British Shorthair Kittens

The British Shorthair is a medium to large breed with a distinctly cobby, stocky, and powerfully built frame. Males typically weigh 5–8 kg, females 4–6 kg. Their broad chest, short strong legs, and rounded head give them a solid, substantial presence that has earned them the affectionate nickname "teddy bear cat" — a name that perfectly captures both their appearance and their wonderfully gentle nature.

The British Shorthair coat is famously dense, plush, and crisp to the touch — often described as a luxurious velvet pile. Recognised colours span an extraordinary range: blue (the iconic classic), black, white, cream, chocolate, lilac, cinnamon, and fawn, as well as golden, silver, tabby, bicolor, and colorpoint (pointed) varieties. Blue remains the most celebrated and sought-after colour worldwide.

British Shorthairs have large, round eyes set wide apart — one of their most defining and endearing features. Eye colour varies by coat: deep copper or gold is classic in solid colours; blue or odd-eyes in white cats; vivid green in silver and golden varieties; and blue in pointed (colorpoint) individuals. Set within their broad, sculptural head, those wide round eyes give every British Shorthair its unmistakable warm, open expression.

The British Shorthair's dense plush coat is surprisingly manageable for its impressive appearance. A thorough brush once or twice a week is all that is typically required to keep it looking pristine and to reduce seasonal shedding. No professional grooming is usually necessary, though routine ear cleaning, nail trims, and dental care remain important parts of their overall health routine.

The British Shorthair is a notably quiet breed. They are not demanding or vocal — preferring to communicate through presence, a steady gaze, and the occasional soft, melodic chirp rather than persistent meowing. They make an ideal companion for those who appreciate a dignified, peaceable household companion and a genuinely tranquil home environment.

British Shorthairs can be predisposed to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), the most common heart condition in cats, and Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD). Our breeding cats are rigorously screened by certified specialists for both conditions, and all kittens come with a written genetic health guarantee and full veterinary documentation for complete peace of mind.

With proper care, British Shorthairs typically live between 12–17 years — one of the longer lifespans among domestic cat breeds. Their longevity is best supported by regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet with careful portion control to avoid obesity, and a calm, enriched indoor environment that suits their steady-natured temperament perfectly.

No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic. The British Shorthair's short, dense coat does shed, particularly during seasonal changes, and like all cats they produce the Fel d 1 protein that triggers most human allergies. We always recommend a visit before committing if allergies are a concern.

British Shorthairs are affectionate in a dignified, self-possessed way. They enjoy being close to their owners and will often settle nearby or follow you quietly from room to room, but they typically prefer to sit beside you rather than on your lap. They are deeply loyal and bonded companions who show love through calm, consistent presence rather than actively seeking contact — the ideal companion for those who appreciate quiet devotion over constant attention-seeking.

A balanced, high-quality diet is important for the British Shorthair — a breed that can be prone to weight gain if overfed. A combination of premium wet food and measured dry kibble works well for most individuals, supporting healthy weight, coat condition, and urinary health. We send each kitten home with a detailed feeding guide and the food they are already accustomed to, ensuring a smooth and stress-free transition.