Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed – All Information, Facts, Care and Price
It is very possible that an exotic shorthair cat might be the perfect fit for you if you have always wanted a Persian cat but were worried about the time it would take you to take care of their long coats. In addition to having the looks and personality of a Persian, this breed also has a very easy-to-care-for, short, dense coat that makes them a breeze to maintain. To maintain your exotic shorthair’s fur in top condition, all she needs is a weekly brushing to keep her coat in tip top shape. There is also a wide variety of colored and patterned exotic shorthair cats available to choose from, just like Persian cats.
It is considered to be a cross between the Persian and the American Shorthair cat and is an adorable, personable cat that makes a wonderful pet. These cats are friendly toward newcomers and affectionate toward family members, and they love nothing more than to spend time with the people who love them so much, as they enjoy the attention they receive from their human friends. Their favorite thing to do is cuddle. In fact, they love to cuddle so much that it is very common for them to climb under the covers with the person they love the most.
Known as exotic shorthair cats, these cats following their family members around the house is considered a hallmark of their behavior. The kids may bring a favorite toy into the room where you are sitting when they are playing with their toys in another room and play with it next to you if you are sitting in one room and their toys are in another.
There is no denying that Exotic Shorthair cats love playtime, but generally speaking, they play in a softer, slower manner than the average cat, which makes them particularly sociable. I think this might be an ideal breed of cat for someone who lives in a small apartment or who does not have room for a huge cat tree because they do not have much room!
The need-to-know
- Benefits from an experienced owner
- Quiet and sedate cat
- Highly active and inquisitive cat
- Sociable and dependent cat
- Slightly talkative cat
- Average build cat breed
- Requires grooming every day
- Indoor cat
- Great family cat
- Can be regularly left for a few hours
- Great for a relaxed home
Exotic Shorthair Cat Breed
ORIGIN | United States |
HEIGHT | 10 - 12 inches |
WEIGHT | 8 - 12 pounds |
LENGTH | Up to 15 inches |
LIFE SPAN | 8 - 15 years |
GOOD WITH | children, seniors, cats, families |
TEMPERAMENT | sociable, affectionate |
INTELLIGENCE | medium |
SHEDDING AMOUNT | infrequent |
PLAYFULNESS | medium |
HYPOALLERGENIC | no |
EYE COLOR | Gold, green, and blue |
ACTIVITY LEVEL | calm |
VOCALNESS | quiet |
COAT LENGTH | short |
COLORS | chocolate / brown / sable, cinnamon, lavender / silver, fawn, blue / gray, black / ebony, cream / beige / tan, lilac, white, red / orange |
PATTERNS | bi-color, solid, tabby, calico / tri-color, color point |
PERSONALITY | Sociable, interactive, playful, affectionate |
OTHER TRAITS | requires lots of grooming, friendly toward humans, friendly toward other pets, low prey drive, strong loyalty tendencies, good lap cat, tolerates being picked up |
PRICE | Average $1200 - $2200 USD |
Other Quick Facts
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Generally speaking, Exotic and Persian cats are both loving lap cats with a vivacious personality that differs from that of the Persian.
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There are many beautiful colors and patterns to choose from on the Exotic as well as many different colors and patterns on the Persian, such as tabby, tortoiseshell, black and white, and chinchilla silver. It has the appearance of a Persian, but with a short, plush coat.
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In order to describe this breed properly, we must use the word round. A round eye, a round head, and a round body are all characteristics of exotic animals.
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It is possible for exotics to live as long as 15 years of age or even longer.
Personality
Compared to their long coated Persian cousins, Exotic Shorthairs can be a little more active, playful and sedentary than your average puss, or perhaps even more active than the leaner, more athletic cat breeds. However, this is still much more relaxed a cat than the typical puss. Exotic Shorthairs enjoy a peaceful home environment, and are not scared of spending some time on their own when they need a moment to themselves. They are friendly and loving to those they know well, but a little standoffish and selective with strangers. Exotic Shorthair cats do not need to be busy, demanding or able to solve problems so long as they are fed regularly and affection is given to them when they ask.
As much as Persian cats and their relatives have a relaxed and mellow disposition, Exotic cats also have a playful side to them and enjoy a game of catching a catnip mouse between bouts of catching a few ZZZs. Because of the influence of American Shorthairs on Exotics, it is reported that the animals are somewhat more lively than Persians. As much as possible, the Exotic personality has been likened to the Persian in terms of its laid-back nature, loyality, sweetness, and affection – if not the same. When they are around their favorite humans, they are very interested in what they are up to, and they will follow them from room to room in order to understand what they are up to. Besides this, they enjoy cuddling with their owners, giving them hugs and kisses when they are warm. When they are cold, they prefer to lounge on cool kitchen linoleum or cold fireplace bricks instead of their thick coat. Because their Exotics have a short coat, their guardians are able to spend more time playing with them as opposed to grooming them due to the short coat.
