The British Shorthair is one of the oldest known cat breeds. Once called the “British Blue”, due to the majority of them having a blue/gray coat colour, they now come in a large variety of solid colours, tabbies, bicolour, shaded and colour point. Their large round eyes are usually gold or amber/copper in the solid colour cats while some of the other patterned Brits can have green or blue eyes.

They have also been referred to as the “Cheshire cat” due to their chubby cheeks, rounded muzzle and large round face causing them to look like they are constantly smiling. They are beloved for their thick, dense coats which gives them an amazing teddy bear feel. They are a medium to large cat with a stocky/muscular body and a thick, rounded tail.

Besides being treasured for their easygoing nature, they are also active and playful. They are affectionate but not clingy. Their warm and lovable personality combined with their independent nature make them a wonderful family pet. They generally get along well with other cats, dogs, and children (especially when well socialized as a kitten). They can be somewhat reserved with strangers, but once they get to know someone, they have no trouble showing them affection.

Male and female Brits can differ a bit in personality. The males command respect but welcome attention from everyone, while the more serious females are true British ladies expecting proper manners and etiquette from those whom they accept. These loyal and devoted cats are also very intelligent, as I learned when my very first Brit girl showed me she could open doors by herself.

For the most part, Brits do a good job keeping themselves clean and tidy, but
their dense coat definitely benefits from a good weekly brushing or combing to remove dead hair and skin and to distribute oils through their beautiful coat to keep them shiny and soft.

Like other breeds, British shorthairs need regular nail trims, as well as annual trips to the veterinarian (for checkups and vaccinations) or anytime there are any issues such as pain, not eating or drinking, vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea, straining to urinate or urinating outside of litter box. It is always better to be safe than sorry as cats can deteriorate very quickly if a problem is ignored. They should always have fresh water, a good quality diet, clean litter in an appropriate size box (1 box per cat in house plus 1 extra).

British shorthairs aren’t too fussy about where they live, as long as they have loving owners who take the time to interact with them and provide them with all necessary care, both physically and emotionally. Like any cat they require stimulation through play and attention as well as lots of affection. They are as happy in a big house as they are in a small apartment.

They should never be allowed to roam free outdoors as there are too many dangers there for them. They do enjoy the sounds and smells of being outside in an enclosed and safe “catio” or a walk with mom or dad on a good leash and harness. British shorthairs are a happy combination of playfulness and just wanting to cuddle and snooze in the sun all day.