European Shorthair

The European Shorthair is one of Europe's oldest cat breeds, descending from the continent's early mouse hunters. While not widely bred in their European homeland, they're even more elusive in the U.S.

European Shorthairs are medium-sized, typically weighing 12–15 pounds and standing 9–11 inches tall at the shoulder.

Caring for a European Shorthair

The European Shorthair is also known as the Celtic Shorthair, according to the World Cat Federation. Yet this feline isn't recognized as a breed under either name by cat associations in the United States. 

“In The International Cat Association (TICA), the European Shorthair is recognized as a registration-only breed,” says Gloria Mares, general assistant at TICA. This classification is typically reserved for new breeds still under development.

If you're lucky enough to meet a European Shorthair, they embody all of the best qualities of the domestic cat, according to the Fédération Internationale Féline. Friendly toward people of all ages, playful, and with a knack for keeping their turf rodent-free, European Shorthairs make ideal companions for first-time cat parents.

European Shorthair Health Issues

European Shorthair cats are a natural breed, meaning they developed over time without selective breeding at the hand of humans. This natural development contributes to the long European Shorthair lifespan (15–20 years, longer than the average cat lifespan) and robust health.

While European Shorthairs aren’t prone to breed-specific genetic diseases, they can still develop common feline illnesses, like all cats. Purchasing pet insurance for your European Shorthair kitten can help cover any unexpected veterinary costs as they age.

Dental Disease

If your European Shorthair has bad breath, is drooling or dropping kibble, or is pawing at their mouth, they may have dental disease. 

Dental disease isn’t uncommon in cats: The Cornell Feline Health Center estimates that 50%–90% of cats over 4 years old develop some form of it.

Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for catching dental disease early, before your cat experiences discomfort. During these exams, your vet will examine your cat's teeth and recommend a dental cleaning under anesthesia as needed.

Brushing your European Shorthair's teeth with a cat-specific toothpaste and toothbrush is the best way to keep your cat’s mouth healthy and clean. Veterinarian Ashly Smith, DVM, says you can also incorporate dental treats into your cat's daily rewards.

“Dental treats with certifications like Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approval and a crunchy texture can help improve dental care by reducing plaque and tartar buildup,” Dr. Smith says. A product with VOHC approval means it’s been evaluated by a panel of experts for its effectiveness in reducing plaque and tartar buildup. 

Obesity

Obesity is another common health issue among all cat breeds, including European Shorthairs. It can lead to serious health issues including diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease, ultimately shortening a cat’s lifespan.

Ways to keep your cat within a healthy weight range include:

• Seeing your vet regularly 

• Feeding a complete and balanced diet

• Sticking to a consistent feeding schedule with measured portions 

• Playing with your cat daily

Cat treats can be a valuable tool in training and bonding with your cat, Dr. Smith says. However, it's important to limit treats to 10% or less of your cat's daily calories to avoid weight gain.

“Low-calorie treats like freeze-dried meat can satisfy your cat without adding excess calories to their diet,” she says.  

What To Feed a European Shorthair

European Shorthair cats require complete and balanced commercial cat food.

Look for food that meets the nutritional recommendations set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). You'll know a food meets these standards because cat food brands clearly state on the packaging if the food is "complete and balanced," according to AAFCO guidelines.

Cats should be fed formulas that are appropriate for their life stage: kitten food, adult food, or senior cat food. If you’re unsure which food is best for your cat, ask your vet for a recommendation.

How To Feed a European Shorthair

European Shorthair kittens should be fed several meals a day, if you choose not to free-feed them. As they enter adulthood (around 1 year old), they can have fewer meals.  

However, because European Shorthairs have strong hunting instincts, they typically do well with small, frequent meals throughout the day. Encourage natural hunting behaviors with food puzzles, lick mats, or by rotating food bowl locations.

How Much Should You Feed a European Shorthair Cat?

The feeding guidelines on a cat food bag or can are a helpful starting point for portioning your cat’s meals.

However, because every cat is different and every food has a different caloric density, talking with your veterinarian is the best way to determine how much to feed your cat.

When calculating your pet’s caloric needs, your vet will consider your cat’s:

• Age

• Lifestyle

• Health

• Current weight

• Ideal weight

Nutritional Tips for European Shorthairs

Before adding supplements to your cat’s diet, talk with your veterinarian. Complete and balanced cat food should provide all the essential nutrients they need, but your vet may recommend specific supplements for any health concerns, such as fish oil for joint pain, heart disease, or skin allergies.

Behavior and Training Tips for European Shorthairs

European Shorthair Personality and Temperament

European Shorthairs are generally easygoing in nature and have a friendly temperament. They enjoy the company of people and can even get along well with other animals.

That said, even adaptable cats such as European Shorthairs benefit from early socialization to be their best self.

European Shorthair Behavior

European Shorthairs are natural-born hunters that love to play. They'll happily pounce at feathered wands, stalk fuzzy mice, and scale cat trees.

But these playful felines aren't all action. After a day filled with playtime (or at least two 15-minute interactive play sessions with their humans a day), they'll contentedly curl for an afternoon nap.

As is true for all cats, a bored European Shorthair can resort to unwanted behaviors such as excessive vocalization and scratching the furniture.

European Shorthair Training

Whether it's fetching a favorite toy or learning their name, European Shorthairs enjoy learning new tricks. The key to successful training lies in positive reinforcement: rewarding your cat for good behavior with praise, treats, or play.

Offer your cat a treat immediately after they do the wanted behavior, Dr. Smith says, adding that consistency is key. This technique can also be used to discourage unwanted behaviors, like jumping on countertops. 

Fun Activities for European Shorthair Cats

• Playing fetch

• Sunbathing on a window perch

• Walking on harness and leash

• Birdwatching from a catio

• Puzzle toys

• Being petted

• Cuddling with their human or furry companions

• Playing with children and other pets

European Shorthair Grooming Guide

European Shorthair cats have a sleek, short coat that is relatively low-maintenance. Like most felines, they spend a good portion of their day meticulously cleaning themselves—but they still need regular grooming care from their pet parents. 

Skin Care

European Shorthairs don't typically require special skin care. But if you notice signs of skin irritation (such as red patches, flakiness, or bald spots), schedule a checkup with your vet. 

Coat Care

Though they are moderate shedders, your European Shorthair should be brushed once a week to remove loose fur.

Eye Care

European Shorthair cats have round eyes that are green, amber, or blue. Some may even be born with eyes that are two different colors.

Their eyes don’t typically need special care, but if you spot unusual discharge, swelling, or general irritation, make an appointment with your veterinarian.

Ear Care

European Shorthairs have ears that are rounded at the tips and may be tufted. The breed isn’t generally prone to ear infections, but it can happen.

Call your vet if your cat is pawing at their ears, shaking their head, or you notice a foul smell coming from one or both ears. 

Nail Care

Like all cats, European Shorthairs need their nails trimmed regularly to prevent overgrowth.

Dental Care

Brush your cat’s teeth every day to prevent plaque and tartar from building up and causing dental disease.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Considering adopting or purchasing a European Shorthair? These affectionate and easygoing felines form strong bonds with their families and enjoy human interaction. Their natural hunting instincts translate into a love for games and toys, and they can even get along well with other pets or children when properly introduced.

They’re all-around an ideal housecat and family companion. However, due to their limited breeding in the U.S., finding a European Shorthair breeder might require some effort.

Before welcoming home a European Shorthair, or any cat, ensure you have all the supplies they need for a smooth adjustment. This new kitten checklist should give you a head start.