Side by side
Put a few breeds side by side before you make up your mind.
Pick up to four. The URL updates as you go, so you can send this comparison to whoever you are arguing with.
| Breed |  Exotic Shorthair |  British Shorthair |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | United States, from Persian and American Shorthair crosses in the 1960s | United Kingdom |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Coat | Short | Short |
| Weight | 3–6.5 kg | 4–8 kg |
| Lifespan | 12–16 yrs | 12–17 yrs |
| Energy | 3/10 | 4/10 |
| Affection | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Grooming needs | 4/10 | 4/10 |
| Vocality | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Good with kids | 8/10 | 9/10 |
| Good with pets | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Shedding | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Flat fit | 10/10 | 10/10 |
| Editor score | 4.2 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
| Running cost | €84 / month | €76 / month |
Exotic Shorthair verdict
The Persian temperament, in a coat you can actually manage, with the face still to consider.
Get one if
- · You want a calm, quiet, affectionate cat
- · You live in a flat or on one level
- · You will wipe the eyes daily and brush twice a week
Think again if
- · You want an athletic or highly playful cat
- · You would rather not do daily face care
- · You are set on the flattest possible face
British Shorthair verdict
Plush, unbothered, quietly devoted
Get one if
- · First-time cat owners
- · Flats and quiet households
- · People out at work during the day
Think again if
- · Owners who want to carry and cuddle a cat
- · Homes wanting a high-energy playmate
- · Anyone unwilling to manage portions carefully