Appearance
Exotic shorthair cats have a medium-sized body and a beautiful round head, eyes, and tail, and have a beautiful round-shaped body. As a rule of thumb, they weigh between 10 and 12 pounds on average. Compared to their long-haired cousins, exotic shorthairs are quiet, curious dogs that are slightly more active than their long-haired counterparts.
Owning one of these cats will not require you to turn your living room into a kitty hair salon so you do not have to worry about it. Even though exotic shorthairs have a lot in common with Persian cats, they are noted for their plush, dense coats that make them stand out from the crowd. Although they share the same flat faces and round heads as the Persian people, they have different features.
Among the many different colors and patterns that exotic shorthairs can be found in, there are white, blue, black, red, and lilac, among others. According to the color of the animal’s coat, their eyes could be blue, blue-green, or copper in color. Similarly to Persians, exotic shorthair cats have a short, solid appearance with large paws as well as short, thick tails, and have a solid appearance.
Temperament
It’s a real pleasure to live with an exotic shorthair as a pet. As a pet, these warm, loving felines make great companions that are easy to please and are fun to be around.
A Persian and Japanese shorthair has a personality that is similar to that of the American shorthair, said Chyrle Bonk, DVM at Pet Keen. “These dogs are playful, but they will not run themselves ragged too much. They are affectionate, loyal to their owners and people, and they will be involved in everything their owners do. They are also laid-back and will be able to handle other dogs and children, but they will also need time with just their owners.”
While Persians are famous for being couch potatoes, exotic shorthairs are energetic and enjoy using their energy to chase the ball around the house. Once they’re done with their games, they’re equally happy to join you for a movie night on the couch. In general, exotic shorthair cats are quiet and don’t use loud voices often (for example when it’s time for dinner), but do do so when it’s necessary.
When exotic shorthairs have been properly socialized and trained at an early age, they are able to share their space with other cats or dogs without any problems. They are a loyal breed of dog and may devote all of their attention to their families, but if a stranger stops by, she may turn up her nose in disgust. There is something about the exotic shorthair that makes it ideal for pets in families where there are older children who know how to interact with pets and seniors, as well as families with older kids.
Living Needs
There will always be a home for exotic shorthair cats wherever you live. The reason for this is that they are not too concerned about the square footage of their homes, since their primary focus is on their owners. This is a breed of cat that is low-maintenance and does not need a lot of space. They are very adaptable and are equally happy in an apartment as they are in a sprawling house. When you travel a lot with an exotic shorthair cat, you will need to provide them with interactive toys and even a kitty playmate to keep them happy so you will not have to feel guilty about leaving them alone.
A cat tree is a fantastic way to keep exotic shorthair cats stimulated, particularly since they are a breed that is moderately active. In addition, cats like toys, so be sure to provide a variety so your kitty will never get bored, perhaps rotating out the toys every few weeks so he does not get bored. The exotic shorthair cat will enjoy a padded window seat in your home where he or she can observe the outside world and chat with the birds as well, just as most cats will enjoy one of these seats in their own homes. As well as providing them with a bed of their own, you can also offer them a cat carrier, but because they are such devoted cats, it is more likely that they will end up sleeping with you rather than with others.
Physical Attributes
Body
Cobby type, with a well-rounded midsection, a level back, well-rounded shoulders, and a well-developed chest. They have a well-defined chest and deep chest, with a broad and deep chest, as well as strong shoulders and rump. In addition, there are no signs of obesity, but there is good muscle tone. There is a large or medium size available. As opposed to size, quality should be the determining factor when making a decision.
Head
The skull is huge and round, with a great deal of breadth to it. There is a round face with round bones under the skin. It is well set on a short, thick neck, with a good amount of thickness. Across the width between the ears, as well as from where the forehead begins at the top of the break to the back of the head, the skull structure should be smooth to the touch and not excessively exaggerated from where the forehead begins at the top of the break. Observing the face from a profile perspective, it becomes evident that the eyes are prominent and that the forehead, nose, and chin are all vertically aligned with each other. The nose is short, snubbed, and broad, with a “break” centered between the eyes between both sides of the nose. I have a full cheek. A nice smooth muzzle that does not overpower the cheeks, and is not overly pronounced. An example of a healthy and well-developed chin that reflects a proper bite is full, well-developed, and firmly rounded.
Ears
It is small, round at the tip, has a forward tilt, and does not have a flat bottom. The earpieces are spaced far apart, and low on the head, allowing them to fit into (without distorting) the rounded contours of the head easily.
Eyes
There is an abundance of roundness, fullness, and largeness. Located at a level distance from each other, they give the face a sweet expression. Colorful; eye color is determined by the color of a coat.
Legs & Paws
Short, thick, and strong legs with a good range of motion. Straighten the forelegs. If you look at the hind legs from the back, they are straight. I found the paws to be large, firm, and round. Each toe carried close to the other.
Tail
There is a direct correlation between my body’s length and the fact that I am a short person. The angle from the back to the front is lower when there is no curve in it and there are no waves carried in the direction of the back.
