British Shorthair
Country / place of origin: United Kingdom
History: The British Shorthair is the descendant of cats brought to Britain by the Romans, which then interbred with native wildcats.They were later crossbred with Persians to improve the thickness of their coat. The breed was finally defined in the 19th century.
Appearance
Details: The British Shorthair coat is very dense and plush, so much that it is said to resemble a teddy bear. The large, round eyes are copper colored. They have round heads with full and chubby cheeks, a broad chest, shoulders and hips with short legs, round paws and plush tail. They have a body that is rounded and sturdy. The makes are noticeably larger than females. The average lifespan is said to be 14-20 years.
Color / coat: The British Shorthair comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns including all solid colors, dilutes, tabby patterns, bicolor and colorpoints. The deep blue color was once very common and even had a breed name of its own: the 'British Blue'. However, the breed now comes in a large variety of color and pattern variations that are accepted in most breed registry standards.
Behavioral aspects: The British Shorthair is a very easygoing, affectionate breed. It loves to follow its owner from room to room and then settle contentedly by his side. They are moderately active, easy-going and friendly toward all they consider as their family. Their stable character makes them an ideal pet in an apartment setting. The breed is well behaved and is not normally destructive or hyperactive; it can be playful at appropriate times.