Exotic Shorthair
Origin
United States
Lifespan
10-15 years
Weight
3.2-6.4 kg (7-14 lbs)
Temperament
Overview
The Exotic Shorthair was developed in the 1960s by crossing American Shorthairs with Persians to create a cat with the Persian’s adorable flat face and gentle personality but without the demanding grooming requirements. Often called the “lazy man’s Persian,” the Exotic has become one of the most popular breeds worldwide. They offer all the charm of a Persian in a more manageable package.
Appearance
Exotic Shorthairs have the same round, flat face, snub nose, and large round eyes as Persians, set on a cobby, compact body. Their coat is the key difference — short, dense, and plush with a soft, teddy bear-like texture that stands away from the body. They come in all the same colors and patterns as Persians, including solid, tabby, bicolor, and colorpoint. Their eyes can be copper, blue, green, or odd-eyed depending on coat color.
Personality
Exotics are calm, sweet, and affectionate cats that love to be near their people. They are more playful and curious than Persians, showing occasional bursts of kitten-like energy. They are quiet cats with soft voices and are content to sit in your lap for hours. They do not handle being left alone well and prefer a household where someone is usually home. They get along beautifully with children and other pets.
Health Considerations
Like Persians, Exotics can suffer from brachycephalic-related issues including breathing difficulties, tear duct overflow (resulting in tear staining), and dental crowding due to their flat faces. Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) is a hereditary concern that responsible breeders screen for. Regular eye cleaning and veterinary checkups are essential.
Care and Grooming
While much easier than Persian grooming, Exotics still need more care than typical short-haired breeds. Brush twice a week to manage their dense undercoat. Clean their eyes daily to prevent tear staining. Their flat faces mean they can be messy eaters, so wipe their face after meals.
Diet and Nutrition
Feed high-quality food, preferably with flat-face-friendly bowl shapes. Exotics are prone to obesity due to their calm nature, so monitor portions carefully. Use our Cat Calorie Calculator for daily feeding guidelines and the Cat Weight Chart to track their weight.
Fun Facts
- Garfield, the famous cartoon cat, is widely believed to be an Exotic Shorthair (or at least inspired by one).
- Exotics were initially controversial because Persian breeders felt the crossbreeding diluted their breed’s purity.
- They are sometimes called “Persians in pajamas” because of their plush, teddy bear-like coat.
Sources
Helpful Tools for Exotic Shorthair Owners
Frequently Asked Questions
Exotic Shorthair cats typically live 10-15 years. Lifespan depends on genetics, diet, indoor/outdoor lifestyle, and veterinary care. Indoor Exotic Shorthair cats with regular vet checkups tend to live at the upper end of this range.
A healthy adult Exotic Shorthair typically weighs 3.2-6.4 kg (7-14 lbs). Males are usually larger than females. Use our Cat Weight Chart to check if your Exotic Shorthair is at a healthy weight for their age.
Exotic Shorthair cats are known for being calm, affectionate, playful, quiet. Their temperament can work well in families, but proper introductions and supervision with young children are recommended.
Shedding varies among individual Exotic Shorthair cats, but you can expect moderate shedding year-round with heavier shedding during spring and fall. Regular brushing (2-3 times per week for short-haired, daily for long-haired) helps manage loose fur and reduces hairballs.
Exotic Shorthair cats are typically described as calm, affectionate, playful, quiet. The Exotic Shorthair is essentially a short-haired Persian — same flat face and sweet personality, but with a plush, easy-care teddy bear coat.
The price of a Exotic Shorthair cat varies widely. Adoption from a shelter typically costs $50-200. From a reputable breeder, expect $800-2,500 depending on pedigree, location, and breeder reputation. Always choose breeders who health-test their cats and provide documentation.
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