Exotic Shorthair
Essentially a short-coated Persian, bred to offer that breed's sweet, placid nature without the daily grooming, the Exotic Shorthair is calm, affectionate and undemanding. It suits owners who love the Persian look and temperament but want an easier coat — though, as a flat-faced breed, it still needs the eye and breathing care those features require.
Overview
Essentially a short-coated Persian, bred to offer that breed's sweet, placid nature without the daily grooming, the Exotic Shorthair is calm, affectionate and undemanding. It suits owners who love the Persian look and temperament but want an easier coat — though, as a flat-faced breed, it still needs the eye and breathing care those features require.
Good to know — a Exotic Shorthair is affectionate and copes with some time alone. Every cat is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
Temperament & family fit
In general, a Exotic Shorthair 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.
- Families with respectful children
- People who want a cuddly companion
- Homes with normal daily routines
Energy & play
A Exotic Shorthair 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 easy-care and shedding is moderate. The coat is generally easy to care for; an occasional brush keeps it tidy and cuts down loose hair. All cats benefit from regular nail checks and a clean, quiet place to groom themselves.
Grooming brushes for this coat →Feeding considerations
Cats are obligate carnivores, so a Exotic Shorthair 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 to avoid weight gain, and provide plenty of fresh water. Treats should make up no more than about 10% of daily calories.
Pros & cons
The good bits
- Placid, gentle and affectionate without the daily brushing of a Persian
- Quiet and undemanding — a relaxed companion for a calm home
Things to consider
- Shares the Persian’s flat (brachycephalic) face, with related breathing and eye care needs
- Low activity means it can gain weight without play and portion control
Similar breeds
Ragdoll
A large, docile, semi-longhaired cat famous for going limp when picked up — devoted, gentle and very people-oriented.
View breed guide →Maine Coon
One of the largest domestic breeds — a gentle giant that is sociable, intelligent and known for soft chirps and trills.
View breed guide →Persian
A calm, quiet, luxurious longhair that prefers a peaceful home and a comfortable spot to lounge.
View breed guide →British Shorthair
An easygoing, dignified and undemanding breed with a plush coat — affectionate on its own terms rather than a clingy lap cat.
View breed guide →Frequently asked questions
What is an Exotic Shorthair cat?
The Exotic Shorthair is essentially a short-coated version of the Persian. It was developed by crossing Persians with shorthaired breeds, keeping the Persian's round face, large eyes and cobby, sturdy body but with a dense, plush, easy-care coat. They are often nicknamed the 'lazy man's Persian'.
What is the difference between an Exotic Shorthair and a Persian?
The main difference is coat length. The Exotic Shorthair shares the Persian's flat-faced look, calm temperament and rounded body, but has a short, dense coat instead of the Persian's long flowing fur. This makes grooming far easier while keeping the cuddly Persian appearance.
Do Exotic Shorthairs need much grooming?
Far less than a Persian, but not none. Their thick, plush double coat benefits from regular brushing, ideally a few times a week, to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Because of their flat faces, gentle daily wiping of the eye area also helps keep tear staining under control.
What is the Exotic Shorthair's temperament like?
Exotics are typically gentle, calm and affectionate. They tend to be quieter and more placid than many breeds, enjoying a relaxed lap-cat lifestyle, yet they can also be playful in short bursts. They usually form close, loyal bonds with their owners without being overly demanding.
Are Exotic Shorthairs good with children and other pets?
Yes, their easy-going, tolerant nature generally makes them well suited to families, gentle children and other cats or calm dogs. They are rarely aggressive and tend to adapt well to a settled, indoor household where they can enjoy plenty of comfort and company.
Do flat-faced cats like the Exotic Shorthair have health issues?
Their flat (brachycephalic) face can predispose them to breathing difficulties, tear-duct and eye problems, and dental crowding. The breed can also be prone to inherited conditions such as polycystic kidney disease. Choosing a responsible breeder who health-tests their cats and arranging regular vet checks is important; always ask your vet for advice.
How long do Exotic Shorthairs live?
With good care, Exotic Shorthairs commonly live into their early-to-mid teens, and some considerably longer. A healthy weight, good dental and eye care, and routine veterinary attention to their breed-specific needs all help support a long, comfortable life.
Are Exotic Shorthairs 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 Exotic Shorthairs affectionate?
Affectionate. Exotic Shorthairs typically love close company and lap time.
Are Exotic Shorthairs vocal?
Very quiet. They are generally quiet and undemanding about it.
How much grooming does an Exotic Shorthair need?
Easy-care; shedding is moderate. The coat is generally easy to care for with the occasional brush.
Can Exotic Shorthairs be left alone?
Copes with some time alone. They manage some time alone but appreciate company and enrichment.
Are Exotic Shorthairs energetic or playful?
Low energy. They are fairly laid-back and happy to relax, though they still enjoy short play sessions.
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Every cat is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet cats in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet.