The British Shorthair is one of the most popular and beloved breeds. Its appearance is absolutely unique and charming: thick plush fur and round amber eyes.
Fluffy cats, as a rule, have a gray, lilac or bluish color. Although the “British” have much more colors.
In general, the “British” gives the impression of being serious and ironic at the same time. She has an expressive face, as if the animal is constantly thinking or pondering something.
The character of British cats is ambiguous. This breed combines several types of characters at once – it can be choleric, melancholic five minutes later, sanguine in an hour, and by the evening frown and become phlegmatic.
Character traits of a British cat
Playfulness and calmness in one bottle
Experts do not advise taking the British to a house where small children live. She will not really approve of children invading her personal space. In principle, the cat can play and run, but only for a very short time. When she gets tired of playing, it is better to leave her alone, otherwise she may get a slap.
Sociability
The British cat will easily find a common language not only with its owners, but also with other animals living in the apartment. It is not a bully and has a fairly docile character. In any case, it will definitely not try to sort out relations with old residents.
The British do not have a reputation for being bullies, they are not aggressive. But at the same time, they will not tolerate if someone (human or other animal) clings to the cat when it is resting.
Interest in people and sociability
Such a cat will be happy to visit guests, but at first it will do so secretly: it will sneak into the living room unnoticed under the table and carefully sniff the visitors.
However, it's hard to call her “talkative”: a “British” is literally reserved and well-mannered in the English sense. Of course, she will raise her voice, for example, if she gets hungry or wants to drink, but she won't just walk around the house and shout.
Love of freedom and arbitrariness
These are independent cats. They go where they want and do what they want. They don't like closed doors and other restrictions. When a cat needs caress, it will come to you and start petting and purring on its own.
But not all British cats allow themselves to be petted whenever their owner wants. They decide for themselves whether they need affection at that moment or not.
A British cat is unlikely to jump onto your lap on its own. And even more so, it won't let you if you decide to pull it onto your lap yourself. It will run away!
Care: aristocratic rituals
Caring for a British cat is easy, but its aristocratic status requires regularity.
- Coat. The famous “plush coat” needs attention. Brush it 1-2 times a week with a special brush to avoid tangles and help your cat get rid of dead hair. You will need to do this more often during seasonal shedding.
- Claws. To protect your furniture and your own hands, trim the tips of your claws regularly (every 2-4 weeks). Be sure to offer your cat a quality scratching post — it will help it satisfy its natural instincts.
- Teeth. Like all purebred cats, British Shorthairs are prone to dental problems. Check their mouths regularly, use special dental treats, or, if your cat will allow it, brush their teeth with veterinary toothpaste.
Food: a menu for a true lord
The British are real gourmets, but with a tendency to be overweight. Their strong physique and leisurely lifestyle require careful control of their diet. Choose high-quality premium or super-premium food (dry or wet) with a high protein content. It is important to strictly adhere to the feeding rate indicated on the package and not overfeed the animal, no matter how pitifully it looks with its huge eyes. And, of course, always provide access to fresh clean water.
Health and typical breed problems
Although the British are generally healthy, they are prone to certain genetic diseases. The most common of these are:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a heart disease. Responsible breeders test their animals to minimize the risk.
- Polycystic kidney disease (PCK) is another hereditary disease that can be detected through tests.
- Obesity. Due to their calm temperament and love of food, British Shorthairs easily gain weight, which can lead to diabetes and joint problems.
Regular visits to the vet will help keep your pet's health under control.
Space and activity: the couch athlete
The British cat does not need huge apartments to be happy, it feels great in an ordinary apartment. This is not the breed that will spend hours running around the rooms, knocking over everything in its path. Its activity is short play sessions of 10-15 minutes with its favorite “fishing rod” or ball. At other times, its favorite activities are watching the world from the windowsill, dozing in a cozy chair or majestically walking around its possessions.
Average life expectancy
With proper care, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian, British cats live a long time — an average of 12-17 years, and often live up to 20.
For whom is this breed an ideal choice?
The British Shorthair is a companion for people who value peace, independence, and don't need constant cuddles from their pet. It will be an ideal friend for:
- Busy people and single people who spend a lot of time at work. The cat will entertain itself perfectly and will not suffer from loneliness.
- Calm couples or families with adult children who understand and respect the animal's need for personal space.
- Those who are looking for a balanced, unobtrusive animal with a sense of self-esteem.
It is not suitable for those who dream of a “living toy” or a cat that will constantly sit on your lap and demand affection.
A British cat is a cute plush creature that will purr at your feet without violating the boundaries of your personal space, and will fill your home with an atmosphere of noble peace.
