A gray european shorthair young cat getting ready to pounce. Her pupils are dilated in expentance for play.
It’s hard to believe but it’s true: the European Shorthair is a cat breed too. However, not every farm cat of unknown origin is one. This breed has to follow specific standards if considered for breeding purposes.
Considered the prototype of the domestic cat, this breed emerged in continental Europe over many centuries.
This cat has a muscular body with a broad chest and powerful medium-length legs with round paws. From the point of view of the anatomy, the physique is no different to that of a European domestic cat. European Shorthairs are medium-sized to large. Their head is quite large in relation to the body, while the face is round. The forehead and skull are slightly rounded and the cheeks are well developed. One of the few differences between a domestic cat and a European Shorthair is in their pedigree.
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Colour
Single-color European Shorthairs are found in black, white, orange, chocolate and cream. Different tones or white markings are only permitted with the chocolate color. The eyes of a white European Shorthair are orange or blue and the paw pads and muzzle are pink. These are normally adapted to the color of the fur when it comes to European Shorthair cats in different colors, whilst the eyes are orange, gold or copper. With two-tone cats, the colors are clearly separated from one another by patches. No more than half the fur may be white. Tortoiseshell cats are a mix of black and different red tones in the fur. White is not desirable. They can still be found in tabby or speckled patterns.
Boasting a strong character, European Shorthairs are lively and intelligent family cats that show their love to all humans. They should be offered sufficient opportunities to play and do exercise. Hence, cat toys are very well-suited to this breed.
These felines are low-maintenance and their fur does not felt.
Did you know that domestic cats can also be recognised as European Shorthairs if they meet the standard? However, it’s difficult to find a suitable cat by chance on a farm or in an animal shelter.
Are you looking for the best diet for your European Shorthair? Discover our selection of dry or wet food, grain-free food, organic food, BARF or diet food.
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