Worldwide; a non-pedigree cat of mixed ancestry with a long coat rather than a formal breed. Long-haired cats reached Europe from Western Asia by the 16th century.3
Personality varies from cat to cat because there is no breed type behind them. Cats raised around people are generally mild-mannered and adapt well to home life, making friendly companions, while cats with a feral start may take longer to settle.2
how to spot oneDomestic Longhair coat and colours
long coat, texture and density vary
There is no set look: body shape, size and head type depend on the cat's mixed family tree, ranging from slender and rangy to compact and fluffy. What they share is a long coat, which can reach about 15 cm on some cats and may be silky, dense or fine. Long hair comes from a recessive version of the FGF5 gene, which keeps the hair in its growing phase for longer.324
Coloursany colour or patterntabby (classic, mackerel, spotted, ticked)tortoiseshellbicoloursmokesolid colours32
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Domestic Longhair. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery 2 days
Deshedding springBrush more while sheddingevery day
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayAbout 30 minutes of play a dayevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
the hands-on bitsDomestic Longhair grooming and care
The long coat needs regular brushing to stay tidy and tangle-free; getting a cat used to gentle grooming from a young age makes this easier.2
who they like aroundDomestic Longhair with people and other pets
Well-socialised domestic cats generally take to household life and human company readily.2
where it all beganDomestic Longhair history
Domestic longhairs are simply everyday cats that happen to carry long fur. Long-haired cats were brought into Europe from Western Asia during the 16th century and were recorded in Italy by 1521. Long hair is recessive, so crossing with short-haired cats first gave short-coated kittens, but in later generations more long-coated cats appeared, and a thicker coat was an advantage in cooler European climates. The first formal longhaired breeds, the Persian and the Angora, were named after the regions these cats were linked to. Long-haired cats without a pedigree have continued alongside them as household pets, and in the US cats are thought to have arrived with early European ships, including Columbus's voyage in 1492, where they earned their keep catching pests on farms.32
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Pedigree cats are a small minority: an estimated 98-99% of cats worldwide are non-pedigree moggies like the DLH.3
2
Long fur is caused by recessive variants of the FGF5 gene. At least four different variants are known, and the most common one turns up in most or all longhaired breeds.4
3
Because long hair is recessive, two longhaired parents usually produce longhaired kittens, while a longhaired cat can hide among the ancestors of short-haired ones.4
4
Long-haired cats were documented in Italy as early as 1521.3
5
The GCCF runs show classes for non-pedigree pets, and a moggy can earn titles all the way up to Olympian Imperial Grand Master Cat.5
6
A DLH can come in every colour and pattern cats can genetically have, with fur up to about six inches long.3
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The name 'Domestic Longhair' simply refers to a domestic cat of mixed ancestry with a semi-long to long coat, distinguishing it from recognized breeds with 'Longhair' names like the British Longhair. In British English, they are also commonly called a 'moggie'.6
I stretch in a sunbeam, then pad to my food bowl. I let my human brush my long fur while I purr. I stalk a toy mouse through the living room, then bat it under the sofa. I nap in a cardboard box, then wake to watch birds from the window. I rub against my human's legs at dinner time, then curl on their lap. I chase my tail for a minute, then groom my fluffy paws. I sleep at the foot of the bed, dreaming of catnip fields.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
GCCF
Not a breed; non-pedigree cats can be shown in the Household Pet section, split into long or semi-longhaired and shorthaired classes and judged on presentation, condition, temperament and personality5
Cat fancy (general)
Not a recognised breed; some associations offer household pet classes for non-pedigree cats2
homemade and simpleTreats they will love
Domestic Longhair tip
For a Domestic Longhair, keep treats to no more than 10-15% of daily calories and choose low-calorie options, as this breed is prone to weight gain. If your cat has a sensitive stomach or dental issues, ask your vet for suitable treat recommendations.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Domestic Longhair, and at what times?
Feeding frequency and times vary by your cat's age, health, and preferences. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily feeding, but please ask your vet for a schedule tailored to your cat.
What should a Domestic Longhair eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a balanced cat food recommended by your vet. Dangerous foods include chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always check the food label and avoid these items.7
Does a Domestic Longhair need baths?
Baths are rarely needed, only if your cat is very dirty or sticky, as per the ASPCA. Regular brushing keeps the coat clean, so baths are not a routine need.8
How often does a Domestic Longhair need brushing?
Brush every two days to keep the long coat tidy and tangle-free, as Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests. During shedding seasons, brush daily to manage loose hair.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Domestic Longhair's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every three weeks, as per Pet Wiki's starting plan. Start with one or two claws per session to get your cat used to it, and ask your vet or a groomer for technique tips.8Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Domestic Longhair need?
About 30 minutes of play a day is recommended by Pet Wiki's starting plan. This keeps your cat happy and healthy, and playtime can be split into short sessions. Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Domestic Longhair's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth every two days, with daily brushing being ideal, as per Pet Wiki's starting plan. For ears, check weekly and gently clean with a vet-recommended product if needed. Ask your vet for specific care. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Domestic Longhair live?
Domestic Longhairs typically live 13 to 20 years, with good care and regular vet checkups. Senior years usually start around age 11, so adjust care as they age.12Pet Wiki plan
Is a Domestic Longhair good with children and other pets?
Yes, well-socialised Domestic Longhairs are generally mild-mannered and adapt well to home life, making friendly companions. Their temperament varies, so early socialisation helps them get along with children and other pets.2
Can a Domestic Longhair be left alone?
Yes, they can be left alone for reasonable periods, as they are independent. However, they enjoy human company, so provide toys and enrichment, and consider a pet sitter for longer absences.2
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Domestic Shorthair
Domestic Mediumhair
Persian
Turkish Angora
Maine Coon
Norwegian Forest Cat