Pet Wiki

Persian vibes, low-effort hair.

Exotic Shorthair

Also called Exotic, Lazy man's Persian

Calm, sweet and devoted without being demanding.

SizeLarge
Weight3 to 6 kg (7 to 13 lb)males 4.5 to 6 kg, females 3 to 5.4 kg1234
Height25 to 30 cm (10 to 12 in)2
Lifespan8 to 15 years123
CoatShort, dense and plush
OriginUnited States, from crosses between Persians and American Shorthairs from the 1950s onwards.564
Recognised breedDeep profile
Gentle, quiet and loyal companion
Persian looks with much easier coat care
Adapts well to family life with children and other pets
642

Personality what they are like

Calm, sweet and devoted without being demanding. Exotics like to trail their people from room to room and ask for attention with a look rather than a meow. Mostly laid-back, but a bit livelier than the Persian and prone to sudden bursts of playful zooming. Usually good with children and other animals, though they may be shy with newcomers at first.64312

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, dense and plush

A heavy-boned, compact cat built like a Persian, with short sturdy legs, big round paws and a short tail. The head is round and broad with full cheeks, a short snub nose, large round eyes set wide apart and small, low-set ears. The coat is short but very thick, with a soft, dense undercoat that makes it stand away from the body and gives the breed its teddy-bear look.615

Colourswhiteblackblueredcreamchocolatelilacsilver and goldenshaded and smoketabbytortoiseshell and blue-creamcalico and bicolourcolourpoint (Himalayan pattern)64

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for an Exotic Shorthair. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Nail trimevery 3 weeks
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • Litter scoopevery day
  • Litter changeevery week
  • PlayAbout 20 minutes of play a dayevery day
  • Eye wipeGently wipe around the eyesevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Low to moderate. They enjoy short play sessions on the ground, such as batting toys, chasing catnip mice or using food-dispensing toys, rather than high climbing and leaping. Regular gentle play helps keep them fit.123

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Far easier than a Persian, but the dense undercoat still needs regular combing with a metal comb, weekly at minimum and more often during seasonal shedding (some guides advise daily). A bath can help lift loose undercoat in moulting season. Wipe around the eyes and face daily and check the ears regularly.6213

Home where they are happiest

Well suited to indoor life in a calm home, ideally with safe access to a secure garden or enclosed catio.1

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A complete, animal-protein-based cat food. Kittens eat three to four meals a day; adults do well on several small portions. Because the breed is fairly inactive, portions should be measured to keep a healthy weight.23

Company who they like around

A people-focused cat that prefers company and does best in homes where someone spends plenty of time with it, though it can cope with ordinary working hours.216

The story where it all began

In the 1950s some American Shorthair breeders quietly crossed their cats with Persians to improve body type and bring in silver colouring and green eyes, with Russian Blue and Burmese also used at times. The kittens had short coats but Persian-like bodies and faces, which caused friction in the show hall. In 1966 CFA judge and American Shorthair breeder Jane Martinke proposed treating these cats as a new breed. It was named Exotic Shorthair, partly because many were shaded silver or chinchilla, colours then unknown in shorthair breeds. CFA granted championship status in 1967, TICA followed in 1979 and FIFe in 1986. In 1987 CFA closed the breed to shorthair outcrosses, leaving the Persian as the only allowed outcross, so the Exotic today is essentially a short-coated Persian. In Britain the breed was also developed from Persian and British Shorthair crosses.5641

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    It is often nicknamed the lazy man's Persian because it has the Persian look without the long coat to maintain.4

  2. 2

    The name Exotic came about partly because many early cats were shaded silver or chinchilla, colours not then seen in shorthair breeds.6

  3. 3

    An Exotic was CFA Cat of the Year in 1991, and another was CFA Best Kitten in 1992.5

  4. 4

    CFA now registers slightly more Exotics each year than Persians.6

  5. 5

    The cartoon cat Garfield is often said to be inspired by the Exotic Shorthair.2

  6. 6

    Exotics tend to talk with their big round eyes rather than their voice and are rarely noisy.6

  7. 7

    In CFA shows the Exotic competes in the same seven colour divisions as the Persian.6

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed was originally proposed to be called 'Sterling' for its silver color, but the name was changed to Exotic Shorthair to reflect its short, plush coat and exotic look, with all colors accepted.7

