Whether your cat is a purebred European Shorthair or a European Shorthair mix, learning about their breed can explain a lot about your pet's personality, habits and overall health. Or maybe you're interested in adopting a European Shorthair but want to do a little breed research first — we can help with that, too.
When you think of a house cat, a European Shorthair may be what comes to mind because of their friendly temperament and affectionate personality. This cat breed typically does well in every household because they're highly adaptable and generally low maintenance. Here's what else you need to know.
"The European Shorthair is an adaptable cat that gets along well with other pets and children," Melissa M. Brock, board-certified house call veterinarian, says. "They're playful but not overly active, which makes them a great fit for households with young children."
This cat breed also likes to cuddle on their parent's lap and is known for being affectionate and sweet. It shouldn't surprise you then that European Shorthair cats have a reputation for being highly adaptable and loyal to their pet parents — but they can come off shy around strangers or guests.
"They're also extremely intelligent," Brock says. "They can be trained to use the litter box and walk on a leash."
If you have other cats in your home and are thinking about adding a European Shorthair to the mix, they usually get along great with other cats and even tolerate dogs well — but at their core, they're people-pleasers who strive to make their humans happy.
"European Shorthairs are sociable cats who love to play with other pets in the household," Brock says. "They enjoy being around people and often follow their owners around the house, especially during mealtime."
RELATED: British Shorthair cat breed profile
This cat breed has a round head, stocky build and blue, green or amber eyes. Their coats are shiny, and they're great groomers, so their parents usually only need to brush them once a week. Because of their low-maintenance grooming, these pets are typically great for first-time parents, families and seniors.
A female European Shorthair cat can be medium to large and weigh around 12 pounds when fully grown — a male European Shorthair cat is usually on the larger side, typically weighing in at 15 pounds fully grown. This breed has a long lifespan of around 14 to 20 years. They come in a wide range of colors and can be a solid pattern and color, tabby or multi-colored. Although they're shorthair cats, they're not hypoallergenic.
"European Shorthair cats are known for their good health and longevity," Brock says. "However, some common health problems can affect them."
Some possible health conditions that may arise in these felines include dental disease, bronchitis, pneumonia and urinary tract infections.
The Dig, Fetch by The Dodo’s expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too. Fetch provides the most comprehensive pet insurance and is the only provider recommended by the #1 animal brand in the world, The Dodo.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
Save up to 90% on unexpected vet bills
Use any veterinarian in the U.S. or Canada
Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot
The most comprehensive pet insurance
Photo by Mathilde Langevin on Unsplash
up to 90% of vet bills – covered.
Every 6 seconds, a pet parent gets a $1000+ vet bill. Care for your pet & your wallet with Fetch.
Get your price
