This popular cat breed has been around for centuries, originally known for their mousing abilities when serving as farm cats in England. Other than the obvious heritage, what else do you think you know about the British Shorthair? Take a quick look at our 5 things you didn’t know about this popular cat breed that is adored by cat lovers all around the world:
Source: Nickolas Titkov via Flickr
1. Many Color Options Available
Although many people recognize the British Shorthair for the blue (gray) coat that is vastly popular, this breed also comes in almost 30 different colors and patterns. It is true that all purebred British Shorthairs do share the trademark large round expressive eyes regardless of coat appearance. The British Shorthair also features many different eye shades, and not only the trademark copper that many people associate with the breed. Fun fact: they were first referred to as the British Blue before the name change.
Source: chicour via Flickr
2. This is Not Your Typical Lap Cat
The British Shorthair is not the sort of cat that will eagerly cozy up into your arms whenever they are around you. While they do prefer to be near their humans, they are chill cats who like to hang out with you, just not on you. These cats are also highly intelligent and like interactive toys and keeping themselves entertained. Due to their laid-back nature they do well in multi cat homes along as with cat-friendly dogs and gentle children. Fun fact: the British Shorthair is not a noisy cat, in fact, the breed is known for hardly meowing at all.
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3. Live Long and Prosper
This cat breed doesn’t just have the typical “nine lives”, it has about 20 real ones! The British Shorthair is generally a very healthy breed of cat, and many have been reported to have lifespans up to 20 years with proper care. But be careful, like the domestic shorthair, these cats have a love for eating and can become obese easily if their food intake is not properly monitored. With their chill cat attitude, the British Shorthair might not be active enough to combat all that eating and develop a weight problem easily if allowed. Because of their sturdy, muscular bodies and large round heads, these cats have often been referred to as the “bulldogs” of the cat world.
4. Most Popular Cat Breed Across the Pond
It should come as no surprise that the British Shorthair is by far the most popular cat breed in Great Britain. According to the UK’s Governing Council of the Cat Fancy, the British Shorthair has claimed the top spot since 2001, after defeating the Persian as the most loved cat in Great Britain. In the United States, the British Shorthair clocks in at the No. 5 spot. With their round faces and curious eyes it’s no wonder these cats are so well liked, they are absolutely adorable!
5. Inspiration for One of the Most Popular Story Cats To Date
With their chipmunk cheeks and almost “cat that swallowed the canary grins” it’s no wonder that the Cheshire Cat from Lewis Carrolls’ Alice in Wonderland was inspired by none other than a British Shorthair. The breed is also rumored to have inspired Puss and Boots, and many might also remember Church from Pet Cemetery as a British Shorthair, too.