British Shorthair cat portrait

British Shorthair Cat Breed Guide

The Easygoing Teddy Bear

The British Shorthair is a sturdy, round-faced cat with a very dense short coat and a calm, easygoing personality. They are usually less lap-bound than Ragdolls, need only weekly brushing, and are prone to gaining weight, so portion control and play matter.

By the CatCorners editorial team · Updated · 2 min read

British Shorthair at a glance

Origin
United Kingdom
Size
Medium to large: roughly 8–17 lb (3.6–7.7 kg), males larger
Coat
Short, very dense, brush weekly
Temperament
Calm, independent, affectionate on their terms
Energy
Low to moderate
Grooming
Low
Known for
Round face, plush "teddy bear" coat

What is a British Shorthair like?

British Shorthairs are sturdy, broad-chested cats with round faces, large round eyes and a dense, plush coat. The CFA recognized the breed in 1980, although the type itself is much older. Their personality is typically calm and easygoing: they like being near their people but are often happier beside you than on top of you, and many do not enjoy being carried.

How big do British Shorthairs get?

They are medium to large, commonly somewhere between about 8 and 17 pounds (3.6 to 7.7 kg), with males heavier. They mature slowly and keep a stocky build for life.

How much grooming does a British Shorthair need?

Less than most pedigreed cats. A weekly brush keeps the dense coat in good shape, and you may want to brush more often in spring and autumn when they shed. Regular nail trims and tooth care are still important.

Do British Shorthairs gain weight easily?

They can. Their low-key lifestyle means calories add up quickly, and extra weight raises the risk of diabetes and joint problems in cats generally. Measure meals, choose a complete and balanced diet appropriate to age, and add short play sessions with a wand toy or interactive toy. Our nutrition hub explains how to read a feeding guide.

What health problems affect British Shorthairs?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) occurs in the breed, and heart screening of breeding cats by echocardiogram is something to ask a breeder about. A genetic study of several breeds, including British Shorthair, advised that routine DNA testing for HCM is currently supported only for Maine Coons and Ragdolls, so there is no breed-wide gene test to rely on for British Shorthairs. Dental disease and obesity are common in many cats and worth monitoring.

Is a British Shorthair right for you?

It suits people who want a low-maintenance, quiet cat that is comfortable alone during the workday. If you want a more demonstrative cat, consider a Ragdoll or Siamese.

Note: this guide is general information about a breed, not veterinary advice. Individual cats vary. Talk to your veterinarian about your own cat's health.

Sources and further reading