British Shorthairs 101

The British Shorthair is a large, calm cat most commonly seen in a solid, blue-gray color, but other colors exist too. They are stocky cats with short legs and large, somewhat flat faces. They are good lap cats, providing companionship and warmth while their owners take it easy.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about British Shorthairs

Easy-going with a plush coat

Size
12 to 16 inches tall
Group Size Large
Weight
8 to 12 lbs
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Lifespan
12 to 18 years
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My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult British Shorthair

7 years to 10 years

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Ear infection

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Dental disease

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Diabetes mellitus

Senior British Shorthair

11+ years

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Kidney failure

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Dental disease

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Urinary tract disease

British Shorthair kitten

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Respiratory infection

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Gastroenteritis

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Ear infection

Young adult British Shorthair

2 years to 6 years

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Colitis

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Conjunctivitis

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Gastroenteritis

Mature adult British Shorthair

7 years to 10 years

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Ear infection

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Dental disease

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Diabetes mellitus

Senior British Shorthair

11+ years

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Kidney failure

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Dental disease

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Urinary tract disease

British Shorthair kitten

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Respiratory infection

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Gastroenteritis

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Ear infection

Young adult British Shorthair

2 years to 6 years

Risk level for common British Shorthair conditions

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Colitis

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Conjunctivitis

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Gastroenteritis

Nationwide can help you save on your British Shorthair's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

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Did you know?

The introduction of Persians to native UK breeds added size to the British Shorthair.

Good grooming, feline style

Cats with long fur can use a little more help than their other cats, especially if the fur is silky. Brush regularly, and check for mats behind the ears, around the neck and throughout the rear “pants.” Older cats may have more difficulty keeping up with grooming, and this can result in soiled fur and painful mats. (Neglected grooming can also be a sign that your cat isn't well, so talk to your vet if your cat's coat is looking dull, unkempt or matted.)

Consider keeping nail tips trimmed and brushing your cat’s teeth. Both procedures need to be gradually introduced with affection, patience and the yummiest of small treats, but they pay off in the long run for you both. Ask your veterinary healthcare team to demonstrate, or look up how-to videos by veterinary professionals online.

Dealing with instinctive behaviors

Double Trouble

Litter box rules

There are a few basic rules when it comes to litter boxes:

  • No sharing: One box per cat, plus one more.
  • Privacy please: Put each box in a quiet, private location.
  • No fancy fillers: Most cats prefer an unscented clumping litter.
  • Clean frequently: No one likes a dirty bathroom.

Since inappropriate elimination (accidents outside the litter box) is often a symptom of a health problem in cats, it’s best to consult your veterinarian first, especially if the problem is new. They can advise on the next steps, including how to address non-medical reasons for the problem.

Furniture Mauler

Scratch & Sniff

Scratching is necessary and satisfying for cats, so point their claws toward appropriate surfaces, using feline hormone spray and rubbing fresh catnip to encourage them. Entice them to shift away from furniture by:

  • Providing vertical and horizontal scratching choices
  • Offering a variety of materials, such as carpet, cardboard and rope
  • Putting tin foil or double-sided tape on surfaces you don't want them scratching
  • Trimming the tips of your cat’s nails regularly

British Shorthair fun facts

Top girl names for British Shorthairs

100%

of British Shorthairs are female

0%

of British Shorthairs are male

Top boy names for British Shorthairs

Nationwide loves British Shorthairs of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

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