You might not know him as the British Shorthair but you would certainly remember the Cheshire cat from Alice in Wonderland. The chubby- faced British Shorthair with its happy smile and chipmunk like cheeks is often remembered as the Cheshire cat from one of the works of Lewis Carroll. The sturdy teddy bear like cat has a thick coat and a happy smile that makes him favorite as a family pet.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: United Kingdom
Used for: Companion
Average Life Span: 12-17 years
Color: All colors and patterns
Coat: Short, smooth, heavy
Average Height: Medium-large
Average Weight: 12-20 pounds
History and Domestication
Don’t be surprised when you get to know that you kind of grew up with a British Shorthair. He is the same clever cat from Puss in boots and the grinning Cheshire of Alice in Wonderland. This is a native British breed and as the breed gained popularity during Victorian era, they started o be bred as pedigreed pets. However, the world wars came as devastating shocks to the breed and only a handful remained after the Second World War. With some help from other breeds, the Shorthairs were revitalized.
Standard Physical Characteristics
These are powerfully built, medium-to-large compact cats with a broad and full chest. The strong legs are short and the short tail tapers to a rounded edge. The breed’s massiveness is emphasized by a plush coat that swirls around its muscular and round body. The head is round with prominent chubby cheeks, short noses and rounded whisker pads which give it a mysterious smile. The eyes are round and wide and along with the smile give this cat a very amusing appearance.
Care, Grooming and Health
Their coat is their special feature and fortunately it doesn’t require much grooming. Comb or brush once a week to remove dead hair. Bathe only when necessary. Keep their eyes, ears and teeth clean and look out for any signs of infection.
These cats have moderate activity level and their energy level start to decline once they are past the kitten stage. Most of them are couch potatoes and prefer sitting next to you. These are large cats and when they run around the house, it sounds like a herd of elephants. They are prone to varying degrees of genetic health problems such are gingivitis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Living Conditions
These are indoor only cats and will get along well with children and other pets. They prefer sitting pretty in the house rather go outside.
Temperament
This is an easygoing and mellow companion. He does enjoy affection but knows everything is not about him. However he will follow you around the house and sit nearby you whenever possible. He is full of the popular British reserve and is an undemanding pet. He has a quiet voice and is rarely destructive. These cats would rather sit like royalty than fool around like hooligans. They welcome guests warmly and with confidence.
