British Shorthair

I had never taken much notice of this breed until I was fortunate to get one of my own a couple of years ago.

The breed comes in many different colours, the plain coloured cats are known as 'selfs'. Selfs maybe white, black, blue (as in the picture), red or cream, or one of the newer colours such as lilac, cinamon, fawn or chocolate.

There are also what they call patterned cats, eg Tabbies or Spotteds in various colours with or without the Silver gene; this latter gene has the effect of producing a silver undercoat. (the silver tabby can be seen on the whiskas packets and are rare to come by, I'm trying to find one to accompany my blue).

There are also smoked, tipped, colour-points, bi-colour and tortoiseshell .

Temperament

British Shorthairs are an easygoing breed.

They do say that this bred isn't very vocal, but my cat (female) contradicts this and is always 'talking to me' as she follows me around the house. I guess with any breed they all have their own individuality.

British Shorthairs are wonderful cats for people who work, as they are very happy just to laze around the house while you are out.

Some british shorthairs don't mind being cuddled and fussed, but most prefer to keep four paws on the ground and have you pat them rather than pick them up -which is true of my cat, she panics when her legs aren't touching the floor, but loves to sit on my lap while I'm trying to watch TV.

They are great with children because of their laid back nature and know when to get out of the way if the kids start to get over excited.

Appearance

Medium-to-large-size cat (the male being substantially larger than the female), well rounded head, large round eyes, short stocky legs, short nose. Some people have been quoted as saying "a chubby chipmunk appearance." On the whole very cute looking cats.

Useful Contacts

If you are considering buying one of these lovely animals may I suggest you try the following link:

www.britishshorthaircatclub.co.uk

Most breeders/owners of the british shorthair tend to keep them as indoor cats, although I know people who do let them roam, but they are so cute I also know cats that have been stolen if they are allowed to roam freely.

At the moment you can expect to pay £300 - £350 for a shorthair kitten, but have a look around every now and then breeders do look to find new homes for their older cats when their breeding/stud days are over.