Which cat breed has the densest coat?
The British Shorthair has the densest coat of any cat breed, with more hairs per square inch than any other feline, which gives it a crisp, plush feel.
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British Shorthair Facts
British shorthair facts and facts about british shorthairs.
10 facts on this shelf
Where did the British Shorthair's ancestors come from?
The British Shorthair is believed to descend from cats that the Romans brought to Britain about 2,000 years ago to control rodents.
Who is considered the father of the cat fancy?
Harrison Weir, known as the "father of the cat fancy," organized the first modern cat show at London's Crystal Palace in 1871, and British Shorthairs were among the cats he championed.
What is a "British Blue"?
The blue-gray British Shorthair is so iconic that the breed was once commonly called the "British Blue," even though it comes in many other colors.
Why do British Shorthairs look like they're smiling?
British Shorthairs have round faces, chubby cheeks, and prominent whisker pads that give them a permanent smiling expression.
How long do British Shorthairs take to mature?
British Shorthairs are slow to mature and may not reach their full size and muscle until about three years old.
How did World War II affect the British Shorthair?
The British Shorthair population dropped sharply during WWII, and breeders afterward crossed them with Persians and other breeds to rebuild their numbers.
What is unusual about the British Shorthair's blood type?
British Shorthairs have an unusually high rate of type B blood compared with most cats, which matters a lot for blood transfusions and for breeding, since mismatched blood types can harm newborn kittens.
Do British Shorthairs like being held?
British Shorthairs are affectionate but often don't love being picked up and carried. They tend to prefer keeping all four paws on the ground and sitting next to their people instead.
What is the British Shorthair's personality like?
British Shorthairs are calm, reserved, and polite cats that will often wait to be invited onto a lap. Once there, they tend to stay put.