British Longhair

Breed Characteristics:

Affectionate with Family

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Some cat breeds are typically independent and aloof, even if they've been raised by the same person since kittenhood; others bond closely to one person and are indifferent to everyone else; and some shower the whole family with affection. Breed isn't the only factor that goes into affection levels; cats who were raised inside a home with people around feel more comfortable with humans and bond more easily.See Cats Less Affectionate with Family

Amount of Shedding

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If you're going to share your home with a cat, you'll need to deal with some level of cat hair on your clothes and in your house. However, shedding does vary among the breeds. If you're a neatnik, you'll need to either pick a low-shedding breed or relax your standards. This furniture cover can make it easier to clean up cat hair and keep it off your sofa!

• See Cats with Low Amount of Shedding

General Health

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Due to poor breeding practices, some breeds are prone to certain genetic health problems. This doesn't mean that every cat of that breed will develop those diseases; it just means that they're at an increased risk. If you're looking only for purebred cats or kittens, it's a good idea to find out which genetic illnesses are common to the breed you're interested in.See Cats Prone to Health Problems

Potential for Playfulness

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Some cats are perpetual kittens—full of energy and mischief—while others are more serious and sedate. Although a playful kitten sounds endearing, consider how many games of chase the mouse-toy you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other animals who can stand in as playmates. A classic wand cat toy like this one is perfect for playful felines!

• See Cats with Low Potential for Playfulness

Tendency to Vocalize

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Some breeds sound off more often than others with meows, yowls, and chattering. When choosing a breed, think about how the cat vocalizes and how often. If constant "conversation" drives you crazy, consider a kitty less likely to chat.See Cats with Lower Tendency to Vocalize

Kid-Friendly

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Being tolerant of children, sturdy enough to handle the heavy-handed pets and hugs they can dish out, and having a nonchalant attitude toward running, screaming youngsters are all traits that make a kid-friendly cat. Our ratings are generalizations, and they're not a guarantee of how any breed or individual cat will behave; cats from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences and personality.See Least Kid Friendly Cats

Friendly Toward Strangers

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Stranger-friendly cats will greet guests with a curious glance or a playful approach; others are shy or indifferent, perhaps even hiding under furniture or skedaddling to another room. However, no matter what the breed, a cat who was exposed to lots of different types, ages, sizes, and shapes of people as a kitten will respond better to strangers as an adult.

• See Cats Shy Toward Strangers

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Easy to Groom

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Some breeds require very little in the way of grooming; others require regular brushing to stay clean and healthy. Consider whether you have the time and patience for a cat who needs daily brushing. You should definitely pick up this awesome de-shedding tool for cats of any hair length!

• See Cats That Need to Groom

Intelligence

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Some cat breeds are reputed to be smarter than others. But all cats, if deprived the mental stimulation they need, will make their own busy work. Interactive cat toys are a good way to give a cat a brain workout and keep them out of mischief. This scratcher cat toy can keep your smart kitty busy even when you're not home!

• See Cats with Less Intelligence

Pet Friendly

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Friendliness toward other household animals and friendliness toward humans are two completely different things. Some cats are more likely than others to be accepting of other pets in the home.

• See Least Pet Friendly Cats

More About This Breed

• History

  When it comes to the history of the British Longhair, it all begins with the parent breed that gives these cats their names--British Shorthair. At some point widely speculated to be between 1914 and 1918, breeders began to cross the British Shorthairs with the Persians in a bid to produce a kitty with longer hair. The British Longhair was the result, and the breed has prospered as a super popular domestic cat ever since!

  In 2009, the British Longhair was officially granted championship status by the International Cat Association (TICA).

  These days, you may find British Longhairs in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you!

• Size

  The British Longhair is a medium- to large-sized cat breed who's often a little on the stockier side. As is always the case, exact size standards might vary.

  Most British Longhairs weigh in at nine to 18 pounds. That said, many may be smaller or larger than average.

• Personality

  At heart, the British Longhair is a loving and friendly cat who will also show a great deal of tolerance. They are sociable towards people when they're around, but the breed is also happy to enjoy their own time, which makes them a smart choice for someone who might be away from the home for long hours due to work commitments.

  While there is a laid-back nature about the British Shorthair, it's important to encourage the breed to stay active and engage in exercise. Think of the British Longhair as a breed of cat that you'll need to invest some time and effort in when you're around them to get the best out of them.

  Also note that the British Longhair is an affectionate cat, but they do not generally enjoy being picked up or carried around. They are a breed that might be better suited to adult lifestyles rather than a home buzzing with kids all the time.

• Health

  British Longhairs are generally considered to be healthy cats; although, it's important to schedule regular wellness visits with your cat's vet.

  Some of the more common health problems British Longhairs suffer from include:

  • Renal Polycystosis
  • Neonatal Isoerythrolysis

• Care

  The British Longhair needs a little coaxing to make sure they remain active and engage in enough exercise. Otherwise, feline obesity and other related health issues might set in.

  A smart way to encourage the breed to exercise is through the use of treat-based games and play sessions. Also, consider interactive feeding devices if it seems like your British Longhair is becoming a little too much of a lounge cat.

  Along with scheduling yearly wellness vet visits, your British Longhair will need to have their nails checked and trimmed on a regular basis. If you're new to cat maintenance, your vet can show you the safest way to carry this out. Adding a scratching post to your living environment can also help promote healthy scratching and keep the cat's nails in good condition.

  Beyond nail care, examine the British Longhair's ears for signs of dirt building up or possible infection every couple of weeks. It's also smart to speak to your vet about beginning a regular teeth brushing regimen that will suit your British Longhair.

• Coat Color And Grooming

  The British Longhair's coat can come in a wide range of colors, although blue is the most popular shade. Other frequent colors include tabby, white, cream, and black.

  As the name suggests, the British Longhair is a long-haired cat whose luxurious coat will require a commitment to daily brushing. This is imperative to help ward off any mats forming, and during times of seasonal shedding, you'll need to engage in longer than usual brushing sessions. Regular grooming will also lessen the chances of hairballs occurring.

  When it comes to climate, the British Longhair is generally seen as an adaptable cat who can usually live happily in most climates. Just remember to always make sure adequate shade and fresh water is provided when the temperature spikes.

• Children And Other Pets

  The British Longhair can live happily with children. Although, this generally tolerant cat often doesn't take well to being picked up and carried around. So be sure that early socialization takes place and boundaries are properly set on both sides, and supervise early interactions between kids and cats.

  When it comes to other household pets, the British Longhair is usually fine sharing living quarters. However, you'll want to supervise early interactions between the new cat and existing pets, as well.

  Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your British Longhair for good behavior when you bring them home to your family!

• Rescue Groups

  It may be hard to find a breed specific rescue for British Longhair cats because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try British Shorthair or Persian cat breed specific rescues, as they sometimes care for breed mixes. You may also try shelters and rescues that cater to all types of cats, including British Longhair cats, as well as your local shelter. Here are some nonprofit rescues you can try:

  • Persian and Himalayan Cat Rescue
  • Hope For Paws
  • Best Friends Animal Society

  You can also try CatTime's adoption page that lets you search for adoptable cats by breed and zip code!