due to their lower energy levels, they are less prone to boredom compared to other cats and possess a talent for entertaining themselves without getting into trouble. Nevertheless, a responsible British Shorthair owner recognizes the importance of keeping their cats mentally stimulated and actively engages them in games and activities that challenge their intelligence.

Teaching your British Shorthair new skills can be both beneficial for you and your cat. The breed is highly trainable, and with a bit of patience, you can teach them various tricks and commands. One notable example is playing games of fetch, where they chase after a soft fabric ball and bring it back to you for another throw, displaying an almost dog-like behavior.

Harness training and teaching your British Shorthair to come when called are valuable skills that you can teach your cat. One effective method for training is using clicker training. This involves associating a specific action with the sound of a clicker and rewarding your cat with a small treat, such as a bit of catnip, when she performs the desired behavior. Clicker training can be used to teach various commands and tricks.

For instance, you can use the clicker to train your British Shorthair to give you a high-five or perform other cute tricks.

8: British Shorthairs Should Be Kept As Indoor Cats

To be completely honest, allowing your British Shorthair to roam freely outdoors is not a wise decision. I hold this opinion for all cats, regardless of their breed or pedigree. It’s crucial to keep all cats, even mixed-breed cats, safely indoors to prevent them from encountering potential dangers such as traffic accidents or fights with other animals.

Furthermore, it’s important to acknowledge that cats, including British Shorthairs, have a natural hunting instinct. If given the opportunity, they can cause a significant impact on local wildlife populations. Even though British Shorthairs may exhibit sweetness and docility in their demeanor, they are equally capable of hunting with ferocity. Collars with high-visibility features and bells can offer some level of warning to songbirds and small mammals, but they have limitations.

It’s worth noting that the mere presence of a cat, including a British Shorthair, can disrupt nesting habits and have an impact on wildlife even if the cat doesn’t actively hunt or make kills. This disturbance can be detrimental to local bird populations and other wildlife species.

Additionally, British Shorthairs are highly sought-after pedigree cats with significant monetary value.

The high value and desirability of British Shorthairs make them potential targets for opportunistic thieves who prioritize personal gain over the emotional impact of someone losing a beloved pet. This unfortunate reality underscores the importance of preventing your British Shorthair from wandering outside.

Despite their size and resilience, as descendants of working domestics, British Shorthairs are not invulnerable to harm. They deserve the security and safety of an indoor life, where they can be protected from potential dangers such as theft, accidents, or encounters with other animals.

If you desire to provide your British Shorthair with the enjoyment of the outdoors while mitigating the risks of encounters with dangerous dogs, predators, or careless drivers, there are alternative options to consider. One option is setting up an outdoor enclosure or investing in a portable cat pen. These enclosures allow your British Shorthair to roam and play in a controlled and safe environment without getting into trouble or being exposed to external risks.

Another possibility, especially for patient and trainable British Shorthairs, is walking them on a lead. It is important to use a body harness instead of a collar, as collars can be easily escaped from and may potentially harm the cat when used with a lead.

9: British Shorthairs Are Fantastic With Children, Dogs And Other Cats

The British Shorthair breed is known for its remarkable patience, calmness, and loving nature. They readily form bonds with children and can tolerate a certain amount of rough play without becoming skittish or aggressive. When a British Shorthair feels upset or angry, they are more likely to remove themselves from the situation rather than resorting to biting or swatting with their claws.

However, it is important to always supervise small children around pets. It is essential to teach children that a pet is not a toy and to encourage them to empathize and imagine how they would feel if they were in the cat’s position. By framing it in this manner, children often grasp the concept quickly and understand the importance of treating animals with respect and gentleness.

A British Shorthair can indeed make a great playmate for a cat-friendly child. The child’s abundant energy and love for fun can help counterbalance the British Shorthair’s potential indolence as they age. Teaching children how to engage in effective play with teaser toys can be beneficial. Their enthusiasm and creativity enable them to excel in role-playing as a “bird” or “mouse” for the cat to hunt during play sessions.

The British Shorthair has a positive reputation for getting along well with other animals, including both other cats and dogs. However, when introducing a British Shorthair to a dog, it’s important to exercise caution and ensure that the dog has been properly socialized to interact with cats without displaying aggression. This socialization process is best done when the dog is still a puppy.

It is crucial to teach your dog to respect and leave the cat alone. While an overly friendly dog may not mean any harm, their enthusiastic behavior can still cause stress for the cat. It’s essential to recognize that dogs, regardless of their size, pose a genuine existential threat to cats. Even small dog breeds tend to be larger than a British Shorthair, unless you have a miniature breed like a Chihuahua or a similarly petite dog.

