British long-haired cats, what are they?
British long-haired cats are semi-long-haired relatives of British shorthairs. Many people are surprised to find out that a British Longhair cat is in front of them. Thanks to active breeders, more and more people are becoming aware of the existence of the British Longhair breed.
What makes this breed so wonderful, you ask?
The British Longhair’s most important attribute is its unique, luxurious coat, which surprises and delights us every day – dense, semi-long and silky.
At any time of the day or night, the cat is ready to show us its regal attire. The chic collar, knickers and fluffy tail give these cats a glamorous look. In addition to the magnificent fur, which can come in a variety of colours and patterns, we see the owner of a sturdy build, wide-open eyes, rounded paws, small ears, a bushy tail and, of course, that famous British smile.
These cats have a special coat that does not tangle and does not require the tedious and time-consumingo care. Cats should be brushed 2-3 times a month and 2 times a week during the feeding period, from the head to the tip of the tail. Usually, brushing is a great pleasure not only for the cat but also for the owner, so the hands reach for the brush. Cats will reward you for this pleasure with a mesmerising amber/emerald eye (depending on coat colour) and a soft purr. Cats are bathed on request.
British Longhairs are intelligent, independent, well-trained, gentle, calm, undemanding cats. Small kittens are plush toys that are impossible to pass by… At 3 – 6 months old, kittens do not stay in one place for long without something to do, they always have “things to do” and are happy to “help” their owners with everyday chores. Of course, kittens remain kittens, but with age (2 – 3 years), even the most reluctant cat becomes emotionally mature.
Cats weigh 3-6 kg, males 6-10 kg (castrates weigh more).
Adults cats and kittens, enjoying toys, noisy, short-lived but playful…
If you want solitude, your cat will feel it and will not accept your company. Despite their independence, cats of this breed need a human and choose their own owner. When the owner is not home, the cat lives very quietly: sleeping, eating and waiting for you to come back.
British Longhairs are emotional cats, expressing their emotions with their eyes, “eyebrows”, moustache, paws and tail wagging to show how happy they are that their beloved owner is back.
How did the British Longhair originate?
During the First and Second World Wars, due to the depletion of the cat population, British Shorthairs were allowed to breed with Persian cats. The short-haired kittens born from this mating were used for British breeding and the long-haired kittens for Persian breeding. In addition to the desired traits, the British Shorthair cats received a recessive long-hair gene.