British Longhair

Overview

Overview of British Longhair Cat

You may think that the British Longhair cat is simply a British Shorthair cat with a long coat, but that's not true! These kitties have a personality and a look all their own - thanks to the addition of breeds like the Persian. Originating in the UK, these fluffy felines have earned the reputation of being the national cat of the British Isles. Despite only being around for a few generations, they have quickly won over cat lovers in the UK and beyond with their chubby face and plush coat. They are sometimes known as the Britannica in some European countries and the Lowlander in the United States. British Longhairs generally have a more square head, more prominent forehead, and a slightly longer face than their shorthaired, smush-faced counterparts. Of course, the most striking difference is their dense, soft and luxurious coat, which sometimes has a unique texture and wave. The Lowlander’s beautiful coat comes in almost any color but is commonly seen in solid shades of grey, cream or rust. These medium to large muscular kitties (12-18 lbs) can have any coat pattern except pointed or ticked and only require weekly brushing to keep tangles and mats at bay. The British Longhair’s striking beauty and glorious coat definitely stand out against their shorthaired cousins.

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for British Longhair

Polycystic Kidney Disease:

The British Shorthair and the Persian are both prone to polycystic kidney disease so being a descendent of both, the British Longhair may be susceptible to this genetic disease as well. It is a condition where cysts form in the kidneys and if left untreated can lead to kidney failure.

Recommendations for Polycystic Kidney Disease in British Longhair Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for British Longhair

Hairballs:

Because of the British Longhair’s long wavy or curled locks, they are bound to groom frequently. This daily ingestion of hair can cause a buildup in their tummy which they may end up vomiting out as a hairball.

Recommendations for Hairballs in British Longhair Cats:

Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for British Longhair

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM):

Is a heart condition that British Longhairs can be susceptible to. Yearly heart exams are the best way to keep a record and to keep an eye on your kitty’s cardiovascular health.

Recommendations for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) in British Longhair Cats:

Personality

British Longhair cats aka Lowlanders are friendly and social, but are more likely to want to join you near the foot of the bed, or next to you on the couch rather than curl up on your lap. Although they look like fluffy teddy bears, Lowlander kitties don't enjoy being picked up or carried so they may not be the best choice for households with small children. However, they do offer a kind and loving presence, are happy to be stroked, and open to walking on a leash (if trained early on). British Longhairs are undemanding and can entertain themselves so they would be a good choice for a busy person who is worried about leaving their furkiddo home alone. These kitties may not enjoy the company of other kitties so do pay special attention when introducing new feline playmates, though they tend to enjoy the company of dogs, especially mellow ones. Consider adopting a British Longhair if you want a pet that enjoys a little solitude and will never make you feel bad about staying out late or working a long shift!