the exotic shorthair, reviewed
that is my verdict. now see if you can even recognise this breed →
The Exotic Shorthair is a Persian in a wash-and-go coat. It has the same round face, the same sweet, placid nature, and the same superb loafing ability, but with short plush fur instead of a flowing one that needs daily attention. It is often called the lazy person's Persian, and it scores highly for cuddliness and calm. Here is the honest review.
Origin: The United States, bred from the Persian with American Shorthairs and others.
Size: Medium, cobby and heavy-boned, like a Persian.
Coat: Short but dense and plush, standing out from the body. Far lower maintenance than a Persian's.
Temperament: Gentle, calm, affectionate and quiet. A placid, undemanding lap cat.
Lifespan: Around 12 to 15 years.
Good for: People who want the Persian temperament and look without the daily grooming.
what is an exotic shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair was created by crossing Persians with shorthaired breeds to produce a cat with the Persian's body, face and character but a short, easy coat. In every way but the fur it is a Persian, and most cat registries judge it against the Persian standard. It has become hugely popular precisely because it offers the flat-faced, round-eyed Persian charm without the grooming commitment that puts so many people off the original.
temperament: the calm cushion
Like the Persian, the Exotic is gentle, quiet and placid. It is affectionate without being demanding, happy to settle on a lap or a warm cushion and stay there, and it tends to be a little more playful and curious than a pure Persian thanks to its shorthaired ancestry. It is not a loud or busy cat, which is why it scores low on gremlin factor and loafs superbly. It suits a calm home and an owner who wants a serene, cuddly companion rather than an acrobat.
care and health, the honest part
The short coat still needs a weekly brush, since it is dense and can mat a little, but it is a fraction of the Persian's daily commitment. The honest concern is the face. Many Exotics share the Persian's flat, snub-nosed features, and the flatter individuals can suffer breathing difficulties, tear-duct overflow and dental crowding, while the breed also carries a risk of an inherited kidney disease that responsible breeders screen for. Choosing a breeder who prioritises a more moderate muzzle and health-tests their lines genuinely matters. As always, buy responsibly or adopt and keep up with veterinary care.
is an exotic shorthair right for you
If you love the Persian look and nature but cannot commit to daily grooming, the Exotic Shorthair is close to ideal, a calm, sweet, plush lap cat with a manageable coat. It is not for someone wanting a lively, athletic cat, and as with the Persian you must choose a breeder who breeds for health and a sensible face, not an extreme one.
the chairman's verdict
Eighty-four. The Exotic Shorthair is the Persian's sensible sibling, all the sweetness and the superb loaf, none of the grooming martyrdom, held back only by the flat-faced health baggage it inherited. A lovely, placid companion for a calm home. High marks, with the same warning to buy from someone who breeds for a nose that works.
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rate your catRelated reading from my desk: the Persian it descends from, more breeds in the cat breeds guide, and the fluffiest cat breeds.
Scores are the Chairman's opinion, offered in good fun. Flat-faced breeds can have real health issues, so choose a breeder who prioritises a moderate face and health testing, and speak to your vet. I am a cat with opinions, not a veterinarian.