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Exotic Shorthair
Exotic Shorthair
Origin
United States
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
15º-30ºC
Life Expectancy
10-15 years
Cost of buying
₹ 20,000 - ₹ 50,000
Top 5 Traits
Playful
Laid-back
Affectionate
Friendly
Curious
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 3,200 - ₹ 4,200
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 10 Jun 2025
Introduction to the Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is commonly called the “lazy man’s Persian” because it lives up to that name. They have the sweet teddy bear look of Persians, but their short, plush coat is much simpler to take care of.
In the 1950s, Persians were crossed with American Shorthairs to create the breed, which became popular right away for its sweet nature and cute appearance.
In 1967, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) made the Exotic Shorthair a championship breed, and since then, many people who love cats have chosen this breed for its easy care and charm.
How Long Do Exotic Shorthairs Live?
Exotic Shorthairs usually live for 10 to 15 years if they are cared for and taken to the vet regularly.
Exotic Shorthair Temperament and Personality
They are known to be sweet, gentle, and relaxed. They tend to relax in sunny spots instead of climbing on cabinets. Even though they seem calm, they like to play with feather toys or treat puzzles for a short time.
Key Personality Traits:
- Affectionate: Shares close ties with family members
- Quiet: Not very loud when they meow
- Playful: Offers short and enjoyable activities.
- Loyal: Moves with its owner from one room to another
- Tolerant: Is comfortable with children and other pets
Their calm nature makes them suitable for families, older people, and people living in apartments.
Exotic Shorthair Exercise Needs
They’re not super active, but daily short play sessions help prevent weight gain.
- Wand toys and feather teasers
- Puzzle feeders to stimulate the mind
- Low cat trees or climbing platforms
- Short bursts of fetch or chase
Aim for 15–20 minutes of gentle play per day.
Characteristics
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Shedding amount
Negligible
Frequent
Compatibility with other cats
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Prey Drive
Low
High
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Expenses
Exotic Shorthair Cat Price
Cost of buying
₹ 20,000 - ₹ 50,000
Depending on the breeder, colour, and show quality, expect the price to be anywhere around ₹80,000 – ₹2,00,000 in India.
Similar Breeds to the Exotic Shorthair
Shop or Adopt an Exotic Shorthair: Make the Right Choice!
Responsible shopping will make sure that ethical breeding is taking place, while adopting an Exotic Shorthair will give a loving home to a cat that needs it. Pick based on your ability to keep up with their gentle temperament, grooming needs, and lifespan.
Best Practices for Shopping or Adopting an Exotic Shorthair
- Select a good breeder or adoption centre.
- Get health screenings for heart disease and dental problems.
- Observe temperament and socialization levels.
- Vaccination, deworming and medical history should be checked.
- Offer a quiet, reasonably comfortable indoor environment.
- Prevent obesity by maintaining a balanced diet.
- They need to be groomed regularly to manage their dense coat.
- Always ensure you keep routine vet visits as a commitment to lifelong care.
Nutrition Care for the Exotic Shorthair
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,000
Calories per day
Kittens: 250 kcal
Adults: 200 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Protein
Fats
Carbohydrates
Vitamins
Minerals
Fiber
List of foods
Dry kibble
Wet canned food
Chicken (cooked or raw)
Salmon
Tuna
Carrots (cooked)
Pumpkin
Cottage cheese
- They require high quality protein for the maintenance of muscle.
- Healthy fats support energy levels and a shiny coat.
- Immunity and joint health are strengthened with the help of essential nutrients.
- Taurine is important for heart and vision health.
- Wet food helps in hydration and urinary tract health.
- It is best to avoid low quality foods to prevent obesity and digestion problems.
- A balanced diet of wet food, lean meats and supplements is vital for overall well being.
Feeding Guidelines for Exotic Shorthairs
Kittens (2–12 Months): 3–4 small meals a day. Feed your kitten foods that are rich in protein and fat. Soft materials are more suitable for their flat faces.
Adults (1–7 Years): Give your pet two meals each day. Choose a diet that has about 35–40% protein and 15–20% fat. Use portion control to prevent obesity.
Seniors (8+ Years): Give your senior cat food that is low in phosphorus and has ingredients to support joints. It is easier for the body to handle several small meals throughout the day.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Foods for Exotic Shorthairs
- Royal Canin Persian/Exotic Shorthair formulas. They are created to meet the needs of flat-faced pets, providing the right shape and coat care.
- Hill’s Science Diet Urinary Hairball Control. Helps cats avoid urinary problems and reduces the number of hairballs they have.
