British Shorthair
![](https://catlives.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/British-shorthair-cat-compressed-1-540x360-1.jpg)
Origin
United Kingdom
Height
11"-14"
Adult Weight
8-18 pounds
Life Span
12-16 years
TEMPERAMENT
Affectionate, easygoing, sensible, friendly
OTHER NAMES
Britanica, Lowlander
Group
Medium-to-large shorthair
Price
$300-$5,000
Personality and Temperament
Care
- NUTRITION
- GROOMING
- EXERCISE
- HEALTH
Characteristics
History
The Breed Standard
Body
The British Shorthair is a large cat with rounded features throughout. The body is compact and powerful with a broad chest and strong hips. Mature males can reach 17 pounds and mature females can reach 12 pounds.
Head
The head is well-rounded, and is perched on a short, thick neck. The forehead is rounded, with a slightly flattened plane toward the top of the skull. Both genders display jowls, with males having larger jowls than females. The muzzle is well-developed, with prominent whisker pads. These facial features give the British Shorthair cat its signature “smile.”
Eyes
The eyes should be large and round. They should be level and set far apart. Eyes can be of any color that complements the cat's coat color.
Ears
British Shorthair cats should have medium size ears that are broad at the base and round at the tips. The ears should be set far apart, and the outer edges should continue the rounded contour of the head.
Legs & Paws
The legs should be straight and well-proportioned in comparison with the body. They should exhibit strength and ample musculature.
Tail
The British Shorthair's tail should be of medium length with a thick base and a slight taper that leads to a well-rounded tip.
Coat
The British Shorthair exhibits a thick coat that is dense but not double.
Color
British Shorthair cats may exhibit any coat color and pattern. Nose leather and paw pad color should complement the coat color.