A composite cat! The Exotic can be said to have it all: the cobby build and irresistible snub-nose and round face of a Longhair, coupled with a shorter, plush, coat that is a boon for those people who do not have the time nor the inclination for regular grooming sessions.
History
The Exotic arrived on the American scene in the late 1960s, the result of interbreeding Longhairs, American Shorthairs, and Burmese. As a hybrid breed, it is an extremely healthy and robust cat.
Temperament
As might be expected, the Exotic combines characteristics inherited from its forebears, it is as gentle and affectionate as a Longhair, but has the playful, alert intelligence of an American Shorthair.
Varieties
All the coat colours are patterns found in Longhairs and in American Shorthairs are permitted for the Exotic – giving over fifty varieties from which to choose. The color of the eyes and the nose and paw pads depends on the variety, but should always conform to the coat colour.
Blue Tabby Exotic Shorthair
One reason for the Exotic’s consistent appeal is the affecting, sweet expression created by the round face and snub nose inherited from its Longhaired background.
Blue Tabby Exotic ShorthairBody
Medium to large in size; a solid chunky, cobby type and short, thick neck.
Coat
The fur is medium in length, slightly longer than other Shorthairs, but not long enough to flow. It should be soft, plush, and sufficiently dense to stand out from the body. There are no ear or toe tufts, and no feathery hairs on the tail.
- Deep chest.
Tail
Short, bushy, and normally carried uncurled at a level below that of the back.
Legs
Short, thick, and sturdy.
Feet
Paws are large and round with rose-coloured pads.
Head- Round and broad, with a snub nose that should have a distinct “break”.
- Rose nose pad.
- Well-developed chin.
- Full cheeks.
Eyes
Large and round, set wide apart; gold in color.
Ears
Small and round-tipped, they are set wide apart and tilt forward slightly.
Facial Characteristics
Blue Tabby Exotic Shorthair
Blue Tabby Exotic ShorthairLike all varieties of the Exotic, the Blue Tabby has a docile nature and habits that are less destructive than many Shorthairs, making it a classic indoor cat.
Picture: Colourpoint Exotic Shorthair Colourpoint Exotic Shorthair
Siamese-type markings, with the points a darker color than the rest of the body, make this variety instantly recognizable. And rounded tip to tail.
Picture: Blue Exotic ShorthairBlue Exotic Shorthair
The distinctive hallmarks of the cobby build, are shown off to perfection by this example of the breed. Although the popularity of the Exotic is mostly still confined to the US, these cats are rapidly gaining fans world-wide. They are said to be especially adaptable to the show ring.