Name ideas for your new friend

ButtercupCuddlesFluffyGizmoMuffinOliverPeanutPuddingSnugglesSugarTeddyWhiskers

A day in the life told by an Exotic Shorthair

I wake up slowly, blinking in the morning light. My human gives me a gentle head scratch, and I purr like a tiny motor. I follow them from room to room, sitting quietly and watching their every move. A toy mouse rolls by, and I chase it with a sudden burst of energy, then flop over for a belly rub. After a snack, I find my favorite sunbeam and nap for hours. In the afternoon, I bat a catnip mouse around for a few minutes before settling on the sofa. When my human comes home, I give them a loving look, and they scoop me up for cuddles. Life is simple and sweet.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

CFA
Breed established in 1966 and granted championship status in 19675
TICA
Championship status since June 1979; part of the Persian Breed Group with the Persian and Himalayan4
FIFe
Fully recognised, Category 1, breed code EXO (recognised 1986 per Wikipedia); standard last revised 20248
GCCF
Has a GCCF breed standard5

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Exotic Shorthair tip

Because Exotic Shorthairs can gain weight easily and have flat-faced breathing challenges, choose low-calorie, single-protein treats and keep portions tiny. Always check with your vet before introducing new treats, especially if your cat has dental pain or kidney concerns.

Source: petmd.com

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
  • 1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

  1. Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
  2. Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
  4. Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
  5. Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
  6. Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
  • Extra water as needed

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
  4. Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
  8. Allow to cool completely before storing.

How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

  • 145g tuna chunks in spring water
  • 120g plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried catnip
  • 1 egg

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
  2. Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
  5. Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Exotic Shorthair, and at what times?

Kittens need three to four meals a day, while adults do well on several small portions. There's no set feeding time, so choose consistent times that fit your routine. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.23

What should an Exotic Shorthair eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a complete, animal-protein-based cat food. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol. Always check with your vet for a full list of unsafe items.239

Does an Exotic Shorthair need baths?

Baths aren't routine, but can help during heavy shedding to remove loose undercoat. Otherwise, bathe only if your cat gets very dirty or sticky. Use a cat-safe shampoo and ask your vet for advice.621310

How often does an Exotic Shorthair need brushing?

Brush at least once a week with a metal comb, and increase to daily during seasonal shedding. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests weekly brushing. This keeps the dense undercoat healthy and reduces hairballs.621310 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim an Exotic Shorthair's claws, and how often?

Trim claws every two to three weeks using a cat nail trimmer. Start slowly, doing just a couple of claws per session. Pet Wiki's plan suggests every 21 days. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer.10 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does an Exotic Shorthair need?

Exotic Shorthairs enjoy short, gentle play sessions on the ground, about 20 minutes daily. Use toys like catnip mice or food-dispensing toys. This keeps them fit and happy without overstimulating them.123 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after an Exotic Shorthair's teeth and ears?

Brush your cat's teeth every two days, ideally daily, with a pet-safe toothpaste. Check ears weekly for dirt or redness and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution. Also wipe around the eyes daily to prevent tear stains.6213 Pet Wiki plan

How long does an Exotic Shorthair live?

Exotic Shorthairs typically live between 8 and 15 years. With good care, many enjoy a long, healthy life. Regular vet check-ups help them stay well.123

Is an Exotic Shorthair good with children and other pets?

Yes, Exotic Shorthairs are usually good with children and other pets. They are calm and sweet, though they may be shy with strangers at first. Proper introductions help them feel comfortable.64312

Can an Exotic Shorthair be left alone?

Exotic Shorthairs are people-focused and prefer company, but they can handle being alone during a normal workday. Provide toys and a comfortable environment. They do best in homes where someone spends plenty of time with them.216

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.

You might also like

PersianBritish ShorthairAmerican ShorthairHimalayanScottish Fold

Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Purina UK: Exotic Shorthair purina.co.ukused for weight, lifespan, body, temperament, grooming, exercise, living needs, UK history
  2. PetMD: Exotic Shorthair petmd.comused for weight, height, lifespan, grooming, exercise, diet, social needs, Garfield fact
  3. Hill's Pet: Exotic hillspet.comused for weight, lifespan, temperament, grooming, exercise, diet note
  4. TICA: Exotic Shorthair tica.orgused for history, TICA recognition, temperament, colours, nickname
  5. Wikipedia: Exotic Shorthair en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, history timeline, recognition, body, colours, fun facts
  6. CFA: Exotic cfa.orgused for history, naming, temperament, body, coat, grooming, colours, popularity note, fun facts
  7. cfa.org cfa.org
  8. FIFe: Breeds fifeweb.orgused for recognition category and code
  9. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  10. ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.