Before adopting a dog or a cat, as a potential pet owner, research the different breeds that might be perfect for your current living situation. This is because you are trying to place an animal in your family and see if you would be the perfect guardian for that animal. Different breeds and personalities require different families.
You want to provide the best possible care and a loving family to that animal. This means being aware of all the positive and negative sides that this pet might bring. They have different necessities and ways of living. Committing to them means adapting your routine, taking care of all their needs, and ensuring you are preventing them from developing serious illnesses.
The British shorthair is one of the most distinguishable feline breeds throughout the world. Its origin goes back to the 1860s when the native ones were mixed with the cats brought by the Romans from Egypt. Their domestic cats were bred with the domestic ones in Great Britain, producing a large and new breed adapted to the specific conditions in Great Britain. For more on this breed check this out https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Shorthair .
The British shorthair is the pedigreed version of the traditional types. It is one of the most common types in the United Kingdom. Before and after the war, there was a need to save them from extinction, so they were mixed with other specific types. They have undergone a very selecting breeding process, so the British Blue variant is somewhat standardized throughout the United Kingdom.
British Shorthair characteristics
This cat is one of the most powerful-looking cats in the world. Their look is very distinctive and recognizable. They are large compared to other types of felines. They have a chunky thick body, wide head, medium-size tail, and a very impenetrable fur coat. They have a large set of eyes that are most commonly deep orange but can otherwise vary in color. The males are larger than the female ones.
Their coat color can also vary in pattern and color. The most dominant one is the grey one. Their coat is very silky and requires little to no attention when it comes to maintenance. Compared to other types of felines, they need close to three years to reach their full physical development. They are known for being chunky with an average weight above 4kg. That weight range can vary depending on if the feline is male or female.
They are incredibly intelligent, loyal, and affectionate. They make a great companion because they are somewhat a gentle breed. They are suited for a quiet and calm life, but they are also very comfortable with small children and different pets. They are very low maintenance, interactive, and require to be kept indoors. They are perfect for first-time cat owners who want a stable and even-tempered cat.
The British Shorthair is considered to be introverted and can handle being left alone. This doesn’t mean that they don’t suffer from separation anxiety. You shouldn’t leave them alone for larger periods because they do require attention. They should be large, but obesity is a huge problem. Before considering being an owner of this delight, make sure you contact your physician and develop a proper diet plan for them. For a proper diet plan click here.
Feeding your animal is a large part of their health. Poor diets can cause numerous health problems and can negatively impact the life of your pet. Therefore, a proper routine and diet for your pet are advised. They are known to have a strong appetite, that is why portion-controlling should be implemented. Their diet should revolve around proteins and water. Investigate which quality of brands is within your budget.
One thing this cat dislikes is being carried around. Unlike other cats, they don’t want to be picked up and held. They want their feet safely on the ground. If they want to be pet, they will make sure you are brought to attention. Even though they are quite happy being on their own, they do require your attention. They can feel insecure, and that is why you should spend plenty of time with them.
British Shorthair health issues
This cat breed is considered to be amongst the types of felines that live a long life. They usually live 14 to 20 years. This doesn’t mean that they are not prone to some kinds of diseases. Like with any animal, the British cat breed care requires planning and being aware of their vulnerabilities. Proper diet and regular exercise can help prevent some of the problems that might occur in the duration of their life.
They can be prone to several health issues. They can suffer from inflammation in their urinary tracts. This issue is hard to cure and is often induced by stress and bacterial infection. Make sure your home is clean and that the living space of your pet is cleaned regularly.
Other common health issues include a thyroid hormonal disbalance. This can affect every organ of their body and is a severe issue. This will significantly affect their heart tissue. It will make them lose weight rapidly, make them feel disoriented and sick. This issue requires medical care and intervention.
Researching the symptoms of these common health issues can keep you aware of the early signs of the illnesses. Catching a problem early on can save the life of your cat. Regular checkups with your veterinarian, proper diet, and exercise are advised. This will prolong and make sure the life of your pet is joyful.
