Exotic Shorthair: Complete Guide to Care, Personality & Health

If the Persian is the high-maintenance supermodel of the cat world, the Exotic Shorthair is her equally gorgeous twin who rolls out of bed looking perfect without any effort. Affectionately nicknamed the “lazy man’s Persian,” the Exotic Shorthair delivers everything people love about the Persian — the sweet, round face, the gentle personality, the calm disposition, the impossibly expressive eyes — packaged in a plush, teddy-bear coat that requires a fraction of the grooming commitment. For owners who fell in love with the Persian’s face but dreaded the daily grooming marathon, the Exotic Shorthair is the breed that was literally created to solve that problem.

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Breed Overview

The Exotic Shorthair is a medium-sized, cobby-bodied cat breed with a flat, round face, large expressive eyes, and a dense, plush double coat that gives it a teddy-bear appearance. Developed in the 1960s by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs, the Exotic Shorthair is genetically a Persian with a shorter coat — and shares the Persian’s calm temperament, sweet nature, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) health considerations.

The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) classifies the Exotic Shorthair in the Persian breed group, and the breed shares the identical breed standard with the Persian in every respect except coat length. TICA recognizes the Exotic Shorthair as a standalone breed.

Exotic Shorthairs are consistently one of the most popular cat breeds in CFA registration statistics. Their combination of adorable appearance, gentle temperament, and manageable grooming needs makes them ideal companions for families, seniors, apartment dwellers, and first-time cat owners.

History & Origin

The Exotic Shorthair’s creation was, in many ways, an accident that became a revelation. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, American Shorthair breeders began quietly crossing their cats with Persians to improve coat density, introduce the silver color, and refine body type. The resulting kittens had the Persian’s round face and stocky body but with a short, plush coat — and they were beautiful.

However, these hybrid kittens posed a problem for the American Shorthair community. Purists argued that the crossbreeding was diluting the American Shorthair’s natural, all-American appearance with Persian features. Rather than hiding the Persian influence, CFA judge Jane Martinke proposed a solution: recognize these hybrids as a new breed entirely.

In 1966, CFA accepted the Exotic Shorthair as a recognized breed. The breed was initially created using crosses between Persians and American Shorthairs, but Burmese and Russian Blue were also used in early development to introduce the shorthair gene. Once the shorthair gene was established in the breeding population, CFA restricted outcrossing to Persians only — a policy that remains in place today.

Because the Exotic Shorthair’s gene pool is essentially the Persian gene pool with the addition of a shorthair gene, Exotic Shorthair breeding programs occasionally produce long-haired kittens. These long-haired offspring of Exotic Shorthair parents are registerable as Persians by CFA — a unique arrangement that further underscores how closely the two breeds are related.

Today, the Exotic Shorthair regularly ranks among CFA’s top five most popular breeds, often surpassing the Persian itself. The breed has proven that the Persian’s greatest appeal — its face and temperament — can be delivered in a more practical, lower-maintenance package without sacrificing any of the charm.

Physical Characteristics

The Exotic Shorthair is, in every respect except coat, identical to the Persian in physical structure. CFA’s breed standard for the Exotic Shorthair mirrors the Persian standard point for point.

Head and Face

The Exotic Shorthair has a round, massive head with a flat face, very short nose, and a pronounced “break” between the forehead and the nose (the hallmark brachycephalic profile). The cheeks are full and round, the jaws broad and powerful, and the chin firm. The eyes are the breed’s most captivating feature — they are large, round, full, and set wide apart with an expression that ranges from sweetly innocent to deeply judgmental depending on the cat’s mood. Eye color correlates with coat color and includes brilliant copper, deep blue, green, and odd-eyed combinations.

The ears are small, rounded at the tips, and set far apart and low on the head — giving the Exotic Shorthair a rounded, dome-like head silhouette from the front.

Body

The Exotic Shorthair is cobby — meaning short, compact, and low on the legs with a broad chest, massive shoulders, and a well-rounded midsection. Males typically weigh 10 to 14 pounds, while females range from 7 to 11 pounds. Despite their round appearance, Exotic Shorthairs are solidly built with good muscle tone beneath their plush coat. The legs are short, thick, and strong with large, round paws. The tail is short, carried without a curve, and proportionate to the body.

