British Shorthair Breed Facts and Information

You’ll rarely see a British Shorthair jumping through the air and they can be on the clumsy side, so the breed gravitates towards a couch potato lifestyle. Generally, British Shorthairs are affectionate, loving, calm and easygoing. They are very intelligent and train easily, and some will even learn to fetch their toys by name, says Cynthia Byrd, a Cat Fanciers’ Association certified British Shorthair breeder. Their personalities make them a great match for homes with other pets or calm children.

While the British Shorthair is affectionate and friendly, they aren’t lap cats, per se, and they don’t love to be held or carried. Instead, provide your cat the attention she craves by letting her curl up next to you on the couch for some scratches. Female British Shorthairs tend to be quite intelligent and more serious, although still warm, while males are more ostentatious in their affection. “British Shorthairs find it their duty to supervise the home,” says Byrd. “You will find them always nearby, appearing to supervise, but never to judge.”