Golden British Shorthair cats are known for their laid-back nature and striking appearance. They’re large for cats, with some males weighing up to 18 pounds. Though commonly gray, they come in various shades, including the enchanting golden hue.
British Shorthair cats are among the oldest recognized breeds. Their origins are somewhat mysterious, with theories suggesting they descended from Egyptian felines brought to Europe by the Romans during their 43 CE invasion of the British Isles. These cats could also have ancestral ties to British street cats. Initially valued as working cats, they gained the spotlight in the late 1800s when Harrison Weir, the father of modern cat shows, designated them as a distinct breed. One British Shorthair even took part in the first UK cat show back in 1871.
The breed’s journey to prominence was not straightforward. Their popularity waned as highbrow breeds overshadowed them. During the early 20th century, Persian cat genes were introduced to the breed, leading to long-haired variants. World War II posed a threat to their gene pool, prompting breeders to cross British Shorthair cats with Persian, Russian Blue, and Domestic Shorthair cats post-war. The breed made its way to North America in the 1900s and by 2021, it was the 6th most popular breed in the US. They also continue to be a favorite in the UK.
Formal recognition of the British Shorthair was a milestone in the breed’s history. Appearing in the first UK cat show in 1871, they later faced tough times until The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) recognized them in 1979 and 1980, respectively. The breed even earned a spot on a series of UK postage stamps in 2022.
There are some fun facts associated with British Shorthair cats. Lewis Carroll might have drawn inspiration from a British Shorthair for the Cheshire Cat character in his classic, ‘Alice in Wonderland.’ Another British Shorthair, Smokey, set the world record for the loudest purr at a staggering 67.7 dB. Lastly, Brother Cream, a British Shorthair from Hong Kong, became an internet sensation after disappearing from a convenience store and re-emerging three weeks later.
Regarding their temperament, Golden British Shorthair cats are incredibly sweet and easygoing. They thrive around children and other pets because of their patience. They do well in apartments as they don’t require excessive exercise. Their low-maintenance nature makes them perfect for individuals who are away during the day as they handle being alone quite well.
Golden British Shorthair cats are loyal, friendly, and incredibly easygoing. Their rich history and charming nature have made them a beloved breed in both the US and the UK.
