Exotic Shorthair cat temperament & health

Exotic Shorthair cat insurance

Is the Exotic Shorthair the right cat breed for you?

Exotic Shorthair owner’s guide

Charming, quiet and with the looks of a cute teddy bear, the Exotic Shorthair is a low-maintenance, affectionate companion. Learn more about their temperament, origins and how to care for them.

Exotic Shorthair quick facts

Size: Medium build
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Weight: 3.5–6kg
Colour: All coat colours and patterns
Characteristics: Calm, loving, quiet
Common diseases and health problems: Brachycephalic airway syndrome, dental issues, polycystic kidney disease (PKD), eye discharge
Country of origin: United States

Orange Exotic Shorthair cat with big brown eyes.

Where does the Exotic Shorthair come from?

Exotic Shorthairs were originally bred in the 1960s as a shorthaired version of the Persian, created by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs and other shorthaired breeds. The goal was to maintain the Persian’s gentle nature and appearance, but with a low-maintenance coat. The result is a plush, teddy-bear-faced feline with an affectionate and peaceful personality.

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What is an Exotic Shorthair’s temperament?

Calm & loving

They form strong bonds with their humans but are typically more laid-back than many other breeds.

Quietly affectionate

Often described as quietly affectionate, they may follow you from room to room without demanding attention, being just happy to be near you.

Social

They can get along nicely with other pets if introduced early enough, potentially making them a good choice for peaceful, multi-animal households.

Exotic Shorthairs are known for their calm and loving nature. Unlike their Persian cousins, they tend to be a little more playful and inquisitive, although they still prefer a cosy nap over a wild chase.

Exotic Shorthairs enjoy company and aren’t fond of being left on their own for long periods and their soft, chirping meows are so subtle you may not even hear them.

Exotic Shorthair training and exercise

While Exotic Shorthairs tend to be calm, loving cats, they still appreciate some exercise and mental challenge, especially when young. Here are some quick tips for keeping your Exotic Shorthair stimulated and happy:

1
Use interactive toys
While not as high-energy as some breeds, Exotic Shorthairs still enjoy engaging toys that mimic hunting behaviours, such as feather teasers.
2
Keep sessions short
A few minutes of play a couple of times a day will usually suffice for this gentle breed.
3
Provide climbing and resting spots
Like most cats, they appreciate a perch with a view, ideally near a window so they can look out, and cosy spots to retreat to.
4
Litter training is easy
Exotic Shorthairs are an intelligent breed and usually learn quickly, especially when they’re given a quiet and consistent environment.

Exotic Shorthair appearance and size

If you like the sweet, squishy face of a Persian cat but aren’t up for all the grooming, the exotic shorthair could be a great alternative. These lovable cats have a soft, short coat that’s much easier to care for than the longer coat of a Persian. And with their big round eyes, flat little nose, and teddy bear appearance, their cute looks make them a popular choice. Add in their stocky build, broad chest, and low-to-the-ground waddle, and you’ve got a huggable, low-maintenance friend.

Note: The cartoon cat Garfield is often associated with the Exotic Shorthair due to his similar appearance, although some sources say he’s an orange tabby Persian, so who knows!?

Ginger and white Exotic Shorthair cat laying down on its back.

Exotic shorthair health

Exotic Shorthairs are generally sturdy little companions, but like many flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds, they do come with a few health quirks to be aware of.

Buying an Exotic Shorthair kitten

Exotic Shorthairs tend to be calm and well-adjusted, but it's still important to give kittens a safe, quiet space to settle in. They usually reach maturity around 2–3 years of age.

Make sure you obtain your kitten from a registered breeder who screens for genetic conditions, especially PKD. Ask what they’re currently eating, and maintain the same food for at least the first few days after bringing them home.

Your kitten should be:

Vet-inspected
Vaccinated (including boosters)
Wormed
Microchipped

For more guidance, see our kitten care guide.

Exotic Shorthair FAQs

Exotic 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 Exotic 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 quote

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.