Coat

This is where the Exotic Shorthair distinguishes itself from its Persian parent. The coat is medium in length — noticeably longer and denser than a typical shorthaired cat, but dramatically shorter than the Persian’s flowing mane. It is a thick, dense double coat with a soft, plush texture that stands away from the body slightly, giving the cat its characteristic “stuffed animal” appearance. The coat feels like touching a luxurious plush toy — thick, springy, and incredibly soft.

The Exotic Shorthair comes in every color and pattern recognized for Persians, including solid (white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, lilac), tabby, silver and golden, smoke, bi-color, calico, himalayan (pointed), and chinchilla.

Personality & Temperament

The Exotic Shorthair is the calm, quiet anchor in a world of high-energy cat breeds. Their temperament makes them ideal for owners who want a genuinely gentle, low-drama companion.

Calm and Easygoing

Exotic Shorthairs are not cats who climb curtains, knock objects off shelves, or race through the house at 3 AM. They are calm, deliberate, and content to observe the world from a comfortable cushion. Their low activity level means they are happy with moderate play sessions — a gentle game with a feather wand, batting at a slow-rolling ball — and do not require the intensive exercise regimen of high-energy breeds like the Bengal or Abyssinian.

Quietly Affectionate

Exotic Shorthairs are affectionate but not demanding about it. They will sit beside you on the couch, follow you from room to room at a leisurely pace, and curl up on your lap when invited — but they are not typically the “climbing on your shoulders and sticking their face in your face” type of cat. Their affection is warm but measured, demonstrative without being overwhelming. They are more likely to gaze at you adoringly from across the room than to demand immediate attention with loud vocalizations.

Sweet-Tempered

The Exotic Shorthair is one of the gentlest, most even-tempered cat breeds. They are rarely aggressive, almost never destructive, and have a patience with children and other pets that borders on saintly. Their tolerance and soft nature make them excellent family cats, especially in households with young children who are learning how to interact with animals.

Slightly More Active Than Persians

While the Exotic Shorthair shares the Persian’s calm disposition, many breeders and owners note that Exotics tend to be slightly more playful and curious than their long-haired counterparts — likely an influence from the American Shorthair genes in their background. They are more likely to chase a toy, investigate a new object, and engage in spontaneous play than a Persian, making them a nice middle ground between the Persian’s serene passivity and the energy of more active breeds.

Health & Lifespan

The Exotic Shorthair has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. As a breed that shares its genetic foundation with the Persian, it is susceptible to the same health conditions — most of which are related to its brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure.

Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome

The Exotic Shorthair’s extremely flat face creates shortened nasal passages and can compromise normal breathing. Symptoms include noisy breathing, snoring, wheezing, exercise intolerance, and potential respiratory distress in hot or humid conditions. Severely affected cats may need surgical intervention (stenotic nares correction) to widen narrowed nostrils. Keep Exotic Shorthairs in temperature-controlled environments and avoid vigorous exercise in warm weather.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

PKD is a hereditary condition that causes fluid-filled cysts to develop in the kidneys, eventually impairing kidney function. It affects Persians and Exotic Shorthairs at elevated rates. According to the Cornell Feline Health Center, a DNA test for the PKD1 gene mutation is available, and responsible breeders screen all breeding cats. Never purchase from a breeder who does not provide PKD test results.

Excessive Tearing and Eye Problems

The flat facial structure compresses the tear ducts, causing chronic tear overflow (epiphora). This results in reddish-brown tear staining beneath the eyes that requires daily cleaning. While primarily a cosmetic issue, chronic moisture around the eyes can also lead to bacterial skin infections if not managed.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

HCM can occur in Exotic Shorthairs, though at rates that are not dramatically elevated above the general cat population. Annual veterinary checkups with cardiac auscultation are recommended, with echocardiographic screening for breeding animals.

Calcium Oxalate Urolithiasis

Exotic Shorthairs and Persians are predisposed to developing calcium oxalate bladder and kidney stones. Adequate hydration (through wet food and water fountains), regular urinalysis, and appropriate diet help minimize this risk.

