What You Need To Know Before You Adopt A British Shorthair

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By Life With Cats

British Shorthairs are a perfect choice if you’re looking for a new feline companion. They are popular for their puffy coats and agreeable demeanor. But there’s much more to this cat than just that!

Before you consider owning one, it’s important to learn more about this charming breed – from how it likes to play and eat to what its needs are. It’s best to be prepared for how to help your new cat adjust to life with you. So here are some things you need to know before you welcome a new British Shorthair to your home.

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British Shorthairs Love New Friends

Isn’t that lucky? British Shorthairs are some of the friendliest cats you’ll ever meet. You won’t have any problems getting to know your new cat because they won’t shy away from playtime or just relaxing with you while you figure out what to do for the day.

They’re also very good companions for children. These kitties will happily oblige kids and their infectious energy for playing and running around. They’re also great for sharing toys with. Of course, you still need to supervise both of them when they’re playing to make sure you teach your kid how to treat them as a friend and not a plaything and to teach your cat to play nice! Your British Shorthair will treasure their playmates for life.

Aside from family, they are usually very comfortable with strangers too! If you have any visitors at home, they’ll be delighted to know that your cat has no problem chilling beside them. The same goes for animal strangers as well. They get along with other cats, but they also get along with dogs too! Just make sure the dog isn’t aggressive or try to build your cat’s friendship with dogs that are still puppies.

British Shorthairs are Homebodies

This is good news if you’re also one yourself! Most cats are, but British Shorthairs are particularly relaxed and low-activity felines. They tend not to be hyperactive and they rarely roam around if they’re bored. They’re content to lie down and observe their surroundings when they’re not in the mood to play.

Their calm and quiet disposition might entice you to pick them up and cuddle them when you’re both resting at home. We don’t encourage this as British Shorthairs can be a bit fussy with physical affection. They’re friendly, but sometimes, not that friendly! Get to know your cat’s comfort levels first so you both understand the best ways to show love to each other.

Despite their preference to relax, we still suggest you play with them from time to time during the day. An excessively sedentary lifestyle can result in several health problems for your cat and can even result in behavioral problems such as peeing or pooping outside their litter box. 

They Generally Have Good Health

If you’re doing enough to give your cat some form of activity every day, British Shorthairs are actually quite a healthy breed. They’re not susceptible to many diseases like some special breeds are. It’s good to make sure that your cat breeder was able to conduct tests to ensure they don’t have any genetic diseases.

British Shorthairs can also live very long lives! They’re known to live for around 20 years. While it’s nice that they’re going to be around for a long time, it also means you’ll need to ensure they won’t have a hard time being a senior cat. Giving them a good diet and taking them to regular checkups can help a lot in keeping them in tip-top shape. Eventually, they’re going to have different needs as a senior, so it’s good to be prepared for that.

They Can Be Trained Well

British Shorthairs are among the most intelligent cat breeds in the world. Due to their low level of activity, they’re not very prone to boredom or a lot of physical stimulation. They’re a lot more inclined to have fun by learning tricks or games. You can get creative about thinking of things to do with your cat, but they’d likely enjoy climbing on and lounging in cat trees.

Some high IQ cats tend to be quite mischievous, but the British Shorthair won’t give you much trouble. Keep giving them new mental challenges and train them to do simple commands like sitting, following you around, or playing fetch like you would a dog.

You can also use a clicker to train them to do tricks when the clicker sounds. As with any pet that’s being trained, give them positive reinforcement and reward them with a treat or some catnip. You can even teach them to give you a high-five if they do a good job!

Grooming Is Simple But Essential

British Shorthairs don’t have a lot of special needs when it comes to grooming, but they still need your care to keep them clean and looking good. They tend to shed a bit so be sure to regularly brush them to get rid of any loose fur. Aside from avoiding hairballs, brushing their fur can be a really relaxing activity for them that they can enjoy.

Brushing their teeth regularly is also important. They’re usually more amicable to this if you choose a nice meat-flavored toothpaste. Also, since British Shorthairs don’t often claw on things, you’ll need to clip their claws often.

Summary

British Shorthairs are great companions that won’t overwork you with hyperactivity. They’re friendly, agreeable, calm, and very gentle. Whether you need a buddy while you’re lazing around at home or you just want some company even if they usually lie down all day, British Shorthairs will happily be there with you!
It’s always important to make sure your British Shorthair comes from responsible and reputable cat breeders. Not only do you get a good idea of their health background, but it makes sure that your cat was born and raised in a loving environment. Once your British Shorthair comes home with you, you’ll find that you just made a friend for life.

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