Color
Patterns and colors of all kinds, including the pointed patterns, are included in this collection.
Coat: Long Hair
Despite its length and thickness, it stands far away from the body. This product has a fine texture, a glossy finish, and is full of life. It is long throughout the whole body, including the shoulders. Between the front legs, the ruff is immense and continues into a deep frill between the arms. There are long tufts on the ear and toes. There is a lot of bristle on the brush.
Coat: Short Hair
A soft, plush, soft material that is dense, plush, and bursting with life. A rich, thick undercoat is what makes this dog stand out from the rest of the pack. The length of the hair is medium. As long as the undercoat is properly cared for, an acceptable length can be achieved.
Your Exotic Shorthair’s Health
Taking good care of your cat is very important to you since you love her so much, and we know that you feel that way about her. It is because of this reason that we have compiled a list of some of the health concerns that we will discuss with you over the course of its life. In order to help you tailor an individual preventive health plan for your pet, we need to understand the common health concerns that Exotic Shorthairs suffer from, which in turn can help us prevent some predictable health risks.
In fact, there are a great deal of diseases and health conditions that are genetic in nature, meaning that they are related to your pet’s breed. There is a consensus among feline genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions we will describe here are a significant part of the breed whose incidence or impact is strong, and that these conditions possess a significant rate of incidence within the breed in particular. Your cat may be at a greater risk of developing these problems than other cats, but this does not necessarily mean she will develop them. Described below is a list of the ten most common issues associated with Exotic Shorthairs so that you can get an idea of what may come up in her future. If you notice any unusual signs or symptoms, we recommend that you check with us immediately, as we are not able to cover every possibility here.
As well as providing general information on feline health and wellness, this guide also discusses the genetic predispositions of Exotic Shorthair cats. With the information here, your pet’s healthcare team and you can work together to plan for your pet’s unique medical needs, so that your pet gets the best possible care. Our last section of the article contains a description of what you can do at home to make sure your Exotic Shorthair stays in good health and looks great at all times. The information we havae provided here will hopefully assist you in knowing what to look for, and we all will feel better knowing that we are doing our utmost to keep your pet safe.
General Health Information For Your Exotic Shorthair
Weight Management
Among cats, obesity is a major cause of illness and death, which is attributed to a surprisingly high number of illnesses and deaths as a result of obesity.
In the last few decades, the dangers of excess weight on pets have become more widely known and understood than they were a few decades ago, but too many pet owners are still ignorant of the dangers of excessive weight on pets. It is very important to keep in mind that excess weight plays a major role in developing arthritis, diabetes, and many other life-threatening diseases. It is well known – many from personal experience – that even losing a few pounds can result in improved mobility and more motivation to become more active as a result of shedding those few pounds. Pets are no different from people in this respect.
It is believed by some researchers that carrying an excess amount of weight can shorten the life of a pet by as much as two years, and can also cause arthritis to develop two years earlier than it would otherwise. A cat of a healthy weight is not at risk for diabetes, which is an inherited disease, but one that has a much greater chance of developing in overweight pets. A cat of a healthy weight may never suffer from diabetes. There is a higher chance of a cat developing diabetes if it becomes obese as it ages. The liver disease hepatic lipidosis, or fatty liver disease, is another potentially fatal disease that affects overweight pets. A cat that stops eating for some reason or another will develop hepatic lipidosis within 48 hours of stopping eating.
We all want our pets to stay trim, so how can we help them do that? The key to understanding your cat’s dietary habits is to understand his or her eating habits. On average, cats prefer to eat about 10 to 15 times daily, just at a nibble at a time, and they usually eat about 10 to 15 times a day. As for free-feeding, it has proven to be effective for most cats, but boredom may increase the number of times your cat visits the food bowl in a day. Playfully engaging and engaging your cat is a great way to keep it healthy at the same time as having fun. It will help keep your cat entertained and active at the same time! You and your cat will both be entertained if you tie a string to a stick and place something crinkly or fuzzy at the other end of the string, as well as use a little bit of your imagination. There are food puzzles on the market that may help motivate cats who are more food-directed to romp and tumble, such as kibbles placed in a paper bag or under an overturned basket or box.
In cases where your cat is severely overeating, you may need to take a firm stance, and you may have to regulate his food intake in order to help him. The best way to keep your cat’s food bowl full is to follow the feeding instructions on the packaging of the cat food and make sure to feed a high-quality cat food as prescribed by your vet instead of overfilling it. By giving your cat extra playtime and attention, you will be able to replace his habit of eating when bored. It is common for cats to adjust their desire for intimacy according to how much affection they are offered, which means that ignoring your cat will result in your cat ignoring you in return. On the other hand, if you spend a lot of time playing with and loving on your cat, that time will cause your cat to want to spend as much time with you as possible. Active cats are healthier, happier, and have fewer health issues – this includes their owner as well!
Dental Disease
In pets who do not have their teeth brushed on a regular basis, dental disease is one of the most common chronic problems they experience. You will probably find that your Exotic Cat doesn’t take very good care of his or her own teeth, and this is probably a fact that is universal among cats. There is a high probability that your cat will develop potentially serious dental issues if you do not give them the extra care and attention they need. In most cases, dental disease starts with food residue on the teeth, which hardens into tartar over time and builds up on the visible parts of the teeth, causing infection in the gums and the roots of the teeth, eventually leading to tooth decay.
As a cat owner, you can protect your pet from dental disease right from the start by regularly removing food residue from their mouth, which may prevent or delay the need for advanced dental treatments in the future. Preventive care will benefit your cat and your wallet in the long run, as this treatment can be stressful for your cat and costly for you. It is possible for your pet to lose teeth as a result of chronic dental infection, or else sustain organ damage as a consequence of chronic dental infection. As a side benefit, if nothing else, your cat will be a much more pleasant companion if he or she won’t be spitting out stinky cat breath all over the place! Our team of dental professionals will show you how to keep your cat’s pearly whites clean at home, as well as how to schedule routine dental exams for your cat.
Vaccine-Preventable Infections
It is known that Exotic Shorthairs, as are all cats, are susceptible to infections caused by bacteria and viruses, such as panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and rabies, which can all be prevented with vaccines. As these diseases are highly contagious and there is a high probability that your cat will contract them, the corresponding vaccines are called core vaccinations, which are highly recommended for cats of all ages. As well as offering protection against feline leukemia virus (FeLV), vaccines are available for protection against other dangers that could harm your cat. Our veterinarians will take into account a number of factors when making vaccination recommendations to you for your cat, including the prevalence of diseases in our area, the cat’s age, and any other risk factors specific to your cat’s lifestyle.
Parasites
Your Exotic Shorthair cat can be infected with a variety of worms and bugs on both the inside and outside of its body. Infestations of her skin and ears can be caused by a variety of different pests, including fleas, ticks, and ear mites. An individual may suffer from both hookworms and roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms if they drink unclean water, walk on contaminated soil, or get bitten by a mosquito carrying the parasites. These parasites can enter the body through a number of ways. You should be aware of the fact that some of these parasites are potentially transmittable and pose a serious threat to you and your family. There are some parasites that can cause pain, discomfort, and even death for your feline friend, so it’s important to test for them as often as possible, as they can cause them serious health problems. In order to find out whether your pet has parasites, a fecal exam is the best way to determine whether he or she suffers from them, so it’s a good idea to bring a fresh stool sample (in a smell-proof container, please) to her twice-a-year wellness checkup. Additionally, we will prescribe preventive medication if we feel that is necessary to keep your child healthy in the future.
Spay Or Neuter
Spaying your Exotic is one of the best things you can do for her, if she is a female, or neutering him if he is a male. It usually involves the removal of the ovaries and uterus in females, and the testicles in males, but this procedure also involves the removal of the ovaries in females. As a result of spaying or neutering your pet, you will reduce the risk of certain types of cancer as well as eliminating the chances that your pet may become pregnant or father an unwanted litter. Neutering generally decreases the amount of urine spraying and marking behavior shown by both sexes, and particularly in males it decreases the amount of urine spraying and marking behavior shown by both sexes.
While the cat is under anesthesia, we are also able to identify some of the diseases that are likely to affect your cat, while it is under anesthesia, and provide treatment for them while your cat is under anesthesia. A thorough dental examination to determine whether your cat has stomatitis can be conveniently performed at the same time as the spay or neuter operation to minimize the stress on your cat, for example, if your pet needs hip X-rays to check for dysplasia or if your cat needs hip X-rays to check for dysplasia or dysplasia. We also recommend routine blood tests before surgery for the purposes of identifying any common problems that may increase anesthetic or surgical risks, as well as taking precautions against them. This may sound like a lot to keep in mind, but don’t worry – we will discuss with you as soon as the time comes all the specific problems we will look for.
Genetic Predispositions For Exotic Shorthairs
Heart Disease
The medical term cardiomyopathy refers to the condition of weakened heart muscles, which can be either an inherited condition or a result of a secondary condition caused by another disease. A hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM for short, is a condition where the muscle of the heart thickens and is often caused by an overactive thyroid gland, which causes the heart to beat faster. The amino acid taurine, which plays a pivotal role in the function of the heart, is also found to play a role in the development of dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM. Despite the fact that DCM has been a serious issue in the past, most of the major cat food manufacturers today are now adding taurine to their products, so DCM is rarely found in cats that consume high-quality diets these days.
