Quck answer
The British Shorthair is a popular breed of cat known for its teddy bear-like appearance. With a round face and stocky build, these cats are often referred to as “teddy bear cats”. They are a calm and affectionate breed, making them great pets for families and individuals alike. While they may be a bit more laid back than other breeds, they still enjoy playing and interacting with their owners. British Shorthairs come in a variety of colors and patterns, including classic blue and white, black, and tabby. Overall, they are a beloved breed that is sure to bring joy to any household.
Pets
The British Shorthair breed of cats is known for their roundness, from their circular head to the puffy whisker pads over their upper lip and rounded paws.
Dale Midkiff starred in the original version of “Pet Semetary,” but Church, the undead housecat, stole the show. Director Mary Lambert used over six British Shorthair cats to bring the four-legged character to life. She chose this breed because of their poofy, round-faced appearance that looked like sentient plush toys.
British Shorthairs have colorful eyes, dense fur, and a rotund appearance, earning them the nickname “Teddy bear cats.” This iconic breed has been around for many years and has ties to the first cat shows.
Did British Shorthairs Originate in Rome?
A genetics study from 2007 suggested that the domestication of cats began 12,000 years ago, during the time of woolly mammoths. The Felis silvestris wildcat, which is native to Africa, Asia, and Europe, is the ancestor of all modern-day pet store cats. Early farmers found cats to be efficient predators and useful for keeping pests like mice and rats out of grain stores.
Cats were revered in ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire. Housecats were depicted in mosaics that survived the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 C.E. and a 6th-century historian named Agathias kept at least one. When Rome established a foothold in Great Britain during the first century C.E., it is likely that some expatriates brought their housecats along with them. These cats interbred with wildcats in England, producing the earliest British Shorthairs.
From Vermin-slayers to Best in Show
Britons used to view cats in utilitarian terms, as helpful vermin-slayers. However, this changed in 1871 when animal illustrator Harrison Weir organized the first modern cat show at London’s Crystal Palace. Weir created anatomical standards for judges to evaluate different breeds, including the British Shorthair. By then, this breed had already become popular in culture. The smiling Cheshire Cat in Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” was based on the friendly-looking British Shorthair breed.
British Shorthairs have “upturned” mouths and pronounced, well-rounded whisker pads. The head looks distinctly circular, and the paws have a rounded shape overall. The legs, neck, and tail are all thickset, while the chest is noticeably broad. The breed has short fur and comes in various colors, including solid bluish-gray, known as “British Blues,” and white, red, and black. Some have light-furred underbellies.
The coppery eyes of British Shorthairs stand out against various backgrounds. These cats tend to be reserved, but affectionate towards their owners. It’s important for keepers to monitor their food intake to prevent obesity. Adult males should weigh between 9-11 pounds, while females can be slightly lighter. The average lifespan of British Shorthairs is 14-20 years. This breed is considered “four paws on the ground” and does not enjoy being picked up. However, they are generally polite and sweet-tempered cats that will cuddle up with their owners on their own terms. British Shorthairs are known for their purring, with one cat setting a Guinness World Record for the loudest verified purr in 2011. They get along well with other household pets and children. In addition, this breed has become popular in internet memes, with a photograph of a smiling British Shorthair becoming a cultural touchstone. Wildcats are still present in Scotland and are considered the last indigenous felines in Great Britain.
FAQ
1. What is a British Shorthair?
A British Shorthair is a breed of cat that is known for its round face, stocky body, and plush coat. They are a popular breed due to their sweet and affectionate nature.
2. What is the origin of the British Shorthair?
The British Shorthair originated in England and is one of the oldest cat breeds. They were originally bred to help control the rodent population in homes and on ships.
3. What is the temperament of a British Shorthair?
British Shorthairs are known for their calm and affectionate nature. They enjoy being near their owners and are not typically high-energy cats. They are also known for their independent streak.
4. What colors do British Shorthairs come in?
British Shorthairs come in a variety of colors, including blue, black, white, cream, red, and silver. They may also have tabby or tortoiseshell markings.
5. How do you care for a British Shorthair?
British Shorthairs require regular grooming to keep their plush coats looking their best. They also benefit from a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight.
6. Are British Shorthairs good with children?
Yes, British Shorthairs are known for being great with children. They are patient and gentle with kids, making them a great choice for families.
7. Can British Shorthairs live in apartments?
Yes, British Shorthairs can do well in apartments as long as they have enough space to move around and play. They are not typically high-energy cats and are happy to spend time relaxing indoors.
8. Are British Shorthairs prone to any health problems?
British Shorthairs may be prone to certain health problems, such as heart disease and obesity. However, with proper care and regular vet check-ups, these issues can often be avoided or managed.
9. How long do British Shorthairs typically live?
British Shorthairs have a lifespan of around 12-20 years, depending on their health and lifestyle.
10. Are British Shorthairs hypoallergenic?
No, British Shorthairs are not hypoallergenic. While they may produce less dander than some other breeds, they still have the potential to cause allergies in some people.
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