When introducing a British Shorthair cat to a dog, it’s important to proceed with caution and perform the introductions carefully. Here are some steps to consider:

• Initially, keep the cat and dog in separate rooms for the first day or two. This allows them to become familiar with each other’s smells and sounds without direct contact.
• Introduce them visually from behind a safe barrier. You can place the cat in a carrier or the dog in a crate, or use a sturdy baby gate to separate them while allowing them to see each other. This gradual exposure helps them become accustomed to each other’s presence.
• Never leave the dog and cat alone together without supervision until you are certain they will get along well. This ensures the safety of both animals and allows you to intervene if any issues arise.
• If you have multiple cats, provide additional equipment such as extra litter boxes, food bowls, and resting areas. This helps prevent competition and territorial disputes among the cats.

To ensure a harmonious living environment for multiple British Shorthair cats, it is essential to provide an adequate number of toys and sufficient space for them to enjoy. Each cat should have access to their own toys and play areas to prevent conflicts. Additionally, it is crucial to have an appropriate number of litter boxes available. The general guideline is to provide one litter box per cat, plus an additional one.

When it comes to interacting with other cats, British Shorthairs generally make excellent companions. They have a calm and patient demeanor, which makes them less prone to territorial aggression compared to some other breeds. This quality makes them an ideal choice for both first-time pet owners and those who already have a cat that struggles with being alone at home during the day. The composed and self-assured nature of the British Shorthair can help ease the anxiety of more nervous felines. While they value their independence and are content when left without human supervision, they can also provide companionship and be a source of comfort for other cats in the household.

When introducing two or more British Shorthairs to each other, it is important to proceed with care and follow a gradual introduction process. Similar to introducing dogs, you should initially keep the cats in separate rooms to allow them to become familiar with each other’s scent. After a day or two, start feeding them in separate areas but within sight of each other, using a secure barrier like a baby gate. 

This allows the cats to associate the presence of the other cat with positive experiences during mealtime. Repeat this process a few times until they seem comfortable in each other’s presence. Once you have observed positive interactions and a sense of familiarity, you can supervise their playtime together.

Once you have observed that your British Shorthairs can spend time together without any conflicts, it is likely safe to leave them alone together during the day. Having another cat as a companion provides stimulation and entertainment for your British Shorthair, reducing the need for constant interactive play from you. This can be a significant advantage, as it allows your cats to engage with each other and fulfill their social and interactive needs without relying solely on your attention. 

While British Shorthairs make wonderful companions for cats and dogs, it is important to be cautious when it comes to smaller animals. British Shorthairs have strong hunting instincts that are deeply ingrained in their nature. Despite training efforts, they may not be able to resist their instinct to chase and potentially harm smaller creatures they perceive as prey. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent your British Shorthair from having access to birds, rabbits, or other small pets.

It is important to secure and cover fish tanks when you have a British Shorthair in your home. These curious cats may be tempted to explore or play with the fish, which can lead to accidents or harm to the fish. Avoid using fish bowls, as they are easily tipped over and provide inadequate space for fish to thrive. Instead, opt for a properly sized tank that is securely placed, ensuring it cannot be knocked off a table or surface.

10: British Shorthairs Need Grooming

While the grooming needs of a British Shorthair are relatively low compared to other breeds, it is still important to perform regular maintenance to keep your cat in good health. Although British Shorthairs are less prone to developing mats and tangles, they do have a thick coat that requires attention. They are known to shed quite a bit, and it is essential to address this to prevent excessive fur ingestion. Regular brushing sessions can help remove loose fur and reduce the risk of hairballs. 

Unlike most cats that naturally shed their fur on surfaces as they move, the British Shorthair’s laid-back nature may lead to them ingesting their loose hair instead. To prevent hairballs, it is recommended to brush or comb your British Shorthair once a week to remove loose fur. 

Many British Shorthairs tolerate and even enjoy grooming sessions, but if your cat dislikes brushing, you can try using a rubber brush or slightly damp cloth to remove excess fur. Another important aspect of grooming is dental care. Regularly brushing your British Shorthair’s teeth helps maintain their oral health.

Proper dental care is essential for all cats, and British Shorthairs may be more prone to dental issues. Brushing their teeth with a tasty meat-flavored toothpaste is recommended, and if they’re not fond of the brush, you can start by letting them lick the paste off it until they get used to it. In some cases, gently wiping their teeth with a clean, damp cloth wrapped around your finger may be necessary. 

Trimming your British Shorthair’s claws regularly is also important. While they may not scratch as much as more energetic cats, they can be prone to ingrown claws, so keeping them at a proper length is necessary.

When trimming your British Shorthair’s claws, it’s best to only remove the very tip of each claw and not attempt to do them all at once. Take your time and be gentle. While it may seem like a lot of grooming tasks, they don’t take much time and can greatly contribute to the overall well-being of your British Shorthair.