Exotic Shorthairs stop growing around one to two years of age. Like many cat breeds, they experience most of their physical growth within the first year of life, with some additional filling out and maturing happening into their second year.

Exotic Shorthair cats live 12 to 15 years or more. With proper care and a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and encouraging activity, some Exotic Shorthairs live into their late teens or early 20s.

Exotic Shorthair cats can have a variety of eye colors, depending on their coat color and pattern. Some common eye colors seen in Exotic Shorthairs include copper, blue, blue-green, green, hazel, and odd-eyed (two different colored eyes).

Exotic Shorthairs are medium to large-sized cats with a sturdy build. They have a body structure similar to that of their parent breed, the Persian cat. Here are some typical size characteristics of Exotic Shorthairs. Male Exotic Shorthairs typically weigh between 10 and 15 pounds, and females usually range from eight to 12 pounds.

Exotic Shorthair cats come in a wide variety of coat colors and patterns, including solid colors (black, white, blue, cream, red, golden, silver, chocolate, lilac, and seal), bi-color (white with another color, such as black and white, blue and white, or red and white), tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, shaded, smoke, and colorpoint (a lighter body color and darker points on the ears, face, paws, and tail).

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are generally good with other cats. Their friendly and sociable nature often extends to other feline companions. With proper introductions, Exotic Shorthairs can form positive relationships with other cats in the household. Like all cats, individual personalities and temperaments can vary. Some Exotic Shorthairs might be more dominant or prefer solitude at times.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are good with dogs when introduced gradually and positively. Their friendly and laid-back temperament often allows them to coexist peacefully with family dogs. Successful integration between Exotic Shorthairs and dogs depends on the individual personalities of both pets. Dogs that are calm, well-socialized, and have been trained to respect cats are more likely to get along with Exotic Shorthairs. Similarly, cats that have been exposed to dogs from a young age and have a confident personality are more likely to accept and even befriend canine companions.

Exotic Shorthair cats are moderate shedders. They have short hair that requires less grooming compared to long-haired breeds like their Persian ancestors, but they still shed hair throughout the year. Seasonal changes, diet, and grooming practices can influence the amount of shedding. Regular brushing with a soft-bristled brush or grooming mitt can help remove loose hair and reduce the amount of hair shed around the home.

Yes, you need to groom an Exotic Shorthair cat to maintain their coat. Although they have short hair that requires less grooming compared to long-haired breeds, regular brushing helps remove loose hair and reduces shedding around the home, minimizing the risk of hairballs and matting. Brushing also stimulates circulation to the skin and distributes natural oils to keep the coat healthy.

A weekly brushing session with a soft-bristled brush keeps Exotic Shorthairs’ coats in good condition. Regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear cleaning are also part of a good grooming routine. Grooming sessions provide an opportunity to bond with your Exotic Shorthair and to inspect their skin for any signs of irritation, parasites, or other skin issues that might need veterinary attention.

No, Exotic Shorthair cats are not hypoallergenic. Hypoallergenic breeds produce fewer allergens compared to other cats, but no cat breed is completely hypoallergenic. Allergens in cats primarily come from proteins found in their saliva, skin oils, and dander (shed skin flakes). While Exotic Shorthairs might shed less and produce fewer allergens compared to some long-haired breeds, they still produce allergens that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are considered healthy and robust, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic or hereditary health conditions, including:

• Polycystic kidney disease (PKD): A genetic condition that can lead to kidney failure.

• Respiratory issues: Due to their brachycephalic (short-faced) structure inherited from Persian cats, Exotic Shorthairs can be prone to respiratory problems.

• Dental problems: Exotic Shorthairs might have crowded teeth, which can lead to tartar buildup, gingivitis, and periodontal disease.

• Eye conditions: Common eye issues in Exotics include entropion (eyelid rolling inward) or excessive tearing, which can be associated with their facial structure.

• Obesity: Exotic Shorthairs can be prone to obesity if their diet and exercise are not properly managed.

Exotic Shorthair cats are from the United States. They were developed in the 1950s and 1960s through selective breeding programs that aimed to create a breed that looked like a Persian cat but with a short, plush coat. Persian cats were crossed with American Shorthairs and a few other short-haired breeds to achieve this desired look. As a result, Exotic Shorthairs inherited the Persian’s distinctive flat face, large eyes, and gentle temperament but have a short, easy-to-groom coat.

No, Exotic Shorthair cats do not meow a lot and generally are not known for being excessively vocal. They have a quiet voice compared to some other breeds, and communicate with their pet parents through meows, purrs, and other vocalizations.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are friendly and affectionate. Sweet-natured, gentle, and loving, they typically enjoy being around people and form strong bonds with their people. Exotic Shorthairs are known for their calm demeanor and adaptability, making them well-suited for households with children, other pets, or individuals looking for a laid-back and affectionate cat.

No, Exotic Shorthair cats are not good hunters in general. Unlike some other breeds that retain strong instincts for hunting and stalking prey, Exotic Shorthairs tend to have a more relaxed temperament. They might exhibit curiosity toward small moving objects or insects, but their hunting instincts are not pronounced.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are good indoor cats. Their calm and laid-back temperament, combined with a short coat that requires minimal grooming, makes them well-suited for indoor living. Exotic Shorthairs are content to lounge indoors in comfortable spots, enjoying the security and warmth of their home environment.

To keep Exotic Shorthairs happy indoors, provide them with opportunities for mental and physical stimulation. This can include interactive play sessions, climbing structures, scratching posts, and puzzle toys to keep them engaged and entertained.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are good lap-cats. They are affectionate and gentle, often seeking out cuddles and attention. Most Exotic Shorthair cats enjoy sitting on laps and being petted.

No, Exotic Shorthair cats are not active compared to some other breeds and tend to be more laid-back and relaxed. They might enjoy short bursts of play and interaction, but they usually prefer lounging and observing their surroundings from a comfortable spot rather than engaging in extensive physical activity.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats scratch furniture if you don’t provide them with other suitable surfaces to scratch, such as scratching posts and pads. Like most cats, they have a natural instinct to scratch, which helps them maintain their claws, stretch their muscles, and mark their territory. By providing appropriate outlets for scratching and using positive reinforcement, you can help redirect your Exotic Shorthair’s natural scratching behavior away from furniture. 

Offer sturdy and stable scratching posts covered in materials like sisal rope or cardboard. Place them in areas where your cat likes to scratch, such as near their favorite resting spots. You can also offer horizontal or angled scratching pads or mats, which are helpful for cats that tend to scratch the carpet.

No, Exotic Shorthair cats are not particularly independent. They are affectionate and enjoy being petted, cuddled, and included in daily activities with their pet parents, but they also have moments where they appreciate having their own space and privacy. They may seek out quiet spots in the home where they can relax undisturbed, especially when they feel the need to retreat and unwind.

Yes, Exotic Shorthair cats are cuddly and affectionate. They enjoy being close to their pet parents and will seek out opportunities for cuddling, petting, and physical affection. Their gentle and laid-back nature makes them great lap-cats, as they often enjoy lounging beside or on their people.