- Wellness CORE Grain-Free Wet Food. Protein and moisture are high in this food to help hydrate and build muscle.
- Purina Pro Plan Urinary Tract Health. Made to keep the urine at a healthy pH and stop crystals from forming.
- Ensure real animal protein is the first ingredient. This helps the body get the necessary amino acids for growth and energy.
Foods to Avoid for Exotic Shorthairs
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Onions and Garlic
Caffeine
Chocolate
Alcohol
Raw Eggs
Dairy (in some cases)
Grapes and Raisins
- High-mineral diets – May cause the development of kidney stones. Pick foods that have controlled amounts of phosphorus and magnesium.
- Low-quality dry kibble – May cause weight gain. Make sure to pick brands that are recommended by vets and have real meat as their main ingredient.
- Artificial additives – May cause an allergic reaction or stomach problems. Foods that are natural and free from preservatives are better for their health.
- Dairy products – They frequently result in stomach trouble. Milk and cheese are not suitable for most cats because they are lactose intolerant.
- Table scraps or human snacks – Contains a lot of fat and salt. They can upset your cat’s normal diet and can cause health problems.
- Choose cat food that has been made for flat-faced breeds. Diets designed for brachycephalic cats help their digestion and dental health.
Healthcare for Exotic Shorthairs
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 500 - ₹ 700
Common Health Issues
Dental Problems
Obesity
Kidney Disease
Hyperthyroidism
Fleas and Ticks
Gastrointestinal Issues
Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)
Skin & coat disorders
Activities
Play with Toys
Exploring
Climbing
Grooming
Napping
Energy Level
Medium
Exercise routine
30 - 60 minutes
Recognising Stress
Hiding
Changes in litter box behavior
Increased vocalization
Aggression
Overgrooming
Compulsive behaviors (e.g., excessive grooming, licking, or chewing)
Common Health Problems of Exotic Shorthair
- Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): Genetic, use a DNA test for screening. Spotting kidney problems early allows for better management using diet and routine visits.
- Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome: Leads to noisy breathing and makes the animal intolerant to heat. Let them rest and keep them cool when the weather is hot.
- Eye issues: Easily suffer from tearing and infections. Regularly cleaning the area around the eyes helps avoid staining and irritation.
- Calcium Oxalate Stones: Watch for any discomfort in the urinary system. A diet that is easy on the urinary tract and drinking plenty of water can stop stones from forming.
- Obesity: Because they do not move around much. Eating the right amounts and playing regularly help keep your pet healthy.
General Healthcare Tips for Exotic Shorthair
- Going to the vet twice a year to check on the kidneys and heart. Regular checkups make it possible to identify diseases early and treat them quickly.
- Air-conditioning should be used during the hot summer months. Because their faces are flat, they are more likely to overheat and have breathing problems.
- Make sure your pet stays hydrated by using pet fountains or giving wet food. Staying hydrated benefits the health of their kidneys and urinary tract.
- Brushing your pet’s teeth or using dental treats is good for their mouth. It stops plaque from accumulating and keeps their gums healthy.
Regular weight checks to prevent joint stress. Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of obesity-related problems.
Vaccination details
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
8 Weeks
Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper), Feline Calicivirus, Feline Herpesvirus-1 (Rhinotracheitis)
12 Weeks
Panleukopenia (Feline Distemper), Feline Calicivirus, Feline Herpesvirus-1 (Rhinotracheitis)
16 Weeks
Rabies
Anually
Rabies
Exotic Shorthair Grooming Routine
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,500
Shedding Level
Low Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Worming (if needed)
Nail Trimming
Anal Gland Expression
Fur trimming
Grooming (for some breeds)
Ear cleaning
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Odourless
Low Shedding
Prevents Bad Breath
Prevents infections
Even though they’re short-haired, grooming helps them stay healthy and neat.
- Brushing (once a week): Use a soft brush to remove loose hair
- Facial fold cleaning: Wipe gently to avoid infections
- Nail trimming: Every 2–3 weeks
- Ear cleaning: Once a month with a vet-approved cleaner
- Bathing: Only when necessary
During spring/fall shedding seasons, brush more often to manage hair loss.
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Exotic Shorthairs called “lazy man’s Persian”?
Because they offer all the beauty of a Persian without the high-maintenance grooming routine.
Do they have breathing issues?
Yes. Their flat face can cause breathing difficulties, especially in hot or humid weather.
Are Exotic Shorthairs affectionate?
Extremely. They love cuddling, being nearby, and are loyal but not overly demanding.
How often should I groom them?
Once a week is usually enough, but increase during shedding seasons.
