Exotic Shorthair

Many people love the Persian cat for its pansy-like face and docile temperament, but they simply don’t have the time or desire to brush and brush that long coat of fur on a daily basis. For them, there is the Exotic Shorthair. The Exotic resembles a Persian in every way, except it lacks the long fur.

Physically, the Exotic is built like a Persian: It has the same rounded face, cheeks, and stocky body that the Persian has under its extra long fur. At cat shows, the showing of an Exotic is like showing a Persian in its underwear: Physical defects are much harder to conceal.

The first Exotics were bred in the 1960s from Persians and American Shorthairs. The Exotic’s temperament is very similar to the Persian’s quiet and docile nature. However, the Exotic is a bit more lively and adaptable. While a Persian will serenely play with a bit of feather or paper, the Exotic is much more likely to pounce. They are curious and clever. Many people think this spark comes from the Exotic’s American Shorthair ancestors.

Although the Exotic does not require as much grooming as the Persian, this breed does have other needs. Its large eyes are prone to tearing up like the Persians, which means that the Exotic occasionally needs a gentle eyewash.

If you want a cat with the looks and temperament of the Persian, but you really don’t have the time to invest in daily brushing, the Exotic cat may fit your lifestyle better. The “lazy man’s Persian” is a sweet-natured cat that’s easy to love.