The British Shorthair

The British Shorthair has a rags to riches story. Cats introduced into Britain in Roman times were primarily "working animals" that provided a useful service to man by reducing the mouse population. Centuries of "living rough" produced a line of strong, hardy, self-sufficient and street-wise cats with a stamina borne of exposure to all kinds of inclement weather conditions.

Nineteenth century author and artist Harrison Weir so admired these cats’ natural sturdiness and intelligence that he started selectively breeding the most outstanding specimens he could find. Today those same knockabout qualities ensure that the British Shorthair remains among the most versatile and popular of all cat breeds.

A true no-frills, no-fuss feline, the British makes a perfect pet for busy households. Undemanding and untemperamental, it is easy to care for, easy to live with and, most of all, easy to love!

This "gentle giant", with its massive rounded head, thickset cobby body and short legs has a teddy bear appearance and makes a handsome addition to any home. Its dense but easy to groom fur comes in a comprehensive range of beautiful colourings and coat patterns. The most popular is undoubtedly the classic British Blue. Apart from the more traditional solid colours, the British Shorthair now also comes in attractive new hues and patterns such as lilac and white bi-colour and silver spotted tabby, as well as "Siamese style" colour pointed markings.

British Shorthairs generally get on well with other cats, plus dogs and pets of just about all kinds. They are also extremely resilient when interacting with children. In fact, their placid, easygoing, unflappable nature means that they will take virtually anything in their stride.

The British Shorthair gravitates towards the comforts of home and hearth where it enjoys snoozing and lounging around the house. Having "fallen on its feet", this cool, calm and collected cat nowadays quietly embraces family life, while making a decorative, dignified and much-loved member of the household.