British Shorthair vs Exotic Shorthair

Verdict

These two plush shorthairs are close. Both are calm, quiet cats with energy at 2, voice at 1 and apartment living at 5. The one thing that decides it is the flat face. The Exotic Shorthair has one, which means face cleaning, breathing and eye care, regular vet checks and a welfare debate. The British Shorthair has a rounder, less flat-faced build and rates 4 for independence against 3. The Exotic is more affectionate. Choose the British Shorthair for easier health care and the Exotic for a quiet lap cat.

Choose the British Shorthair if

• You want a rounder, less flat-faced cat.
• You are out for part of the day, since independence is 4.
• You want a cat that rarely behaves like a lap cat, with affection at 3.
• You prefer grooming at 2 and accept heavy seasonal shedding.

Choose the Exotic Shorthair if

• You want a quiet, affectionate lap cat, with affection at 4.
• You will clean the face regularly and keep its weight steady.
• You are ready to pay for regular vet checks.
• You accept the welfare debate around flat-faced breeds.

Where they are alike

Both cats are common, plush, short-coated and gentle with children, scoring 4 each. Each lists polycystic kidney disease for the vet to watch.