British Longhair

The British Longhair cat is not capricious and is an unproblematic pet for people who prefer peace and quiet. Experienced breeders note that lowlanders are more malleable than their short-haired counterparts. Representatives of the breed feel comfortable alone. However, you should not leave the pet for a long time without its attention.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The British Longhair cat arose as a result of crossing its short-haired relatives with Persians. The original goal of breeders was to expand the range of British colors and increase their size. The first kittens were considered a failed attempt at crossbreeding but later became a new, valuable four-legged breed.

The British Longhair cat is widely known in the UK and beyond. The breed has no official recognition in the world registers. However, this does not prevent it from gaining popularity among fans of furry pets.

Appearance

The British Longhair cat is externally very similar to its short-haired relatives. The obvious difference is the massive hair cover. Representatives of the breed with a round large or medium-sized muzzle. Vibrissae rounded shape marked. The eyes are large; the iris is usually the color of the color. In a cat with a silver or gray hue, the eyes will be a rich green.

The neck is short and slightly thickened. As the cat grows older, it looks as if it does not exist at all. The tips of the ears are slightly rounded. They are of medium size or small, spread out on the sides. Representatives of the breed are stocky, on thick paws. The legs of the British Longhair are of medium length. The tail is thick, rounded at the end. The colors of the cats are the same as those of the British Longhairs. The coat is resilient and dense. There is usually a down on the collar and pant legs.

Character

The British Longhair cat is not capricious and is an unproblematic pet for people who prefer peace and quiet. Experienced breeders note that lowlanders are more malleable than their short-haired counterparts. Representatives of the breed feel comfortable alone. However, you should not leave the pet for a long time without its attention.

British Longhairs are playful, loving to spend time both with humans and alone with toys. As they mature, the phlegmatic trait of these four-legged creatures becomes apparent. Representatives of the breed are condescending to children and other animals. Early socialization of the cat is necessary for it to get along peacefully with a dog. British Longhairs do not like a strong hug; if they are too squeezed, they can scratch or hiss.

Care

Lowlanders are clean cats. It is necessary to change the litter box filler in time and monitor the soiling of water and drinking bowls. For a comfortable life, a British Longhair needs a scratching post; otherwise, it can damage the furniture. It is necessary to take the cat outside to breathe fresh air. If there is a balcony, make a nook for the cat. Be sure to cover it with netting so that the four-legged cat won’t accidentally fall out.

The breed’s hair does not become tangled, but it must be combed out once a week. Molting of the four-legged cat is not seasonal but year-round. In case you notice that there is more hair on the cat, increase the amount of combing.

Clip claws once every two to three weeks on forelegs and once a month on hind legs. Clean the eyes of mucous lumps to prevent infections. Hygiene of the ears is performed as and when dirty.

Education

Lowlanders are hard to re-educate. Helpful habits and good manners must be instilled from an early age. British Longhairs get used to the litter box quickly. Put several cat litter boxes in different rooms because the little kitten may forget where the litter box is.

Do not shout at your pet or raise your hand. British Longhair has a delicate mental organization; you can shake the cat’s psyche. Lowlanders love praise. Give the kitten a treat as encouragement for achievement. It is the best incentive for good behavior.

Common Diseases

The British Longhair is a cat with good immunity. With proper care and housing, life expectancy reaches 20 years. But still, lowlanders are prone to such diseases:

• hepatic polycystic disease;
• obesity;
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Obesity can lead to diabetes, arthritis, and other diseases. The cat’s diet should be carefully monitored.

Nutrition

A British Longhair can be fed dry food, natural food, or a combination. Ready-made mixes have the necessary micronutrients, and a diet of natural food should include:

• fermented milk and dairy products;
• lamb, turkey, or beef;
• by-products;
• eggs.

Milk is necessary only for kittens; adults do not need it. Eggs should preferably be quail eggs, but chicken eggs (yolk only) will do. Cereals and fresh vegetables should be added to the meat. Remember that animal products and by-products must be heat-treated.