Cousin of the Chartreux and the European, the British Shorthair is recognized by its rounded shapes which make it look like a big teddy bear.
1. British origins
The origins of the British Shorthair are not so easy to identify. Legend has it that a Greek general fled ancient Egypt accompanied by his cats, his favorite being named Scota. After reaching Portugal, this general’s cats mated and multiplied. One day, a descendant of this general went to discover the northern islands and embarked with him children of Scota. He discovered an island where he decided to settle with his cats and named it Scotaland, in homage to the cat of his deceased ancestor. Then the island became Scotland.
It was only in the 19th century that these “alley” cats, which had since spread all over the island, were recognized as a breed. In effect, the English wanted a purely Anglo-Saxon breed of cats and they made crosses of these cats with Persians. The beauty of the British Shorthair then seduced a large part of the population and its popularity crossed borders.
2. A powerful and rounded physique
The British Shorthair is a rather imposing-looking cat given that it weighs between 4 and 8 kg. His body is strong and muscular and his head is round like that of a teddy bear. It is often said that she is apple shaped. Her round eyes, usually gold or copper, match the color of her dress, her nose is curved, and her ears are very pointed.
3. A coat of wool
The hair of the British Shorthair has the particularity of being very short and tight, as indicated by his name. The density of the hair is so strong that it makes it look like laine and makes it a incredible sweetness. It’s simple, it feels like stroking a stuffed animal!
All coat colors are allowed, but blue is the most popular.
4. A calm and independent temperament
The British Shorthair cat is a particularly feline kind and tolerant, especially with children and other animals. Very attached to his master, he needs a lot of affection, but also tolerates loneliness very well.
His independent, reserved and proud character can sometimes make him a little stubborn. He needs to have limits imposed on him so as not to take over his human.
5. A great hunter
The British Shorthair inherited from its rat-hunting ancestors a great predatory instinct. As a result, he has a strong need for space and freedom. Living in an apartment is therefore not recommended for this magnificent feline. On the other hand, because of its independent temperamentt, it is necessary to teach him very early to come back when you call him.
Very playful, he needs to be surrounded by toys, but also to be able to have fun with the children of the family.
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