British Longhair
Overview
The plush, longhaired cousin of the British Shorthair, the British Longhair is calm, easy-going and affectionate without being clingy — a gentle, undemanding companion. It suits a wide range of homes, including those out for part of the day, who'll commit to regular grooming of the dense coat and watch the waistline of this laid-back, food-loving cat.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a British Longhair is affectionate and good with children. They tend to be very quiet and copes with some time alone. As with any cat, give them space to retreat, teach children to handle them gently, and introduce them to a new home calmly.
Energy & play
A British Longhair is generally low energy. They are fairly laid-back and happy to relax, but still enjoy short, regular play sessions to stay fit and engaged.
Grooming & coat
Coat upkeep is high upkeep and shedding is high. A longer or denser coat needs regular brushing — often several times a week — to prevent painful mats and reduce hairballs. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a British Longhair should get most of its nutrition from a complete, balanced cat food appropriate for its life stage — this provides essential nutrients like taurine that cats can only get from animal products. Portion to your cat’s ideal body weight and activity level to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
Pros
- +Calm, easy-going and affectionate without being clingy
- +Gentle and good with families
Things to consider
- –Dense long coat needs regular grooming
- –Laid-back nature means a tendency to gain weight
Is a British Longhair right for you?
A British Longhair tends to be copes with some time alone and affectionate. They generally cope with the rhythms of a typical home, though no cat should be left alone for very long. If you want a cuddly, people-focused companion, this could be a good match.
Kit that suits a British Longhair
Everyday essentials for a happy cat:
Helpful tools
Similar breeds
Frequently asked questions
Are British Longhairs good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide they are tolerant and sociable in a family home. Always teach children to handle cats gently and give the cat space to retreat.
Are British Longhairs affectionate?
Affectionate. British Longhairs typically love close company and lap time.
Are British Longhairs vocal?
Very quiet. They are generally quiet and undemanding about it.
How much grooming does a British Longhair need?
High upkeep; shedding is high. A longer or denser coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting.
Can British Longhairs be left alone?
Copes with some time alone. They manage some time alone but appreciate company and enrichment.
Are British Longhairs energetic or playful?
Low energy. They are fairly laid-back and happy to relax, though they still enjoy short play sessions.