British Shorthair pet insurance
Is the British Shorthair the right cat breed for you?
Our guide to living with a British Shorthair
The ‘teddy bear’ cat is a very chill customer. Calm, gentle and easygoing, the British Shorthair can fit into any family. Learn more about their temperament and origins.
British Shorthair quick facts
- Size: Height 30-46cm, body length 56-64cm
- Average lifespan: 12-20 years
- Weight: 4-9 kg (adult male 6-9 kg, adult female 4-6 kg)
- Colours: Grey/blue, but can also be a range including lilac, black, white & cream
- Characteristics: Calm, affectionate, independent
- Common diseases and health problems: Heart disease (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy), polycystic kidney disease & eye issues
- Country of origin: Britain, possibly brought over from Rome or Egypt
Where does the British Shorthair come from?
The British Shorthair (AKA British blue) is one of the oldest cat breeds. While it originates from Britain (the clue’s in the name), their ancestors come from further afield. There are a couple of competing theories, but the most popular is that they’re believed to have descended from cats brought to Britain by Roman legionaries over 2,000 years ago. These cats bred with local wildcats, gradually developing into strong, hardy animals well-suited to the British climate.
Looking for cat insurance for your British Shorthair?
Protect your British Shorthair with peace of mind from Agria.
What is a British Shorthair’s temperament?
The British Shorthair is calm, easy going and affectionate. They tend to be dignified and reserved, often choosing to sit nearby rather than climb onto laps, though many will happily accept fuss on their own terms.
Even-tempered
British Shorthairs are generally good with children and other pets; they’re patient, tolerant and seldom aggressive.
Independent
Their independent streak means they can cope well with time alone, while still forming strong bonds with their humans.
Friendly & loyal
Loving without being needy means they're suited to owners who appreciate companionship without constant interaction.
A paradox of the ‘teddy bear’ breed is that, while there may be a temptation to pick them up and cuddle them, some don’t like this. As a chunky breed, some individuals might object to being picked up.
Adult British Shorthairs aren’t overly playful or energetic, but are up for more play while they’re young.
British Shorthair training and exercise
British Shorthairs are chunky by nature, but they can be prone to becoming overweight. As such, here’s how to keep them active, and a little light training:
- 1
Play nice and gently
British Shorthairs aren’t especially energetic, although daily play sessions can be beneficial. Use toys like feather wands, balls or the laser chaser to keep them active and stimulated.
- 2
Positive reinforcement
Like many pets, they respond best to calm, reward-based training with treats or praise. Simple commands or routines like coming when called or using a scratching post can be taught with consistency.
- 3
Avoid overexertion
Their stocky build means they’re not built for punishing exercise. Keep it chill.
- 4
Provide mental stimulation
British Shorthairs are naturally curious but not super adventurous. To keep their minds engaged, you can get things like puzzle feeders, toy balls with bells and scratching towers. And – like so many cats – they love a cardboard box.
Find out more about how to train your cat or read more blogs by the expert, Anna Jönsson Bergstedt.
British Shorthair appearance and size
The British Shorthair’s teddy-bear appearance is very distinctive. They have a broad, round face with full cheeks, large round eyes (often copper or gold in colour), and a short, straight nose. Its body is sturdy and muscular with a thick neck, deep chest and strong legs, making it look compact and powerful.
British Shorthair fur
One of their most notable features is their plush, dense coat. The British Shorthair is double coated, with a thick undercoat and a dense, short topcoat. They’re very soft and luxurious to the touch. Petting a British Shorthair is a true joy.
British Shorthair colours
The classic colour is the ‘British blue’ look – grey fur with a blueish sheen. Although British Shorthairs actually come in a whole range of hues. Some of the most common colourings include cream, chocolate, black, white, lilac, red (i.e. ginger), cinnamon, fawn (a sort of mushroom colour with a rosy hue), tortoiseshell (AKA tortie) and tabby.
Getting a British Shorthair kitten
British Shorthairs are a slow-maturing breed, and can take up to five years to reach their full size and weight. This means you have quite a while of kittenhood and teenagerhood to enjoy.
When you pick up your British Shorthair kitten, ask the breeder what food to give them when you first get them home.
Be aware that all kittens should be vet-inspected, vaccinated against feline distemper and cat distemper, and dewormed when you collect them. You should also ask when their next vaccination and deworming treatment is due.
Learn more about caring for your kitten, including how to settle them into their new home.
British Shorthair cat insurance with Agria
With Agria, it's lifetime, every time
At Agria, we believe pet insurance should last your pet’s lifetime. Our policies provide lifelong vet fees cover for illnesses and injuries. This means that, provided your policy is renewed each year, your maximum benefit will be refreshed, providing cover for ongoing conditions.
So, whatever happens throughout your British Shorthair's life, we’ll always be there for you and your cat!
Agria Pet Insurance has been awarded 'best pet insurance overall' from The Telegraph.
Up to £20,000 towards vet bills every year
So your cat can get the care they need.
We pay 98% of claims*
And we can pay your vet directly, so you can focus on your cat.
No increase in your premiums when you claim
So you don’t have to worry about the cost of insurance when you go to the vet.
Free vet video calls, 24/7
Which means help is always on hand if you’re worried.
Get a 5% multi-pet discount when you insure more than one pet with us.
*Based on all Agria Pet Insurance claims received between November 2023 and May 2024.
Want to know about our insurance policies? From multi-pet coverage to pre-existing conditions, we have lifetime insurance options for cats, rabbits, horses, and dogs, including older dogs.
British Shorthair FAQs
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