Exotic Shorthair

The Exotic Shorthair is the answer to a specific prayer: “I want a Persian cat, but I don’t want to brush a cat for 20 minutes every day.” Often called “the lazy man’s Persian,” this breed has the same adorable, flat face and sweet personality as its long-haired cousin, but with a short, plush coat that is easy to manage.

1. History and Origins: A Happy Accident

The Exotic Shorthair didn’t start as an attempt to make an easy-care Persian.

The Secret Outcross

In the 1950s and 60s, American Shorthair breeders secretly began breeding their cats with Persians to introduce the stunning silver color and green eyes into their lines. The resulting kittens were beautiful but didn’t look like American Shorthairs anymore—they had rounder heads and shorter noses.

Official Recognition

Recognizing the potential of this new “Persian-like” cat, breeders like Jane Martinke proposed a new breed class. In 1966, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) accepted the breed under the name “Exotic Shorthair.” Today, they are often outcrossed with Persians to maintain their type, meaning long-haired Exotics (which look exactly like Persians) are sometimes born in litters.

2. Appearance: The Teddy Bear

If you see a cat that looks exactly like a teddy bear, it’s probably an Exotic.

The Head

Like the Persian, the Exotic has a massive, round head with a flat face (brachycephalic). They have small, rounded ears set low on the head and huge, round, wide-set eyes that give them a perpetually innocent expression.

The Coat

This is the main difference. The coat is short but incredibly dense and plush. It stands away from the body due to a thick undercoat, making the cat feel soft and springy to the touch.

Body

They are “cobby” cats—short, thick legs, a broad chest, and a short, thick tail. They are heavy and solid.

3. Personality: Sweet and Simple

Exotics are known for being peaceful, loving companions.

A Bit More Zest

While they share the Persian’s calm nature, the American Shorthair influence gives them a tiny bit more energy. They are more likely to play with a fishing rod toy or chase a ball than a purebred Persian, but they are still very much lap cats.

Quiet Devotion

They are not vocal. They communicate with their big eyes and soft chirps. They love to sit on your lap or sleep on your pillow. Males are often described as exceptionally sweet and affectionate, while females can be a bit more independent.

Adaptable

They fit well into most households, getting along with children and other pets as long as they are treated gently. They are not jumpers and prefer to keep their feet on the ground (or on the sofa).

4. Care and Needs

Grooming

“Lazy man’s Persian” doesn’t mean “no grooming.” Their coat is so dense that it sheds quite a bit. A weekly combing with a steel comb removes loose undercoat and keeps them looking tidy. However, they do not mat like Persians.

Face Cleaning

Because of their flat faces, their tear ducts often overflow. You must wipe their eyes daily with a warm, damp cloth to prevent staining and infection. Their facial folds may also need cleaning to keep them dry and healthy.

Indoor Life

These are strictly indoor cats. They are not built for speed or fighting and have no street smarts.

5. Health and Lifespan

The Exotic Shorthair shares the same health concerns as the Persian due to their facial structure.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

Their short noses can cause breathing difficulties. They may snore or wheeze. Care must be taken in hot weather, as they can overheat easily.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

A genetic kidney condition prevalent in Persian lines. Responsible breeders test for this.

Eye Issues

Their prominent eyes are prone to injury, ulcers, and excessive tearing.

6. Is an Exotic Shorthair Right for You?

Pros

• Look: Adorable, unique “squashed” face.
• Personality: Sweet, calm, and affectionate.
• Maintenance: Much easier to groom than a Persian.

Cons

• Health: Breathing and eye issues are common.
• Cleaning: Daily eye wiping is required.
• Shedding: Dense coat sheds a surprising amount.

Conclusion

The Exotic Shorthair is the perfect compromise. It offers all the love and cuteness of the Persian without the high-maintenance coat. Ideally suited for apartment living and quiet homes, this little teddy bear will bring warmth and peace to your life.