British Shorthair
The UK's most popular pedigree cat — calm, undemanding and famously teddy-bear-like. Placid enough for flats and families, but prone to obesity and an inherited heart condition.
Key facts
Lifespan
12–17 years
Weight
4–8 kg
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
Moderate
First-time owners
Suitable
About the British Shorthair
Descended from ordinary British working cats and refined into a dense-coated, round-faced breed, the British Shorthair is easy-going and independent. They are not lap cats as a rule: affectionate but happier sitting beside you than on you. The plush coat needs weekly brushing, more during moults, and their laid-back nature means weight gain is a constant risk.
Living with a British Shorthair
Suits indoor life and flats well; encourage play to prevent weight gain.
- Good with children
- Good with other pets
- Suitable for first-time owners
Health
Conditions this breed is commonly predisposed to. This is general information, not veterinary advice — speak to a vet about any specific animal.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in some lines
- Obesity
- Haemophilia B in some lines
Ask the breeder for
- DNA test for HCM and PKD in breeding cats
- Cardiac scanning of breeding stock
- GCCF registration and vaccination records
British Shorthairs for sale
No British Shorthair adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All cats for saleBritish Shorthair FAQs
How long do British Shorthairs live?
A British Shorthair typically lives 12–17 years.
Are British Shorthairs good for first-time owners?
Yes — British Shorthairs are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a British Shorthair breeder have done?
DNA test for HCM and PKD in breeding cats. Cardiac scanning of breeding stock. GCCF registration and vaccination records.
Breed information is general guidance compiled by the PetHome team. Every animal is an individual — meet it, and its mother, before you commit. This is not veterinary advice.