Tabby Exotic Shorthair | Striped & Plush-Coated Cat Breed

The Tabby Exotic Shorthair is a charming and affectionate breed known for its unique coat patterns and plush fur. This breed is a short-haired version of the Persian cat but with distinctive tabby markings. Tabby patterns can include classic, mackerel, spotted, and ticked variations, adding to their visual appeal. Their round faces, large expressive eyes, and small ears give them a teddy bear-like appearance. They are known for their calm and affectionate nature, making them ideal companions for families and singles alike. Despite their luxurious look, they have a playful side and enjoy interactive activities with their owners.

Tabby Exotic Shorthair History

The Exotic Shorthair breed was developed in the 1950s after crossing Persians with American Shorthairs. Breeders tried to make a crossbreed between the two with a plush coat which would require minimal grooming. Afterward, other breeds like the Russian Blue and the Burmese were added to enhance the breed’s features. The tabby pattern is widely regarded to be one of the more common variants due to its unique and fresh markings. Tabby Exotic Shorthair cats, or Exotic Tabby, became known to the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) in 1967, and ever since they have been very popular among cat enthusiasts. Now, Exotic Shorthair Tabby remains one of the most popular types of the breed.

Tabby Exotic Shorthair Classification

Tabby Exotic Shorthairs are classified by their purpose and medium.

By Purpose

There are cats that are grown purposefully for companionship and these artisans prove to be vigorously sociable which makes them winning companions. Their calm demeanor makes them ideal lap cats while their playful side ensures they engage well with families. Some Tabby Exotic Shorthairs partake in feline competitions, in which they are awarded for beauty according to costume and physique. Because of their placid and friendly nature, they can also work as therapy cats. Their striking tabby markings make them highly desirable among cat enthusiasts. Whether as show cats or as cherished companions, they add happiness and affection in all households.

By Size

Medium-sized Tabby Exotic Shorthairs tend to resemble shock absorbers owing to their thick muscular physique. Usually, their body weight ranges from 7 to 12 pounds, wherein males are slightly heavier than females. They are proportioned with a broad chest, short legs, and a round body that gives them a compact yet well-proportioned appearance. Unlike some long and lean breeds, they have a more stocky and plush look. Their cuddly appeal is further heightened by their thick fur. Even though their build is stocky, these wonderful cats are remarkably agile and enjoy jubilant activity with their owners.

Famous Silver Tabby Exotic Shorthair

These Tabby Exotic Shorthairs have amazing colors and patterns. Classic Tabby Exotic Shorthair contain strong, swirling patterns that often look like marbling. Mackerel Tabby Exotic Shorthair have stripes that are narrow and vertical. Spotted Tabby Exotic Shorthairs have distinct spots instead of stripes which makes them look more wild. Ticked tabby Exotic Shorthairs, on the other hand, have more subtle patterns with each hair strand featuring multiple colors. However, silver tabby Exotic Shorthairs are the most popular because of the silver-gray fur with dark markings. Brown and red tabby exotic shorthairs also remain fan favorites due to their rich colors.

Considerations When Selecting a Tabby Exotic Shorthair

The following considerations should be kept in mind before buying a Tabby Exotic Shorthair. First, these cats prefer close human contact and should not be left unsupervised for long stretches. Second, their coat requires a sturdy brush to maintain its plush texture. Third, due to their brachycephalic structure, they can be prone to respiratory issues. Fourth, their natural muscular build means that a high-quality diet is essential in preventing obesity. Fifth, their love for play allows them to interact with toys and games. Sixth, the standard of the breeder’s premises determines the quality of the kitten, which is why it is important to choose a bona fide breeder in the first place.

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Costs and Adoption

Bred and especially imported Tabby Exotic Shorthairs are the most prized possessions of the elite and the upper echelons of society. Based on the reputation of the breeder, the prices may swing in the range of $1,500 to $4,500. Added costs would typically be required to be remitted to the breeder with respect to any rare tabby patterns silver or ticked. Health guarantees and ethical treatment of their animals should be an absolute requirement. Due to the high demand of Exotic Shorthairs, many breeders require a waiting list. Adoption is another alternative, especially from some rescue organizations, which may require Exotic Shorthairs to be rehomed.

How to Care for Exotic Shorthair Tabbies

For the well-being of Tabbies, especially Shorthairs, there are multiple responsibilities. First, offer them an indoor setting that is pleasant and soothing in order to keep them calm. Second, remember to provide them with food which is rich in nutrition and provides moderation to their weight. Third, regularly check with the veterinary doctors in order to have an insight into their breathing and health. Fourth, foster playful interactions that guarantee your pet’s physical and mental engagement and exercise. Fifth, keep their faces and eyes clean at all times to ensure they are free from infections and tear stains. Lastly, they require both affection as well as interaction with humans.

Interesting Insights About Exotic Shorthair Tabby

Tabby Exotic Shorthairs have some fascinating traits that are particular to them. For one, their coat pattern is one of the most diverse among all cat breeds, which makes them one of a kind. Their voices are inherently sweet and quiet but tend to prefer to use their eyes and body language. The plush personality of many Tabby Exotic Shorthairs is expressed during sleep, where they take on funny sleeping positions. They have a short, plush, and ultra soft coat that feels like velvet which make them huggable. Due to their low maintenance grooming needs and Persian-like features, they are called “lazy man’s Persian.” They are adored all over the world, because of their energetic and loving personality.

FAQs

Absolutely, they are very caring and warm, and some even say this makes them the ideal pet for families with kids.

Compared to Persian cats, they tend to shed a little less, however some brushing is still necessary to prevent fur from accumulating.

Due to the structure of their face, flat faced cats tend to have breathing problems. This means having regular checkups with a vet is super important.

Conclusion

These tabby Exotic Shorthair cats are amazing because they are beautiful, affectionate, and require very little maintenance. They stand out among the rest of Exotic Shorthairs due to their distinct tabby patterns. Additionally, these cats are very gentle and playful enabling them to bond with their owners, easily adjusting to different family dynamics. For people who love the look of a Persian cat but loathe the upkeep, these cats are a wonderful choice because their plush, short fur needs very little grooming. They are a delightful breed to have as a companion or as a pet intended to win contests. If you need a cute, sociable, and distinct looking cat, the Tabby Exotic Shorthair does not disappoint.