Dental Malocclusion

The shortened jaw can cause dental crowding and misalignment, leading to periodontal disease and difficulty eating. Regular dental checkups and at-home tooth brushing are important preventive measures.

Grooming & Care

The Exotic Shorthair’s grooming needs are moderate — a significant reduction from the Persian’s daily grooming marathon, but still more involved than most shorthaired breeds.

Coat Care

Brush the Exotic Shorthair’s dense, plush coat 2-3 times per week with a FURminator deshedding tool or a stainless steel comb. The thick double coat sheds moderately year-round and more heavily during seasonal changes. Without regular brushing, loose undercoat can accumulate and cause matting — particularly behind the ears, under the legs, and along the belly. The breed is also prone to hairballs due to the density of fur they ingest during self-grooming.

For more detailed guidance, see our cat grooming guide.

Face Cleaning

Daily face cleaning is non-negotiable for Exotic Shorthairs. Use a soft, damp cloth or a gentle tear stain remover to clean the tear staining beneath the eyes. Dried tear residue can harden into crusty deposits that irritate the skin if left unattended. Make this part of your daily routine — morning wipe-downs take less than 30 seconds and prevent significant discomfort.

Nail, Ear, and Dental Care

Trim nails every 2-3 weeks. Check ears weekly for wax buildup — the Exotic’s ear canals can accumulate debris. Brush teeth at least 2-3 times per week to manage the breed’s predisposition to dental disease related to jaw structure.

Diet & Nutrition

The Exotic Shorthair’s low activity level makes weight management a primary dietary concern. These cats do not burn many calories, and obesity exacerbates their existing brachycephalic breathing challenges.

Key Nutrition Priorities

• Controlled calorie intake — Exotic Shorthairs gain weight easily. Measured portions and scheduled feeding times (rather than free-feeding) are strongly recommended.
• Brachycephalic-friendly kibble — Standard round kibble can be difficult for flat-faced cats to pick up. Royal Canin Persian Breed Health Nutrition features an almond-shaped kibble designed specifically for brachycephalic jaw structures.
• Hairball control — Consider foods with added fiber or hairball control formulas to manage the significant hair ingestion from their dense coat.
• Wet food — Regular wet food inclusion supports hydration, helps prevent urinary stones (to which the breed is predisposed), and is easier for flat-faced cats to eat than dry kibble alone.
• AAFCO certified — Only feed food certified as “complete and balanced” by AAFCO for your cat’s life stage.

For a comprehensive breakdown of nutrition options, see our guide on best cat food.

Living Environment

The Exotic Shorthair is one of the most adaptable, apartment-friendly cat breeds available. Their environmental needs are modest and straightforward.

Temperature Control

Exotic Shorthairs are sensitive to heat due to their brachycephalic structure. Air conditioning in summer is not a luxury — it is a health necessity. Keep indoor temperatures comfortable and never leave an Exotic Shorthair in a hot car, sunroom, or unventilated space. Watch for signs of heat stress: open-mouth breathing, panting, drooling, and lethargy.

Calm Household Preferred

While Exotic Shorthairs get along well with children and other pets, they thrive best in relatively calm households. Constant chaos, loud noise, and aggressive animals can stress these gentle cats. They are excellent companions for seniors, quiet couples, and families with older, respectful children.

Low Vertical Needs

Unlike high-energy breeds that need tall cat trees and climbing walls, Exotic Shorthairs are content with lower perches, window seats, and comfortable ground-level resting spots. A moderate-height cat tree with soft, cushioned platforms suits them better than a towering climbing structure.

Indoor Only

Exotic Shorthairs should be kept strictly indoors. Their calm, trusting temperament and flat facial structure make them poorly equipped for outdoor hazards. They lack the speed, agility, and street smarts to navigate outdoor dangers safely.

Is This Breed Right for You?

