ब्रिटिश शॉर्टहेयर

The British Shorthair is one of Britain's oldest cat breeds. Its best-known colour is blue-grey ("British Blue"), but it is bred in many colours and patterns.

Character and temperament

Calm, easy-going and independent. It is attached to its people but prefers to be near them rather than constantly on a lap. It is usually unflappable about change and likes routine.

Exercise and mental needs

It isn't a very active breed, but short daily play sessions matter for mental stimulation and for maintaining an ideal weight. Its calm nature can make it prone to inactivity and weight gain; food puzzles and games help.

Coat care

It has a short, very dense coat with a plush texture. Weekly brushing is enough, with more frequent brushing during shedding periods.

Who is it suited to?

Ideal for people looking for a relaxed, independent cat in a calm home. It suits working individuals and families well.

A short history

Its ancestors are thought to be cats that arrived in Britain in Roman times; the breed was standardised in England in the 19th century alongside the first cat shows.