All You Need To Know
Owning a British Shorthair in Malaysia
Chonky, sturdy, squishy and thiccc, the British Shorthair is a popular cat breed adored by cat lovers globally. Their cuddleable features with their calm (or lazy) demeanour makes them appealing as an ideal family cat.
At Petchef, we believe that it is the parent’s responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids. Read on to know more about the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why the British Shorthair cat may be the cat for you.
Breed overview
Personality | Calm, affectionate and independent |
Weight | 3.2 to 7.7 kg (7 to 17 pounds) |
Size | Medium to large, sturdy and muscular |
Coat length | Dense and short |
Coat color | White, black, blue, red (ginger), cream, lilac, chocolate, fawn |
Coat patterns | Solid, tabby, bi-colour, tortoiseshell, colorpoint, smoke, shaded and chinchilla |
Eye color | Gold (most common), copper, green, blue, hazel |
Lifespan | 12 to 20 years |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Origin | United Kingdom |
Personality & Characteristics
British Shorthairs are known for their calm, easygoing nature. They are affectionate but not overly clingy, making them great companions for people with a busy lifestyle. They are relatively independent and don’t mind being left alone for a few hours, which is ideal if you’re out for work during the day. Plus, they’re generally good with children and other pets, making them suitable for family environments.
Affection level | Medium |
Friendliness | Medium |
Kid-Friendly | High |
Pet-Friendly | High |
Exercise needs | Low |
Playfullness | Medium |
Energy level | Low |
Trainability | Medium |
Intelligence | Medium |
Tendency to Vocalize | Low |
History & Origin
The British Shorthair, originating in the UK, evolved from domestic cats brought by Romans. Developed through selective breeding in the 19th century, it’s now known for its round face and dense coat.
Today, the British Shorthair is one of the most popular and well-loved cat breeds, known for its charming appearance and calm temperament.
Grooming & Care
British Shorthairs have relatively low grooming needs compared to some other breeds, but regular care is essential for their health and well-being. Here are some grooming and care tips:
Common Health Issues
British Shorthairs are generally healthy, but like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues, including:
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help manage these health issues and ensure a British Shorthair’s overall well-being.
Diet and Nutrition
British Shorthair cats require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:
Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, beef, buffalo) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.
PS: Here are the answers to all the questions on Petchef’s meals you might possibly have. 😉
Lifestyle and Living
Living with British Shorthairs is relatively easy because they are highly adaptable cats that can easily make themselves at home. Here are some tips for your cat to live their best life:
Adopt or Buy British Shorthair
In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or purchasing a British Shorthair kitten:
- Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While British Shorthairs might not be as common in shelters as domestic shorthairs, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
- Breeders: Look for reputable British Shorthair breeders in Malaysia. Ensure they are registered with a recognized cat breeding association, follow ethical breeding practices and have done the necessary tests to screen for genetics-related health concerns. You can find breeders through online directories, cat shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians. Some Malaysian British Shorthair breeders are Syinad British Shorthair, Cavieryn Cattery, British Shorthair Cattery Malaysia, Cosmicgold CATS, and Norhana British Shorthair Cat’s Cottage.
- Online Platforms: Websites and online forums dedicated to pets often have listings for British Shorthair kittens or cats available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about British Shorthairs available for adoption or sale. For example, Malaya British Short Hair, Jual beli kucing british shorthair kl semenanjung, British Short Hair For you Malaysia and MEOW BSH MALAYSIA.
Use Diligence
When adopting or purchasing a British Shorthair, always prioritise the health and well-being of the cat. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the cat in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.
Conclusion
Owning a British Shorthair provides a serene and affectionate companion with a distinctive plush coat and round face. Their low-maintenance grooming, friendly temperament, and adaptability to various living situations make them excellent for families, singles, and those with a busy lifestyle. Their calm nature ensures a loving and pleasant presence.
| Pros of British Shorthair Cats | Cons of British Shorthair Cats |
|---|---|
Calm and affectionate temperamen | Prone to obesity |
Pet and child-friendly | Heat sensitivity in the Malaysian weather |
Healthy breed | Potential for respiratory issues |
FAQs
Most common questions about British Shorthair asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.
How much is a British Shorthair cat in Malaysia?
Prices can range from RM 3,000 to RM 7,000 or more depending on factors such as the cat’s lineage, age, and whether it is a show-quality or pet-quality cat.
Are British Shorthair cats good with kids?
Their patient and tolerant nature makes them well-suited for families with children, dogs and cats.
What makes British Shorthair cats unique?
British Shorthairs are special for their plush coat, round face, and calm, affectionate yet independent nature, making them unique companions.
Are British Shorthair cats high maintenance?
British Shorthairs are typically easy to groom, easygoing and adaptable, making them relatively low-maintenance overall.
Article sources:
- About British Shorthair health issues – catster.com