It is important for you to spot signs of cardiomyopathy as early as possible, but the tendency of cats to hide illness can make it difficult to detect symptoms of the disease. It is not unusual for pet parents to notice rapid breathing, lethargy, and a poor appetite as the very first signs of a pet illness. In some cases, the symptoms of these illnesses may appear suddenly, between a few hours and a few days, but we find that most of the time, the cat has actually been suffering quietly for weeks to months before exhibiting these symptoms. It is also important to note that HCM can result in the formation of blood clots within the heart. When blood clots form in the heart, they can exit the heart and lodge in the major arteries that carry blood to the legs in the rear. There is a possibility that the cat may suddenly lose the use of both its rear legs as well as its tail as a result of this occurrence, along with the legs becoming extremely painful to touch. Whether the cat is experiencing rapid breathing or painful paralysis, the cat is experiencing a medical emergency, and will need to be treated immediately by a veterinarian.
It is possible to test for a specific gene abnormality causing HCM in some breeds of cats through a genetic test. There is a heart murmur that can usually be detected during a wellness physical exam for cats who have cardiomyopathy, but a specific diagnosis can be determined only through more advanced medical imaging techniques. A second important reason for your pet to be evaluated twice a year for the rest of its life is to detect this problem early, when treatment is most effective.
Brachycephalic Syndrome
There is a disease called brachycephalic syndrome, which is the result of a short nose and flat face of cats, such as your Exotic Shorthair cat. This disease is primarily found in brachycephalic cats, who are those that have a short nose and flat face. There is the same amount of tissue in the noses and throats of these cats as in other breeds, however, due to their flattened features, the area for the tissue to grow is less in these cats than in other breeds. Therefore, this leads to a condition called soft palate, which refers to the soft tissue at the back of the roof of the mouth, becoming so long that it hangs down into the mouth and into the airway. There is also a problem with the nostrils often being too small, and the trachea, or windpipe, can sometimes be narrow and undersized. With all of these factors combined, cats with brachycephalic syndrome have narrow and obstructed airways as a result of the condition.
In many cases, cats with this type of disease have barely any breathing ability. They often suffer from sleep apnea and snoring, they have chronic respiratory problems, and they develop swelling and congestion in their throats, which only exacerbates the problem. There is also a higher risk of anesthetic complications in cats with the Brachycephalic syndrome, as they are more prone to heat stroke. If the defects in your cat are corrected through surgery as soon as possible, ideally at the time of spaying or neutering, then it is likely that your cat will live a longer and more normal life. But many cats with this syndrome die at an early age. There is the possibility of shortening the long soft palate, cutting open the nostrils, and restoring more regular breathing with surgery by shortening the long soft palate. When a cat has brachycephalic syndrome, it may not seem like they have a severe problem at first, but as they get older they may experience more serious problems, for which surgery may be required at this point.
Cataract
Among older Exotic pets, cataracts are one of the most common causes of blindness. The lens of the eyes becomes opaque, or cloudy rather than clear, at the onset of the disease, causing the vision to become blurred or less sharp. It may be an option to remove the cataracts in the cat’s eyes and restore its vision, although most cats adjust well to gradually losing their sight over the years and still live a happy and healthy life despite losing their sight. Every time your cat has a biannual exam, we will examine its eyes closely and if a cataract develops, we will discuss with you the treatment options available to you.
Eyelid Agenesis
As the name suggests, eyelid agenesis occurs at birth when there is a defect in the development of the upper eyelid. As a result of this malformation, the cornea is constantly exposed to foreign matter, such as dust, eyelashes, hair, and other materials that may come into contact with the cornea. The result is that the eye does not receive adequate hydration, and as a result, it remains irritated, red, and dry due to the lack of hydration. Eventually, this irritation can lead to painful corneal ulcers and scar tissue developing over time, which can lead to partial or complete blindness, depending on the severity of the condition. Treatment may include applying eye lubricant to the affected eye or cryosurgery to remove the eyelashes that are rubbing against the eyes in mild cases. It is common for affected cats to be treated through surgical reconstruction of their eyelids, but this is not always the case. A cat who has received a new set of eyelids should be able to see normally once the wound has healed, and the eyelids will be able to function normally in the future.
Flutd
Having your cat urinate outside the litter box may cause you to be annoyed or furious, especially if he/she decided to urinate in the best pair of shoes you have ever owned. Nevertheless, don’t get mad too fast if your cat is urinating around the house – he is, in most cases, sending you a signal to get his attention. Despite the fact that true urinary incontinence, in which the bladder muscles cannot be controlled, is rare in cats, and is typically caused by improper nerve function resulting from a spinal defect, in most cases, cats who urinate in “naughty” locations are trying to get your attention to a problem that they are experiencing. In recent years, research has shown that what was once thought to be only one urinary syndrome may actually be several over the course of years, but that the term Feline Lower Urinary Tract Diseases, or FLUTD, is currently used to refer to these diseases.
