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The big eyes and the friendly and easy-going nature make the British Shorthair one of the most popular cat breeds of all. Here you can find out everything you always wanted to know about the plush cats.
History and Origin of the British Shorthair
The British Shorthair cat is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world. The Romans brought their cats with them to the British Isles, where they spread and adapted to the harsh climate. In 1871, the first breeders exhibited their cats at London’s Crystal Palace under the name British Shorthair. Since the breeding stock was unfortunately only very small after the world wars, the breeders crossed in Persian cats and unregistered domestic cats.
This not only increased the diversity of the breed but also strengthened its friendly nature. Due to the crossing with the long-haired Persians, there are still some long-haired kittens today. Breeders used to give away the longhaired cats, but now they sell them under the name British Longhair (BLH). The British Shorthair (BKH) comes in over 300 recognized color varieties, with the most popular being the silver tabby and blue coat coloring. Connoisseurs also refer to this special punch as British Blue.
Essence and Character
The British Shorthair, or BKH for short, is generally an easy-going and easy-going cat breed. The calm cats get along with everyone and are not particularly demanding. This makes them the perfect beginner cats. They are very adaptable and are very happy in both families and single households. She gets along well with children as long as they treat her with respect. The plush cats form a strong bond with their two-legged friend and need lots of stroking.
As a rule, however, they do not particularly like being picked up or carried around. Especially towards strangers, the cats are reserved at first and need some time to warm up to them. It is relatively difficult to elicit a meow from the fur noses, as they tend to be among the quiet cat breeds. When young, kittens are playful and curious, but not nervous or frantic. In old age, the velvet paws prefer to spend their time lying in the sun or in a basket.
The Appearance of the British Shorthair
Depending on the breeder, the external appearance of the British Shorthair can vary greatly. Generally speaking, the BKH is a medium-sized, plump cat with short and stocky legs. She doesn’t look clumsy, but powerful and muscular. The small, rounded ears are set wide apart and the eyes are particularly large and round. This gives this breed its typical, cute facial expression. Their short and thick tail, which is rounded at the tip, is also characteristic. The cats are fully grown at around two years of age, with tomcats then weighing six to eight kilograms and cats around four to six kilograms.
The British Shorthair has a plush, dense coat that comes in over 300 recognized color variations. The colors are divided into the categories of full colors, bicolor, and point. Solid colors include the popular blue, but also chocolate, lilac, or cream, as well as black and white. Typical eye color is copper or bright orange, although some cats also have green or blue eyes.
attitude and care
Acquisition cost
Depending on where you get a British Shorthair cat, you pay a different price. You can calculate between €450 and €900 for a healthy kitten from a reputable breeder. The price depends on whether you want a hobby cat or a breeding cat. Anyone who buys a hobby cat usually undertakes in the purchase contract not to use the cat for breeding. There are also older BKHs or mixed breeds in the shelter who are looking forward to a new home.
Outdoor cat or indoor cat?
With its easy-going and affectionate nature, the British Shorthair is a perfect indoor cat. Thanks to their quiet character, they are also happy in the apartment and enjoy their forays here. A large scratching post, as well as numerous sleeping and playing facilities, would be ideal for pure apartment keeping. However, if you have the opportunity to offer the cat space to run around, you should not do without it. A fenced garden or balcony is also suitable for this on busy roads. Of course, you can also keep the BKH as a freelancer. Rest assured that most members of the breed will happily stay indoors or around the house voluntarily.
How Much Activity Does the British Shorthair Need?
Even if the BKH is rather easygoing in character, she appreciates a good job. As one of the smartest cats, she needs playful encouragement to feel comfortable. Even if it sometimes takes a while for the cat to warm up to a new toy, at some point it can hardly be stopped in its play instinct. You should then use this, otherwise, the beautiful house cat will quickly become overweight. The BKHs particularly like to deal with conspecifics. On the other hand, the gentle house cats need their personal retreat and extensive rest periods.