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 |  Persian |  Exotic Shorthair |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Iran | United States, from Persian and American Shorthair crosses in the 1960s |
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Coat | Long | Short |
| Weight | 3–6.5 kg | 3–6.5 kg |
| Lifespan | 10–17 yrs | 12–16 yrs |
| Energy | 3/10 | 3/10 |
| Affection | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Grooming needs | 10/10 | 4/10 |
| Vocality | 2/10 | 2/10 |
| Good with kids | 8/10 | 8/10 |
| Good with pets | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| Shedding | 7/10 | 6/10 |
| Flat fit | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Editor score | 4.0 / 5 | 4.2 / 5 |
| Running cost | €99 / month | €84 / month |
Persian verdict
A long-coated cat with strong opinions about calm
Get one if
- · Quiet adult households
- · People who enjoy daily grooming rituals
- · Flat living with no climbing needs
Think again if
- · Busy homes with toddlers or boisterous dogs
- · Anyone unwilling to comb daily
- · Tight budgets, grooming and vet costs are high
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