British Shorthair Breed Cat Behavior and Health Care Tips

Many people are not aware that British Shorthairs are descended from farm cats and have excellent skills in hunting small rodents and pests. This is due in part to the size and indolent features of the breed. It appears lazy and this is in contrast with its natural abilities in hunting. History - Bred in the nineteenth century, the British Shorthair was a favorite in many households until distinct breeds began popping up in the mide twentieth century. A few British Shorthair enthusiasts continue tirelessly to ensure this breed does not die out.

It wasn't until the late twentieth century, that these wonderful cats were introduced in the United States, where cat fanciers became enthralled with their unusual personality and size. Appearance - Offering many different selections of color, one color in particular was so in demand; it was the only shade and color credited by cat associations for years to come. British Blue was the name of the color of choice, but after World War II, this distinct color of British Shorthairs almost became nonexistent. Enthusiasts of this breed, wanted to preserve conserve the unique blue hue, bred the remaining blue shorthairs with Blue Persians.

This created an increase in the gene pool and literally saved the specific shade from utter elimination. There are different colors to choose from which consist of white, bi-colors, smoke, totoiseshell, point colors with orange or blue eyes. The British Shorthair has a roundish head and wide cheeks as well as a thick and relatively short tail. The British Shorthair, also known for its stockiness, is a large specimen of cat weighing in at a substantial nine to eighteen pounds. British Shorthair Cat Behavior and Characteristics - Referred to as the "four feet on the ground" cat, the British Shorthair is not one for constant offerings of affection. This breed behavior is highly content to go about its day doing its own thing.

The British Shorthair is not suitable for those who desire friendly felines as this breed is not as socially inclined. This breed is truly happy when the food bowl is filled and his activities are his to control. There is little need to cuddle or entertain this breed in order to keep them content.

Since this breed does not demand much of an owner's time, it is the perfect addition to the family of someone who doesn't have a lot of time to spend at home. British Shorthair Cat Health Problems - With the British Shorthair having so many ancestors contributing to the gene pool, this large breed is very healthy overall, with only one flaw that requires consideration. Type A Blood is the common blood type of domestic cats; however, the British Shorthair is known to possess the rare Type B Blood type. This problem can cause complications if surgery is ever required. You should have your local vet check you British Shorthair's blood type to ascertain if it is a rare blood type, to decrease the chances of confusion late on.

It is easy to care for and groom your British Shorthair. With the texture of their coat being rough and thick, a once a week combing should be sufficient to remove loose hairs and particles of dirt. If your short on time, but still want a cat, the unassuming, self contained personality of a British Shorthair is definitely worth looking in to. It's sure to be a perfect fit.

Moses Wright likes to help fellow cat owners learn more about their cat breed whenever he is free. You can find more resources on cat illnesses symptoms, list of cat breed facts and information on his web site.