Breeders crossed the American Shorthair with the Persian in the United States around 1960. Thus were born shorthaired Persians, called Exotic Shorthairs and recognized by the C.F.A in 1966. They have nearly the same body as the Persian, but a thick, dense short coat. They are also known as “The Lazy Man’s Persian”
History: In the early 1960s, American Shorthair breeders began using Persians as outcrosses in an attempt to strengthen their type. However, the resulting kittens were unique and had a decidedly different appearance than they were looking for. This caused quite a furor between American Shorthair and Persian breeders in CFA. Finally, because the look was appealing, the breeders working with the hybrid lines decided to work on a new breed to be called the Exotic Shorthair.
Appearance: the ideal Exotic should present an impression of a heavily boned, well balanced cat with a sweet expression and soft, round lines. The large, round eyes set wide apart in a large round head contribute to the overall look and expression. The Exotic Shorthair cats have a nose that is short and wide with full cheeks. The legs are short and strong. The tail is short and usually carried with a curve. The coat is dense, plush, soft and full of life. Standing out from the body due to a rich, thick undercoat. Medium in length. Acceptable length depends on proper undercoat. The Exotic coat is unique to the breed and gives them a soft, rounded, teddy bear look.
Size: Weight – male: 7-14 lb
female: 5-12 lb
Temperament: The Exotic Shorthair has a calm and gentle personality reminiscent of the Persian, but it is more vigorous than its longhaired ancestor. Playful and curious, it is friendly to other cats and dogs. It is easygoing and quiet, as it rarely mews. It doesn’t like being left alone, it needs the presence of its owner, but it’s always independent. They tend to show more affection and loyalty than most breeds and make excellent lap cats. Their calm and steady nature makes them ideal apartment cats for city dwellers. Their voices are seldom heard. The Exotic is an ideal breed that produces a quiet, sweet, peaceful and loyal companion. However, Exotics retain some of the energetic spark of their American Shorthair forbears and they are often capable mouse hunters. Exotics stay playful as adults and bring pleasure for many years. All things considered, the Exotic is a wonderful addition to any family. Adorable to look at, peaceful and clean, what cat could be better for you to ask for. The Exotic is really the “best of two worlds.”
Health: At the top of the list are problems associated with an asymetrical jaw. These problems can affect the cat’s ability to bite and eat properly, and can also lead to dental problems. Other problems: Sinus problems, tear duct problems, eye problems such as Keratosis Sequestrium. The Exotic’s tears are prone to overflowing the nasolacrimal duct, dampening and staining the face. This can be relieved by periodically wiping the cat’s face with a cloth moistened with water or one of the commercial preparations made expressly for the purpose. Most of the other problems are caused by careless breeding, excessive inbreeding, or overbreeding for the extreme.
Life expectancy: over 15 years
Grooming: The Exotic is able to keep its own fur tidy with little human assistance, though it is recommended to weekly brush and comb in order to remove loose hair and reduce shedding and hairballs.
Kitten price: $350.00-$1000.00