Exotic (Exotic Shorthair)
Exotic (Exotic Shorthair): sweet, affectionate, quiet. Persian body and head type with a short, plush coat.
Updated October 15, 2026 · 7 sources · see sources
| Weight | 10–12 lb [1] |
|---|---|
| Height | 10–12 in at the shoulder [1] |
| Lifespan | Typically 8–15+ years [1] |
| Coat | Shorthair (plush) and longhair [2] |
| Look | Persian body and head type with a short, plush coat [2] |
| Personality | Sweet, affectionate, quiet [2] |
| CFA popularity (2025) | No. 4 pedigreed breed [3] |
Activity and exercise
CFA says some consider them a bit more active and playful than Persians. [2]
Grooming
CFA says Exotics shed more seasonally than Persians; weekly combing is usually enough for most of the year, with extra during shedding season. [2]
Health issues to budget for
PetMD's vet-reviewed breed guide lists these conditions to know about: Hydrocephalus, Brachycephalic airway syndrome, Polycystic kidney disease, Obesity. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Routine vet visit, any cat (owner bills) | $190–$525 | [4] |
| Yearly cost of a cat, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,149 | [5] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, cat (US 2025) | $435/year | [6] |
| Cat kidney disease (CKD) care | $600–$3,500 total | [7] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for cats in general or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The breed began in the 1950s when West Coast Persian breeders crossed their cats with American Shorthairs. [2]
- CFA established the Exotic as a breed in 1966. The word “Shorthair” caused confusion and was later dropped, so CFA now calls it simply the Exotic. [2]
- PetMD says its easy-care coat earned it the nickname “the lazy man's Persian.” [1]
- PetMD warns that in flat-faced breeds like this one, even a few extra pounds can raise the risk of breathing problems. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ People who love the Persian look but want less grooming
- ✅ Quiet homes: CFA says they're devoted but not intrusive and can settle into a new home at any age
Common questions
How long do Exotic cats live?
PetMD's vet-reviewed guide gives a lifespan of typically 8–15 years.
How big does a Exotic get?
PetMD lists a weight of 10–12 lb.
More cat breeds
Sources
- PetMD – Exotic cat breed health and care (vet-reviewed)
- CFA – Exotic breed profile
- CFA – Most Popular Breeds for 2025
- VetReceipt – Cat Routine Vet Visit Cost (owner bills, 2026)
- ASPCA – Cutting Pet Care Costs (2021 table)
- NAPHIA – State of the Industry 2026 report highlights (2025 premiums)
- VetReceipt – Cat Kidney Disease (CKD) Treatment Cost (owner bills, 2026)