Calico Exotic Shorthair | Tri-Colored & Plush-Coated Cat Breed

We love the breed of Calico Exotic Shorthair Shorthair. They’re known for their sweet disposition, plush teddy bear bodies, AND their tri-colored fur coat. Thanks to its dense fur coat that is easy to maintain, Exotic Shorthair don’t seem anything like their overbearing Persian ancestors. If you’re considering bringing home a Calico Exotic Shorthair we are here to help you understand this breed better with a comprehensive guide including its origin, care tips, prevalent color patterns, and some fun facts.

Calico Exotic Shorthair

History of Calico Exotic Shorthair

Trying to make a American (American Shorthair breed with Persian) cat is exactly what led to the creation of the Exotic Shorthair in the 1950s and one of the methods was crossbreeding with Persian cats. Breeders were trying to create a glamour model with short fur and they did it! 

Exotic Shorthair came with a Calico pattern of fur made of patches of white, orange, and black that turned out to be fairly common among women thanks to genetic predisposition of three colors being associated with an X chromosome. Due to their unique look and beautiful friendly demeanor, Calico Exotic Shorthair are one of the most popular coat variations nowadays.

Calico Exotic Shorthair Classification

The classification of the Calico Exotic Shorthair can be done based on the purpose of breeding and size. 

By Purpose

Companion Pets: These cats are bred to be affectionate family pets. Individuals and families will find their calm and loving nature to be wonderful.

Show Cats: Cats featuring the perfect blend of three colors of Calico Exotic Shorthairs are allowed in cat shows. They must abide by stringent rules on coat style, symmetry, and the shape of the face.

By Size

Calico Exotic Shorthairs can be classified as medium sized to small cats.

They weigh between 7 and 12 pounds and have a height between 9 and 11 inches.

They are quite compact but their solid muscular build gives them a plush appearance.

Most Popular Calico Exotic Shorthair Patterns

Patterns and color of the coats can vary and hence not every Calico Exotic Shorthair is the same.

1. Traditional Calico

This pattern comes with a white base that is set with black and orange patches. 

One of the most classic patterns of the Calico variety.

2. Dilute Calico

This variety’s color pattern comes with gray and cream patches instead of the orange and black.

A softer version of the traditional Calico.

3. Chocolate Calico

This variation is where black is replaced by rich chocolate brown making it more voluptuous.

This enables the cat to appear warmer and more luxurious. 

4. Blue cream Calico 

Combination of two patches of blue-gray which are creamish is set on white background. 

This renders the cat to look softer and more fluffy as well as analogous to a cloud. 

Calico Exotic Shorthair

Factors to Choose a Calico Exotic Shorthair Cat 

Always remember these great details regarding the breed while looking for a Calico Exotic Shorthair. 

1. Health Background 

Make sure that when you buy a kitten it has a clean bill of health and is coming from a known bred. 

Exotic Shorthairs may have issues with their breathing because their face structure is brachiocephalic. 

2. Breeder Reputation 

Make sure to note that the breeder has good reputation for following ethics of breeding. 

Request for the medical files including the vaccinations and genetic testing. 

3. Pattern Of The Coat Preferences 

Traditional patterns, Dilute pattern or very high rare Calico exotic shorthairs pattern are the most known. 

4. Personality and Temperament 

Generally, these cats are playful, quiet and affectionate so they are great companions. 

Make sure to watch the kitten’s behavior before adoption for your own benefit. 

5. Grooming And Care Matters 

Even with a short coat, they require grooming in the form of brushing every week to maintain their plush appearance. 

Explore Other Popular Breeds

For Sale 

Petfinder is one suggested site for those interested in buying a Calico Exotic Shorthair cat because this site connects the buyers with reputable breeders and shelters. When making a purchase, be sure the seller, at a minimum, provides the following:

Health Certificates

Vaccination Reports

Documented Evidence Of The Cat’s Lineage

You could also visit nearby adoption shelters and centers since a number of Exotic Shorthairs like the Calicos, need a good home. 

Tips For Responsible Calico Exotic Shorthair Ownership

Owning a Calico Exotic Shorthair cat does require some commitment. Make your pet’s life enjoyable and healthy by following these tips: 

1. Regular Vet Check-ups

Due to having flat faces, these cats commonly have problems with their breathing and eyes. 

To avoid further health complications, always schedule annual check-ups. 

2. Proper Nutrition 

Give them food fit for cats from reputed brands. 

And most importantly, always remember to give them fresh water. 

3. Grooming Needs

Weekly brushing is very beneficial to these cats because it removes excess hair and lots of fur from shedding. 

Even with a trimming coat, these cats have, grooming is an absolute necessity. 

4. Mental And Physical Stimulation

Playing with interactive toys keeps these pets active. 

Even though these cats are lazy by nature, they have energetic play sessions. 

5. Clean Living Environment 

Exotic Shorthairs love soft cushions and quiet corners to sleep and relax, so ensure those are available. 

Give them a cozy area to rest along with cleaning out their litter boxes regularly.

Fun Fact About Calico Exotic Shorthair and Breeds

  • Most of the Calico Exotic Shorthairs are females.
  • Male Calico Exotics are exceptionally uncommon as the coat calico is associated with the X chromosome.
  • These cats are also referred to as the lazy man’s Persians.
  • They have Persian dolls’ faces, but their owners spend much less time grooming them.
  • They are said to bring good luck in many cultures.
  • Calico cats are viewed as emblems of wealth and good luck in Japan and the US. 
  • Calico Exotics are not capable of intentional breeding.
  • The coat coloration is referred to as “random,” thus breeders may not be able to assure a calico kitten in one litter.
  • Most of the Calico Exotic Shorthairs are females.

FAQs

Of course, and they are incredible pets! These kids are sweet, loving and ideal with children. They like being in the company but are also quite self-sufficient.

Not at all, with a weekly combing, this short coat will stay neat and tidy.

They are usually expected to live between 12 to 15 years, if well taken care of.

Conclusion

The Calico Exotic Shorthair is beautiful, loving, and easy to care for, making them a fantastic pet. They are in high demand due to their uniquely shaped face and silky, tri-colored coat. If you want a pet that is friendly, playful, and has a distinct personality, the Calico Exotic Shorthair is a wonderful option.