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The Scratching Post
Exotic Shorthair 
The Exotic Shorthairs have nearly the same body as the Persian, but with a thick, dense short coat. This breed has a flat face with a short, plush, teddy-bear look. The eyes are large, round and set far apart. The muzzle is not overly pronounced but has broad and powerful jaws. They have very small voices and usually squeak. The small ears are tilted forward, with round tips. The body sits low on the legs that are short, strong and thick. This breed has large and round paws with toes that are carried close. The tail is short but is in proportion to the body length. Exotics are known as "The Lazy Man?s Persian." They come in all colors of the cat rainbow.
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Temperament
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Exotic shorthairs are friendly, human oriented and gentle. They are lively, outgoing and more athletic and sociable than the Persian. This quiet and sensitive breed enjoys pampering. They are playful without being mischievous. Some can learn to fetch. Exotics like to follow their favorite human around like small, plush lapdogs. They long to be involved in every aspect of their people?s lives. This breed is excellent for families, singles and the elderly.
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Weight
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9-12 lbs.
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Health Problems
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Health issues include sinus and breathing problems caused by the shortened face, snub nose, abridged sinus cavities, and constantly running eyes due to short tear ducts. Some Persian lines are known to have Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), which can cause renal failure, so getting a written health guarantee from your Exotic breeder is a wise precaution.
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Living Conditions
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Exotics love interactive play and get plenty of exercise indoors.
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Exercise
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Your Exotic Shorthair cat will enjoy regular play sessions. You should provide them with the physical exercise and mental stimulation they need, which will also help to strengthen the bond you two share. Make sure you set aside time to play with your Exotic Shorthair cat as they do need exercise.
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Life Expectancy
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12-14 years
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Grooming
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The Exotic Shorthair?s coat is much easier to groom than the Persian. Grooming your cat about once a week benefits its health by reducing hairballs as well as cutting down on the hair they shed on clothing and furniture. Run a damp hand down their coat to remove loose hairs.
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Origin
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The Exotic was bred in the US in the 1960s by crossing a Persian longhair with an American Shorthair. Crosses were also made with the Russian blue and the Burmese. In Australia, the breed is being developed by crossing Persians with British rather than American Shorthairs. They were recognized by the CFA in 1966.
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