An Exotic Shorthair May Be Perfect If You:

• Love the Persian’s face and temperament but prefer less grooming
• Want a calm, quiet, gentle companion who is content with moderate activity
• Live in an apartment or smaller home — Exotic Shorthairs thrive in compact spaces
• Are a first-time cat owner looking for a sweet-tempered, easygoing breed
• Prefer a quiet cat — Exotic Shorthairs are among the least vocal breeds
• Want a cat who is good with children and other gentle pets

An Exotic Shorthair May Not Be Ideal If You:

• Want a highly active, athletic, adventurous cat (consider a Bengal or Abyssinian)
• Are not willing to commit to daily face cleaning for tear stain management
• Live in a hot climate without reliable air conditioning
• Want a completely zero-grooming cat — the dense double coat requires 2-3 brushings per week
• Are uncomfortable with the health realities of brachycephalic breeds (potential breathing issues, eye problems, dental concerns)

Recommended Products for Exotic Shorthairs

Based on the Exotic Shorthair’s specific needs — dense double coat, flat facial structure, low activity level, and tear staining — here are the products we recommend:

1. FURminator Cat Deshedding Tool — Essential for managing the Exotic Shorthair’s thick undercoat. Weekly sessions remove loose fur, reduce shedding, and minimize the hairballs this dense-coated breed is prone to.

2. Arava Tear Stain Remover — Daily tear stain management is a fact of life with flat-faced breeds. A gentle, effective tear stain remover keeps the face clean and prevents the skin irritation caused by dried tear residue.

3. Royal Canin Persian Breed Health Nutrition — Specifically designed for brachycephalic breeds, with a kibble shape that flat-faced cats can actually pick up and chew comfortably. Supports coat health, skin health, and digestive function.

4. Bergan Turbo Scratcher — A low-intensity combo scratcher and ball track that matches the Exotic Shorthair’s moderate play style. Provides gentle stimulation without overwhelming this laid-back breed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an Exotic Shorthair and a Persian?

The Exotic Shorthair is essentially a short-haired Persian. Both breeds share the same flat face, round body, gentle temperament, and breed standard — the only significant difference is coat length. The Persian has a long, flowing coat that requires daily grooming, while the Exotic Shorthair has a dense, plush, medium-length coat that needs only weekly brushing. The Exotic Shorthair was specifically created by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs in the 1960s to produce a Persian with an easier-care coat. If you love the Persian personality but dread daily grooming, the Exotic Shorthair is your answer.

Do Exotic Shorthairs have breathing problems?

Exotic Shorthairs can experience brachycephalic airway syndrome due to their extremely flat facial structure. The shortened nasal passages, compressed airways, and narrowed nostrils can cause noisy breathing, snoring, snorting, exercise intolerance, and in severe cases, respiratory distress — especially in hot or humid weather. Not all Exotic Shorthairs are equally affected; cats with more moderate facial structure have fewer issues. When choosing a breeder, look for cats with slightly less extreme facial flattening and ask about respiratory health in the breeding lines.

Are Exotic Shorthairs good apartment cats?

Exotic Shorthairs are exceptional apartment cats — arguably one of the very best breeds for apartment living. Their low activity level, quiet demeanor, moderate size, and contentment with a calm indoor environment make them ideal for smaller spaces. They do not need the running room and vertical climbing territory that high-energy breeds demand. A comfortable window perch, a soft bed, a few gentle toys, and your regular company are all an Exotic Shorthair needs to be perfectly happy in an apartment.

How much grooming does an Exotic Shorthair need?

Exotic Shorthairs need moderate grooming — significantly less than their Persian cousins, but more than a typical shorthaired cat. Their dense, plush double coat should be brushed 2-3 times per week to remove loose undercoat and prevent matting. They shed more than most shorthairs and are particularly prone to hairballs due to the density of their undercoat. Daily face cleaning is also necessary to manage the tear staining that comes with their flat facial structure.

Are Exotic Shorthairs lazy?

Exotic Shorthairs have a low activity level and are definitely among the calmer, more sedentary cat breeds — but “lazy” is somewhat unfair. They do enjoy play sessions, will chase a toy with genuine interest, and have periods of kitten-like energy (especially in their younger years). They simply do not sustain high activity for long periods and are perfectly content to spend much of their day lounging, observing, and napping in comfortable spots. They are ideal for owners who want a companion cat rather than an adventure partner.

Sources

1. CFA — Exotic Shorthair Breed Profile
2. TICA — Exotic Shorthair Breed Standard
3. Cornell Feline Health Center — Polycystic Kidney Disease
4. AAFP — Cat Friendly Practice Guidelines