WhoWho developed the Exotic Shorthair?
Developed by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs.
WhatWhat defines the breed?
A 'lazy person's Persian' — the flat face and sweet nature, shorter coat.
WhereWhere did it originate?
Developed in the USA.
WhenWhen did the breed begin?
Created in the 1960s.
WhyWhy was the breed created?
Bred to offer the Persian's charm with easier grooming.
About the Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is often called the 'lazy man's Persian' — all the sweet, round-faced charm of a Persian, but with a short, plush, teddy-bear coat that's far easier to maintain. Developed by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs, the breed captures the Persian's flat face, big eyes, and serene temperament in a lower-maintenance package that has made it enormously popular.
Exotics are calm, gentle, and quietly affectionate, with a slightly more playful and curious streak than their Persian ancestors. They love their people and enjoy being near them, happily lounging on a lap or following you around at an unhurried pace. Their easygoing nature and dense, low-fuss coat make them a wonderful choice for owners who love the Persian look but not the daily grooming marathon.
Breed at a Glance
Coat Colors
The breed appears in a range of colors and patterns. Here are some of the most recognized.
Temperament & Personality
Exotic Shorthairs share the Persian's calm, affectionate nature but bring a touch more playfulness and curiosity. They're gentle, undemanding companions that bond closely with their families, enjoy quiet company, and adapt easily to relaxed households.
- Calm and gentle, with a sweet, easygoing disposition.
- Affectionate and loyal — they love being near their people.
- Slightly more playful and curious than the Persian.
- Quiet and undemanding, adapting well to most homes.
Exercise & Enrichment Needs
Exotics are moderately active — more playful than Persians but still relaxed. Gentle daily play keeps them fit and helps prevent the weight gain the breed is prone to.
- Short interactive play — brief daily sessions match their pace.
- Soft toys & catnip mice — low-key fun they enjoy batting around.
- Low, sturdy perches — they lounge more than they leap.
- Weight monitoring — their relaxed nature makes portion control important.
Grooming & Care
This is the Exotic's big advantage over the Persian: the dense, plush coat needs only occasional brushing, though the flat face still requires daily eye care.
- Brush a couple of times a week — far less than a Persian's daily need.
- Wipe the eyes daily; flat faces are prone to tear staining and overflow.
- Trim nails and check ears as routine care.
- Occasional baths help during seasonal shedding.
Health Considerations
The Exotic shares the Persian's flat-faced (brachycephalic) considerations along with a few inherited conditions worth screening.
- Brachycephalic issues — breathing difficulty, tear overflow, and dental crowding.
- Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) — a DNA test lets breeders screen it out.
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — a concern requiring cardiac screening.
- Heat sensitivity — the flat face reduces tolerance for hot weather.
Is an Exotic Shorthair Right for You?
Exotic Shorthairs reward owners with the Persian's sweet, serene charm and none of the daily coat marathon — ideal for relaxed, gentle homes.
A Exotic Shorthair may be perfect if you…
- Love the Persian look but want easier grooming.
- Want a calm, affectionate, gentle companion.
- Have a relaxed home and can manage flat-face eye care.
Think twice if you…
- Want a highly active, athletic cat.
- Live in a hot climate without climate control.
- Can't commit to daily eye cleaning.
🐾What is the Exotic Shorthair like?
Sweet, calm, and affectionate, the easygoing 'lazy man's Persian' with a gentle nature.
🎾How much exercise do they need?
Low — quiet and placid; enjoys gentle play but loves lounging.
✂️What about grooming & coat care?
Short, dense plush coat needs weekly brushing; wipe facial folds regularly.
❤️Health & longevity
Typically 12–15 years; a brachycephalic breed prone to breathing, eye, and kidney issues.
👪Who are they good with?
Gentle, quiet family cats great with kids and other pets.
The Exotic Shorthair is always welcome here.
Whether your Exotic Shorthair is here for a spa day, a fun-filled daycare visit, or a cozy overnight stay, our team understands exactly what this breed needs to feel safe, happy, and completely at home. We tailor every stay to your pet's unique personality — just like we would for our own.