Personality

The British Shorthair – or the “Brit,” as it is sometimes affectionately called - is an easygoing, intelligent, friendly breed. It has been described as being placid, patient and predictable. The British Shorthair’s sweet and gentle nature makes them wonderful, steadfast companions and undemanding family members. They adapt easily to apartment, farm, city or estate living. These are not noisy or pushy cats, although they greatly appreciate and accept affection when it is offered to them.

Activity Level

Unlike other cat breeds known for being attention-seeking or high-strung, the docile British Shorthair is known for its calmness and stability. They certainly can be energetic, lively and playful, but normally they are not aggressive, assertive or intrusive. The British Shorthair is not an especially graceful, elegant, acrobatic or swift breed. However, it more than makes up for lacking these qualities by bringing so many other wonderful attributes to its household.

Behavioral Traits

Today’s purebred British Shorthairs retain many of the traits of their streetwise non-pedigreed ancestors. They have great endurance and keen hunting abilities. They are highly intelligent, steady, trainable cats, making them favorites among animal trainers. Because of these characteristics, British Shorthairs have been used in a number of films, television shows and commercial advertisements over the years. British Shorthairs are not ones to spend most of their days cat-napping on cushions. Most of them have an independent streak and enjoy their freedom.