Mary Allen
The European Shorthair is often dismissed as “just an ordinary house cat”. In fact, the cuddly cat is one of the most popular breeds of cats and is a real gem among cats. Find out everything about the European Shorthair cat breed here.
European shorthair cats are extremely popular pedigree cats among cat lovers. Here you will find the most important information about the European Shorthair.
Origin Of The European Shorthair
The ancestors of the European Shorthair were usually peasant domestic and farm cats whose primary task was to catch mice. Over the centuries, this breed developed on the European continent.
The type and the different coat markings of the European Shorthair were refined through targeted breeding. However, despite its long history, the breed was not recognized until 1982.
The Appearance Of The European Shorthair
The European Shorthair is a medium to large cat. A tomcat can weigh up to seven kilograms, and a female up to six kilograms. This breed is considered to be very robust and has a broad chest, which makes it appear stocky but not clumsy. The body of the European Shorthair is muscular and strong. The medium-length legs are also muscular, the paws are round.
The head of the European Shorthair is relatively large with beautiful, round eyes that can be any color found in cats. The European Shorthair has a short nose and ears that are set wide apart and broad at the base. The cat’s face looks particularly endearing due to the small chubby cheeks, which also characterize the breed. The tail of the European Shorthair is strong and tapers towards the end.
Coat And Colors Of The European Shorthair
There are no limits to the fur and color of the European Shorthair. Up to 70 colors are recognized in this breed, but only about 30 are bred. When breeding, emphasis is placed on clear colors and clear markings.
The uncomplicated coat of the European Shorthair is short and dense with a good undercoat in the cold months. The topcoat is shiny.
The Temperament Of The European Shorthair
The European Shorthair is a very active cat with a strong urge to move. Their hunting instinct is very strong. In addition, the European Shorthair is playful and clever. Due to her loving and cuddly nature, she is an affectionate family member. In terms of volume, she is more of a quiet cat.
Keeping And Caring For The European Shorthair
Due to their high urge to move, the European Shorthair is not suitable for just keeping an apartment. This breed loves to be outdoors: life as an outdoor roamer is optimal, but a protected balcony or a fenced enclosure should definitely be made available to the European Shorthair. Nevertheless, the European Shorthair is the perfect family cat due to its affectionate, uncomplicated, and lovable nature.
Enough time should always be planned for the European Shorthair. If she’s locked in an apartment all day alone, she quickly gets bored.
The European Shorthair is usually very happy about a conspecific to play with.
The maintenance effort for the European Shorthair is low. Occasional combing, especially when changing fur, is sufficient to free the cat’s fur from dead hair. The loose hair usually comes loose when you stroke it.
Especially about the European Shorthair: They are known for their good health. While many other pedigree cats often suffer from specific diseases, the European Shorthair is not explicitly susceptible to any particular disease. Of course, she can also suffer from typical cat diseases. The most common infectious diseases of the European Shorthair include cat flu and cat epidemic – against which, however, there is a vaccination. The European Shorthair should also be vaccinated against rabies and leucosis when released.