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If you are considering welcoming a British Shorthair kitten into your home, you've come to the right place. At JK Cats, we are dedicated to providing you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. British Shorthairs are an exceptional breed known for their distinctive looks and charming personalities.
In this guide, you will find answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about British Shorthair cats, covering everything from cost to temperament and care. Read on to discover why these wonderful cats are so popular in the UK and beyond.
One of the first questions potential buyers ask is about the price. The cost of a British Shorthair kitten can vary, depending on factors like lineage and breeder reputation. At JK Cats, all kittens are fully vaccinated, dewormed, and microchipped before leaving the cattery, typically around 13 to 14 weeks old. Every kitten also comes with:
• GCCF registration and a 4-generation pedigree
• 5 weeks of free insurance
• A blanket with the familiar scent of their mother and siblings to ease their transition
Neutering Requirement: All of our kittens must be neutered by six months of age. A veterinary document must be provided to confirm this. Each sale includes a signed contract for the health and well-being of the cat.
Please note that a non-refundable deposit of £260 is required to reserve your kitten, with the full balance payable upon collection.
British Shorthair cats are one of the most popular family cat breeds, especially in the UK. Known for their calm, easy-going nature, they are the ideal companions for families and individuals alike. Here's what you can expect:
• Activity and Fun: While British Shorthairs are not the most active breed, they love having tall scratching posts to climb on and play with. A cat tree around 1.2 meters is perfect for helping them stay fit and entertained.
• Affection: British Shorthairs are affectionate but tend to be more independent than other breeds. They form strong bonds with their owners, but their love must be earned with patience.
• Intelligence: British Shorthairs are highly intelligent cats. They quickly adapt to household routines and recognize familiar sounds, like the jingling of keys or a car engine. Their ability to learn and form connections with their environment makes them fantastic companions.
Diet is an essential part of your British Shorthair cat's health. While opinions on food may differ, it’s crucial to focus on high-quality, nutrient-dense options:
• Raw Meat (BARF Diet): Feeding raw meat three times a week is an excellent option for carnivorous cats. Ensure the meat is frozen for at least three days before feeding to eliminate potential parasites.
• High-Meat Canned Food: For daily meals, high-meat content canned food is recommended.
• Dry Food: Although some frown upon dry food, we offer it as a snack to our cats, ensuring they have access to food even when we are not home.
When you adopt a kitten from JK Cats, you’ll receive a list of the foods we feed them. It’s important to maintain this diet for the first few months before gradually introducing new foods.
Contrary to popular belief, cats do not need milk. Fresh water is all they require. A water fountain can be an excellent choice, as many cats prefer running water. Ensure the water is changed daily for optimal freshness.
When it comes to bowls, choose ceramic or metal options over plastic ones. Since British Shorthairs have flat faces, shallow and wide bowls work best to accommodate their facial structure. These types of bowls are widely available.
At JK Cats, we begin litter box training from four weeks old, so your kitten will already be familiar with using one when they come home. We recommend using a covered litter box to give your cat privacy while also controlling odor and mess. For litter, ecological options like wood or corn can be disposed of in the toilet. However, be sure to use the litter we recommend initially, as changing too many things at once can stress the kitten.
British Shorthair cats are easy to care for, making them perfect for first-time cat owners. Here’s a breakdown of basic care:
Coat care
Even though they are short-haired, British Shorthairs benefit from brushing once or twice a week. Brushing helps remove excess undercoat and is a bonding activity that most cats enjoy.
The eyes
Clean their eyes with a cotton pad if necessary. Some British Shorthairs, especially younger cats, may have watery eyes due to narrower tear ducts. Always consult a vet to ensure it’s not a sign of illness.
Cleaning the ears
Healthy British Shorthairs don’t require much ear cleaning, but if you notice a buildup of wax, use a damp cotton pad or ear wipes.
Trimming nails
Trim your cat’s nails every 2-3 weeks. Only trim the clear part of the nail to avoid injury. Thanks to the systematic shortening of claws, the cat will not have a tendency to scratch the furniture, but remember that a high scratching post, about 1.2 m, is especially important for this breed. Brits love to climb, thanks to which they also dull their claws.
We encounter this question many times, for which there is no clear answer. Both male and female British Shorthair kittens have their own unique qualities. It should be emphasized that after sterilization, none of them is troublesome in everyday life. Each kitten is different and has its own personality. It is worth talking to the breeder before buying to find out about the temperament of a given kitten and its predispositions. A well-socialized toddler, regardless of gender, will be perfect in family life.
Male
Usually, British SH boys are cuddlier and more playful than their little girls. A male cat very often jumps on his lap without a special invitation and adores his owners with a pleasant purr. Male cats are also more resistant to stress and new situations. Adult cats, weigh from 5 to 7 kg, thanks to which they have a very dignified and majestic appearance.
Female
Like every woman, she has her own requirements. Often you have to earn her favours, and the cat's ingratiation comes with time. Of course, this is not a rule and there are girls who demand caress as much as males. As kittens, kitties like to play, although they are often more individual than males. In adulthood, the British female reaches a weight of 4 to 6 kg and although she is not as big as a male, her elegance and grace can charm many, females definitely love their male owners. It's just the way it is in nature.
