Domestic Shorthair
The ordinary British moggy — the most common cat in the UK and, thanks to a wide gene pool, generally among the healthiest. Personality varies from cat to cat.
Key facts
Lifespan
12–20 years
Weight
3.5–6 kg
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Moderate
First-time owners
Suitable
About the Domestic Shorthair
Domestic Shorthairs are cats of mixed ancestry rather than a breed, which means no breed standard and no predictable type — but also far fewer inherited conditions than most pedigrees. Rescue centres across the UK are full of them, already vaccinated, neutered, microchipped and temperament-assessed. Meeting the individual tells you far more than any breed description.
Living with a Domestic Shorthair
Adaptable to almost any home.
- Good with children— depends on the individual
- Good with other pets— depends on the individual
- 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.
- Wide gene pool means fewer inherited conditions
- Standard feline risks: dental disease, obesity, kidney disease with age
Ask the breeder for
- Vaccination, neutering and microchipping records
Buying a Domestic Shorthair
Cats Protection and local rescues rehome thousands of shorthairs every year, usually neutered, vaccinated and microchipped for a fee well below a pedigree kitten. Remember cats in England must be microchipped by 20 weeks.
Read the full safe-buying guideDomestic Shorthairs for sale
No Domestic Shorthair adverts are live right now. New adverts are posted daily — or set your sights a little wider.
All cats for saleDomestic Shorthair FAQs
How long do Domestic Shorthairs live?
A Domestic Shorthair typically lives 12–20 years.
Are Domestic Shorthairs good for first-time owners?
Yes — Domestic Shorthairs are generally suitable for sensible first-time owners who will train and exercise them consistently.
What health tests should a Domestic Shorthair breeder have done?
Vaccination, neutering and microchipping 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.