As well as showing many of the same symptoms as cats with urinary tract infections, cats with urolithiasis can also manifest with many of the same symptoms as cats with obstructions of the urinary tract, which may also present with many of the same symptoms as a blocked tomcat, which has many of the same problems as their feline counterparts. Identifying the early signs of FLUTD can be done by watching for any signs of abnormal urination, such as urinating on a cool surface (such as a tile floor or bathtub), blood in the urine, straining to urinate when there is little or no urine production, or crying in the litter box. Please call us as soon as possible for an urgent appointment if your cat shows any of these symptoms. A blockage of the cat’s urethra, particularly if he is a male cat, can cause the cat to be unable to expel any urine, which can develop into an emergency within only a few hours if the urethra becomes blocked with stones or crystals. Having your cat unable to urinate is a painful and quickly fatal problem, so if you suspect they may be blocked, call an emergency veterinarian as soon as possible.
The early signs of FLUTD are easy to miss as cats are very good at hiding just how sick they are, so it is very easy to miss the early signs. It is very important for you to bring your cat in for regular urinalysis testing so that we can check the cat for signs of infection, kidney disease, crystals in the urine, and even diabetes through routine urinalysis testing. As an additional method of detecting stones in the bladder or kidneys, X-rays and ultrasounds can also be used. In mild cases of FLUTD, medications and special diets can be used to control the disease, whereas in severe cases, surgery may be necessary to treat the condition.
Polycystic Kidney Disease
A defective gene is responsible for the development of polycystic kidney disease (PKD). Persians were the first breeds that were known to have the disease, and it has been recognized occasionally in other breeds, such as Exotic Shorthairs. The affected kittens are born with a small cyst inside the kidneys or the liver. As the cysts grow, they may eventually cause the organ to be destroyed, because the cysts slowly enlarge over time. As a rule of thumb, the symptoms of this disease usually become apparent around the age of seven. A number of these symptoms include weight loss, vomiting, excessive thirst, and generally poor health as a whole.
It is important to recognize that PKD is incurable, although specific diets and medications can slow the progress of the resulting organ failure; detecting PKD at an early stage may allow effective support of kidney and liver function for many years to come. Therefore, it is recommended for all adult cats to undergo routine urine or blood testing on an annual basis to monitor for early signs of organ dysfunction. To assess the condition of the cysts and the extent of the current damage, an ultrasound examination of the abdomen may be ordered if PKD is suspected. PKD can also be genetically tested, and responsible breeders recommend that cats with the PKD gene should not be used for breeding because they carry the gene for the disease.
Hip Dysplasia
There is a high likelihood that hip dysplasia will occur in dogs, but it can also occur in cats, most commonly in Exotic Shorthairs. An inheritable disorder known as dysplasia is characterized by malformations of the hip joints and subsequently resulting in arthritis of the hip joints. Cats born as adolescent usually show very few clinical symptoms, but within the first few years of their life they may begin to slow down and act more like older cats. By the time the cats are six months old, however, severely affected cats may start to show signs of lameness as well. Early hip dysplasia can be detected with pelvic X-rays, but cats should be anesthetized or sedated in preparation for such a procedure, partly because cats find the radiograph machine frightening and stressful, but also because it is essential to take an X-ray of the pelvis while the cat is perfectly still during the procedure. The anesthesia allows for the proper positioning of the cat so as to be able to take a clear, diagnostic radiograph of the cat without any unnecessary pain or fear the cat may experience during an X-ray, especially if the cat already has sore hips.
In the case of hip dysplasia, the best treatment is to detect it early on when it is still treatable, which is why you should take an initial X-ray of the hips when your kitten is spayed or neutered, usually around the age of 3 to 6 months. During the course of your cat’s annual dental cleaning, X-rays can be conveniently scheduled as part of the appointment so that you will not need to perform as many anesthetic procedures on your cat. It may be possible to alleviate the symptoms of hip dysplasia, if necessary, by reshaping the pelvis surgically, to help relieve pain and to allow your cat with hip dysplasia to be more mobile. It is important to ask your breeder whether the hips of the parents of your kitten have been X-rayed, because this is a genetic disease, if you intend to purchase a purebred kitten.
Portosystemic Shunt
There is a disorder known as portosystemic shunt that is occasionally seen in cats, in which a portion of the blood supply that is normally provided to the liver is instead directed around it. It is believed that this condition impairs the liver’s ability to grow and function properly, resulting in an undersized, poorly nourished liver that is incapable of fully removing toxins from the bloodstream due to a lack of adequate blood flow. As a result of the unfiltered waste material build-up in the body, such as ammonia and bile acids, they eventually build up in the bloodstream and act as poisons to the body’s organs. In severe cases, high blood-ammonia levels can lead to neurological symptoms, such as seizures and headaches. Portosystemic shunts can also lead to severe drug and anesthetic sensitivity in cats, since the liver is unable to effectively remove the added chemicals from the bloodstream when a cat is affected by such a device. Our veterinarians can perform blood tests or an ultrasound scan of your cat’s liver if there is a possibility that your cat has symptoms of a portosystemic shunt. Occasionally, surgery can be performed to restore the liver’s normal blood flow in some cases.
