​This ancient breed is believed to date back to the first century A.D. when the Romans invaded Britain, they brought cats with them. These early domesticated cats were tasked with the important job of keeping Roman camps clear of mice and other pests. ​

British Shorthairs retain the appearance of their ancestors, which were large and robust, with dense, short coats that provided protection from the elements.

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Cat fancier and artist Harrison Weir is credited with helping to develop the breed as we know it today. During the 19th century, he – and perhaps other breeders – began selecting for the blue-grey variant that ultimately became the British Blue. The newly standardized British Shorthair took pride of place at the first cat show in history, which was held at the Crystal Palace in London in 1871.

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The British Shorthair cat nearly became extinct during the first world war and along with many other breeds, was nearly wiped out again by the end of the second world war. In an effort to save Britain's favourite cat, British Shorthair breeders introduced Persians to their bloodlines, ultimately creating British Longhair cats. Shorthaired offspring were also bred with Russian Blue cats and French Chartreux cats in an effort to emphasize the blue-grey colouring. The British Blue was recognized by the American Cat Association in 1967. By 1980, the British Shorthair had gained recognition from The International Cat Association and the Cat Fanciers Association. All cat associations now recognise the breed.

 

These days, the British Shorthair cat is available in nearly every colour and pattern imaginable. Blue remains the most prevalent - and the most popular - British Shorthair cat colour.

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Known for their chubby face and easy-going demeanour, British Shorthair’s warm and lovable personality combined with their independent nature makes them a top choice for many families. 

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​Male and female British Shorthair cats differ a bit in personality. The happy-go-lucky males welcome attention from everyone, while the more serious females are more than happy with their own company, but will come for a fuss "on their terms"..

 

While not very active cats, they do have their occasional “mad” moments where they like to act like kittens. They definitely look before they leap and do not engage in high-flying acrobatics. They are tolerant with children and dogs, but do not like to be carried around. Exerting their independence, they are content with their own company and have no problem quietly amusing themselves in your absence and waiting patiently for your return.

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​​In an effort to save Britain's favourite cat, British Shorthair breeders introduced Persians to their bloodlines, ultimately creating British Longhair cats.

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The British Longhair has added length to the dense coat, so it stands out from the body emphasizing the cat's imposing lines. In most colours, they have large, round eyes ranging from deep gold through copper. In pointed cats the eyes are blue, while deep green eyes develop in the silvers. 

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The British Longhair cuts an imposing figure as the full coat swirls around the rounded, muscular body. Their round heads have short noses, chubby cheeks and prominent, rounded whisker pads creating an enigmatic smiling look to the face. 

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The British Longhair coat takes more work but a daily combing prevents any tangles. It is a good idea to bathe your British Longhair regularly to keep the coat in peak condition. If you plan to bathe your cat, start when the kitten is young and maintain a regular routine so the cat learns to enjoy this extra special time with you.

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These cats love food and with their sedentary ways can quickly gain weight so it is important to keep a careful eye on their portions to make sure they do not get fat. They are a heavy, solid cat ranging from 9 to 18 pounds but that weight should come from their massive muscular bodies, not from an excess of food. Encouraging them to play burns calories off while toning muscles.