Currently, there is a waiting time due to high demand. Please see our Delivery page for more information.

British Shorthair - Self Cats

British shorthair cat sitting against a white background A beautiful british shorthair with dark orange eyes A plush coated british shorthair with amber eyes British shorthair cat lying on a kitchen floor

Breed Rating (4 Reviews)

Appearance
Friendliness
Hardiness
Garden

History


The British Shorthair sits at the very beginning of the long tale of the domestic puss. The original specimens are thought to have been brought to Britain by the Romans in the 1st century AD. Other breeds have been included in the Shorthair mix over the centuries, notably crosses with Persians which created the British Longhair breed during World World One.

Originally, the British Shorthair and Russian Blue were judged to be the same breed of 'blue cats'. The two have since been recognized as separate breeds in their own right.

The British Shorthair breed suffered neglect in World War Two, and many breeding lines were lost. To bolster the numbers post-war, British Shorthairs were crossed with Russian Blues, Persians and some other breeds, and most of today's specimens are descended from those crosses.

This modern form of the British Shorthair gained championship status from The International Cat Association in 1979. It is now one of the most popular breeds of cat in the United Kingdom, although less common elsewhere.

Behaviour


The British Shorthair is both friendly and docile - a combination that makes it a great family house cat. They love spending as much time as possible with their owners, and like nothing better than a warm lap. They welcome everyone home with purrs, fuss and a lots of rubbing against your ankles. They tolerate other animals, and are very patient even with small children. One thing they dislike is being left alone all day.

Varieties


Comes in many different colors, including grey, blue, lilac, brown, chocolate, black, etc.

Breed Details


  • Status: Common
  • Place of Origin: UK
  • Rough date of Origin: 1800s
  • Hair length: Shorthair
  • Activity Level: Medium
  • Vocalness: Low
  • Child friendly: Good with children
  • Intelligence:
  • Playfullness: Relaxed
  • Grooming Requirements: Less than once per week
  • Weight: 4.0 - 8.0kg
  • Size: Large
  • House Cat or Outdoor Cat: Outdoor Cat
  • Pet Compatibility:
  • Social Needs:

British Shorthair - Self Pictures

Nala and ziva
Maya 💕
British short hair
Cat laying down in grass
An orange british shorthair cat stood on the bonnet of a car

Latest Reviews For British Shorthair - Self (4 of 4)


4 Stars:

0

3 Stars:

0

2 Stars:

0

1 Star:

0

- Waseem,

Best feline friends ever. Teddy bear look alike.


- Catherine,

I have a black tipped British shorthair. He is 13 years old, not a lap cat but tolerate to be carried for a few minutes. He is very attached to me and wants constantly to be with me, follows me around the house. He is very talkative and always answers when I talk or call him. He has a very friendly and curious nature. Has a calm demeanor, nothing faze him. Gets along with my other pets and stand his ground when challenged by the other cats He is willing to try all type of food but is a small eater, prefering to eat small amount, multiple times a day. He is my pride and joy has the most beautiful eyelinered green eyes, lips. The cutest paws, ears and face like a cuddly toy. Although is he is a senior cat, he still looks like the most adorable kitten and very playful.


Carlotta had 2 feverish births sorry I give up my words are changing - Ellen,

I got Carlotta an indoor silver tabby because of loneliness after my husband died 2014 she was 2yrs gorgeous beautiful large eyes I was told by breeder she didn't shed hair I had to replace carpets for flooring she still won't sit on my lap but will lye on me in bed she wants my company but only on her terms she's very fussy .eater .Very intelligent I feel she knows every word I say she likes me talking to her I'm 81yrs on my own Those eyes captivate me I have to say she's been a lot of work very timid still hides when family visit I would miss her She's always been very clean.I love her.


A Big Softy - Sally,

I love British Shorthair Cats, some find them aloof but my experience is completely the opposite. Monty is very vocal and 'talkative' he loves cuddles and likes nothing more than to be stroked and fussed. I find them to be good eaters, not fussy, they are playful and intelligent. I would recommend them for families, subject to all the normal checks one would do with animals and young children.