How to Identify an Exotic Cat

The Exotic cat has been on the cat world scene since about 1960. They are a mix of a Persian Longhair and an American Shorthair cat. The Exotic is also known as Exotic Shorthair. Here are a few tips that will help you identify this breed.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Examine the coat of the cat. The coat tends to be longer than most shorthairs. The coat is dense and almost springy. The coat doesn't sit close to the body.

2. Look at the body of the cat. The body tends to be sturdy and elegant looking. They are strong and muscular.

3. Study the head of the cat. They tend to be massive and a bit chubby. The head sits atop a very muscular neck. The ears are set close to the face which appears fairly round.

4. Look at the nose. These cats have a nose that is short and broad. Also, the nose has a definite stop to it.

5. Feel the tail of the cat. The Exotic has a short tail that is low set on the body and is without curves to the end.

6. Stare deep into their eyes. The eyes are round and wide set. The coloration of the eyes will match the coat. For white haired cats they are blue; for black haired cats, they are copper in color.

Tips & Warnings

• These cats have the best traits of both parents. They are calm and affectionate like the Persians, yet have a very playful and alert nature like their American Shorthair parent.

Resources

• The Cat Fancier's Association web site
• The Cat Fanciers' Federation web site.