FIP Susceptibility
This is a fatal disease caused by a coronavirus that is a type of coronavirus, which causes feline infectious peritonitis, or FIP for short. This virus is present in all cats in a dormant state. However, if this virus undergoes a combination of specific mutations, it can be reactivated and act on the cat’s immune system, resulting in the cat developing FIP and eventually dying. In comparison to other breeds, exotic shorthairs appear to be more at risk of developing FIP than other breeds. There is a risk of bleeding from the blood vessels (vasculitis) and fluid accumulating within the abdomen or chest as a result of FIP. Coronaviruses can be detected by blood testing in cats, but these tests are not good at distinguishing between harmless coronaviruses and actual FIP in cats, which is the most common type of coronavirus.
Therefore, it is difficult and unreliable to conduct a screening of cats before breeding or selling them in order to determine if they have this disease. The possibility of FIP developing in a cattery population is never far from the radar, but the risk is greater when a purebred cat is purchased from a breeder; once FIP has developed in a cattery population, it is hard to get rid of it. If you plan to purchase a kitten or cat, always be sure to ask about the history of a kitten’s or cat’s FIP infection in their family or in their cattery before making a purchase. The condition is fatal at present, and there is no treatment available for it, so it is currently an incurable disease.
Blood Type
In spite of the fact that we hate to think about what could happen to our pets if disaster strikes, it is best to be prepared for any situation. A blood transfusion is one of the most effective life-saving treatments available to emergency physicians today when it comes to saving lives. It is important to be aware that the sooner a blood transfusion is begun, the better your cat’s chances of survival will be if he has been critically ill or injured and needs a blood transfusion.
In the same way that people have different blood types, cats also have different blood types. Domestic cats, such as the Exotic Shorthair cat you have, usually have type A blood, while purebred cats, such as the Exotic Shorthair cat you have, usually have type B blood or very rarely, type AB blood. A cat’s blood type is essential to know before starting a transfusion, so determining the type of blood your cat has ahead of time can save you a lot of time down the road. For purebred cats, blood typing is especially important. During routine wellness blood testing, this test can be included in the routine wellness blood testing of your pet. This test can also be added to the microchip records of your pet in order to take quick action even in the event that you are unable to be present.
Neonatal Isoerythrolysis (NI)/Hemolytic Icterus
The neonatal isoerythrolysis (NI) syndrome, also called type A blood disease, is a rare immune-mediated disease that is caused by the ingestion of colostrum (the first milk) from a mother with type A blood, or vice versa, by a newborn kitten with type A blood. During the nursing process, colostrum, which carries the mother’s immunity against type A blood, absorbed into the kitten’s bloodstream through ingestion, is used to provide the kitten with immunity against type A blood. Due to this immune reaction, the kitten’s own red blood cells are attacked and destroyed by the antibodies that are created as a result. It is therefore not uncommon for kittens affected by this disease to die within a few days after being born. As your Exotic Shorthair is a breed with a higher likelihood of having type B blood, NI is more likely to occur in cat breeds with a higher likelihood of having type B blood. In order to know more about this problem, you will need to talk to your veterinarian well in advance if you plan on breeding your cat.
Separation Anxiety Syndrome
There is no doubt that most cats prefer a solitary lifestyle, however some Exotic Shorthairs have a tendency to form unhealthy and excessive attachments to their owners. It is possible for dogs to become so attached to their human counterparts that when their counterparts are not around, they get anxious or bored, resulting in destructive behaviors such as paper shredding, vocalization, or litter box amnesia when their counterparts are not around. The owner of a cat may even display aggressive behavior towards the cat when they realize that the owner is about to leave the house. During the time that your cat is left alone, make sure that he has plenty of special toys or food puzzles to keep his mind and body occupied so that he does not succumb to the vice of boredom. Separation anxiety can also be prevented by establishing a predictable daily routine and maintaining a stable home environment in a child’s life. The use of anti-anxiety medication is also a possible option for your worried friend to keep him or her calm in severe cases.
Dystocia
An example of dystocia is when a woman has difficulty giving birth to a child. Because of a breed’s specific physical characteristics, nearly all litters are delivered by Cesarean-section surgery in order to prevent the possibility of the newborn being born by natural birth. Despite the fact that breeding any breed of cat requires a great deal of knowledge and preparation about the breed’s possible problems, professional breeders warn that proper Exotic Shorthair breeding can be extremely costly and carries a higher risk of death than other breeds, as well as a higher risk of death for both the mother and the kittens.
Taking Care Of Your Exotic Shorthair At Home
The majority of what you can do at home to keep your cat healthy and happy is common sense, and it is the same for humans as well. It is very important that you keep an eye on her diet, ensure that she gets plenty of exercise, and brush her teeth and coat regularly. You should also contact us or a pet emergency hospital if you notice anything unusual occurring (see “What to Watch For” below). Make sure that you follow the schedule that we recommend for your pet’s examinations and vaccinations according to the schedule that we give you. Your cat’s exam will consist of a series of “check-ups” as well as diagnostic tests for a number of diseases and conditions that are common in exotic cats. You should also take the time to enroll your pet in a pet health insurance policy as another step in taking care of your pet. Pet health insurance will be able to assist you in covering the costs associated with the medical tests and procedures that she will require throughout her lifetime.
