The Exotic Shorthair is a man-made breed resulting from the cross of Persians with American Shorthairs and other shorthaired cats. The Exotic’s body and head-style match that of the Persian, but the breed was separated into its own category in the 1960s. The desired coat is dense, plush and stands away from the body due to the thick undercoat. Because outcrosses are regularly done to Persians, many long-haired kittens occur in Exotic litters. Some associations will register and show these cats as Persians. A bit livelier and more inquisitive than the Persian, Exotics share many of the Persian’s gentler personality features.

Known as the lazy man’s Persian, the Exotic Shorthair has the body type and easygoing nature of the Persian but without the coat length and need for daily grooming. With her thick, dense, plush short hair and round face, the Exotic Shorthair has a soft teddy bear look. This sweet feline is affectionate and loyal. The breed is athletic, fun-loving, yet also quiet and sensitive.