Origin
United States
Lifespan
12–15 years
Weight
3–7 kg
Group
Shorthair
Personality
Colors & Patterns
White · Black · Blue · Red · Cream · Silver · Golden · Tabby
Exotic Shorthair
About This Breed
The Exotic Shorthair is a breed of cat developed as a short-haired version of the Persian. It has the same characteristics as the Persian cat, including the round face and cobby body, but with a short dense coat. The Exotic Shorthair is often called the 'Lazy Man's Persian' because they are easier to groom. They share the Persian's docile and calm temperament but tend to be slightly more playful and lively.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a Exotic Shorthair
Origin
| Origin | United States |
| Group | Shorthair |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 3–7 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–15 years |
| Colors & Patterns | White · Black · Blue · Red · Cream · Silver · Golden · Tabby |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Calm · Gentle · Playful · Affectionate · Docile |
Usually fairly calm, but still needs daily play and activity.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Health and lifespan
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
Offer places to climb, hide, scratch, and rest. Try different toys to see what your cat enjoys.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
Exotic Shorthair are nearly a mirror image of their sister breed, the Persian cat. The only exception: Their short coat requires less maintenance from their caretaker—hence the breed’s nickname, “the lazy man’s Persian.” Exotic Shorthairs stand 10–12 inches at the shoulder and weigh 10–12 pounds. Their smooshy, round faces and laid-back nature make them quite charming, and they’re famously depicted by their on-screen caricature, the lasagna-loving Garfield. Caring for an Exotic Shorthair Unlike the stereotype suggested by Garfield, Exotic Shorthair cats are not known for laziness.
Care Guide
Unlike the stereotype suggested by Garfield, Exotic Shorthair cats are not known for laziness. While they enjoy nothing more than a day spent with their human companions, they’re also curious and playful. Exotic Shorthairs prefer not to be left alone and generally get along well with other pets. Despite having a short but plush coat that’s less prone to matting than their Persian counterparts, Exotic Shorthairs still benefit from (and enjoy!) weekly brushing. They may need to be brushed more frequently in the spring when shedding tends to increase.