Routine Care, Diet, And Exercise
In order for your Exotic Shorthair to live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime, it is imperative that you incorporate routine care into your daily life. There cannot be enough emphasis placed on the significance of feeding your pet a nutritionally balanced diet and keeping him or her active.
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The same amount of supervision you would give to a small child should be given to your pet. Close all the doors, clean up after yourself, and block off any rooms that need to be separated as necessary. By doing this, we will be able to keep our daughter away from trouble, off of inappropriate surfaces where she can jump, and away from anything she shouldn’t put in her mouth.
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It is easy to maintain her short coat since it is low maintenance. The hair should be brushed on a regular basis, at least once a week, to keep it looking healthy.
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If you brush your Exotic Shorthair dog’s teeth at least twice a week and you keep them in good condition, you will be able to keep their teeth in great condition.
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It is important to check her ears weekly for wax, debris, and signs of infection, and to clean them as needed. Having trouble finding your way around? Don’t worry, we’re here to help!
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You must be careful to watch her weight, as she has a tendency to become obese.
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In order to avoid tears staining her face, she needs to wash her face regularly with a damp cloth.
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You should make sure that your cat drinks adequate amounts of water throughout the day. Adding ice cubes to the water bowl or a flowing fountain will make her drink the water if she doesn’t drink it from her bowl.
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You should feed your cat a high-quality feline diet that is suitable for her age and size.
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The best way to keep your cat active is to provide her with toys that are high in activity on a regular basis.
What To Watch For
An abnormal symptom in your pet may only be a temporary or minor issue, but it could also be a sign of a more serious illness or disease that your pet has. Taking care of your cat properly requires you to know when and how urgently to seek veterinary attention for your cat. There are many diseases that can cause cats to present with a set of symptoms that can be used as a clear indicator that your Exotic Shorthair is in need of medical intervention.
Office Calls
If you notice any of these types of symptoms, do not hesitate to call us for an appointment:
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The consumption of water or appetite has changed
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It is common for people to suffer from bad breath, tartar buildup, red gums, or broken teeth
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The skin is itchy (scratching, chewing, or licking), the hair is falling out, or there are areas of short hair
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Insomnia, lethargy, and mental dullness are all signs of mental fatigue
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There may be changes in your behavior such as anxiety, aggression, or fear
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The person has lameness, abnormal hind limb gait, and has a “bunny hopping” gait
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There are abnormal behaviors, particularly in the hours following a meal, which tend to become worse
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A tendency to feel drowsy, lose weight, or suffer from chronic infections, especially upper respiratory infections or gingivitis, are signs of these conditions
Emergencies
In case you notice any of these signs, it is imperative that you seek medical attention immediately:
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Symptoms such as head scratching or shaking, tender ears, or discharge from the ears
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The eyes are affected by cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality that involves the eyes
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It is impossible for you to urinate or it is difficult for you to urinate; your urine is discolored
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An inability to exercise or a feeling of weakness; breathing patterns that are rapid, labored, or open-mouthed; weakness that appears suddenly
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Breathing that is loud or labored
History
Due to the popularity of the Persian in the late 1950s, American Shorthair fans secretly began to mix Persian dogs into their American Shorthair bloodlines in an attempt to improve body type and to introduce the beautiful and favored color of the Persian into the American Shorthair. As a result of this hybridization, in those days American Shorthairs were referred to as Domestic Shorthairs, and thus they grew fatter and rounder, their noses shortened, and their coats grew longer and denser. (At that time, American Shorthairs were also referred to as Domestic Shorthairs.) Angered at the changes occurring in the breed, some American Shorthair breeders began to exclude all American Shorthair puppies exhibiting signs of hybridization from their breeding program. As long as it wasn’t for the efforts of CFA judge Jane Martinke, the Exotic Shorthairs may have faded into cat fancy history. It was not until 1967, however, that the Cat Fanciers Association accepted the Exotic Shorthair for championship status for the very first time.
Eventually, breeders who bred hybrids of American Shorthairs and Persians were allowed to transfer their hybrids into the newly created Exotic Shorthair category under the CFA. When the shorthair gene was introduced to American Shorthairs first, exotic breeders used Burmese, Russian Blue and Abyssinian dogs along with American Shorthairs. A couple of years ago, the CFA began to severely limit the number of outcrosses in the breed as it began to gain in popularity and as the gene pool grew larger. As of 1987, shorthair outcrosses are not allowed in the Exotic category of the CFA, thus making the Persian the only breed that can be outcrossed. A purebred Exotic Shorthair was first recognized as a grand champion in 1971. He is now one of the most popular purebred shorthairs in the world.