🐱 Cat · size Small
European shorthair
cat breed originating in Europe
Photo · Wikipedia FR (CC BY-SA)
Weight
2.975–4.025 kg
Size
Small
Lifespan
12–18 ans
Energy
Moyen
Coat
Traditional, colors not allowed: lilac, cinnamon, fawn, and chocolate
Maintenance
Faible
Training
Moyen
The European Shorthair, also called European or Celtic Shorthair, is a cat breed originating from Europe, representing the ennobled form of common European house cats. This role had been held since the early twentieth century by the British Shorthair, although it is more stocky than most common European house cats, until 1983 when the European Shorthair was recognized by the International Feline Federation. The European Shorthair standard emphasizes that it must not resemble any breed and keep t
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he robust and agile character of European house cats. The physical characteristics of the breed are consequently balanced: the size is medium, the morphology presents no exaggerated characteristics, the coat colors are traditional colors. The breed is popular in Scandinavian countries which appreciate its character as a natural breed, never polluted by crosses with other breeds. In the rest of Europe, the European Shorthair is a rare breed, very often confused with the common cat. In the United States and United Kingdom, the breed faces competition from the British Shorthair and American Shorthair and has not been recognized by any federation in these countries.
Profile
At a glance
Energy
Modéré
Trainability
Modéré
Maintenance
Faible
Indicative profile — every animal is an individual.
⚡ Key facts in 30 seconds
L'essentiel
- 1Small size (2.975–4.025 kg), adapts to most homes.
- 2Lifespan: 12 to 18 years on average, depending on hygiene and diet.
- 3Moderate energy — 30 to 60 minutes of exercise daily is sufficient.
- 4Minimal maintenance — little shedding, occasional brushing.
Chapter 1
Getting to know the European shorthair
Our selection
Dry food suited to the European shorthair
Character
Daily temperament
Temperament is primarily a function of their habits and each cat's history. Character traits are not described in the standards and constitute personality traits generally observed in the breed. The European Shorthair is described as an independent cat that does not demand much attention, but knows how to remain affectionate and sociable with both humans and other animals. Its character is balanced, neither too talkative nor too calm. Its qualities as a hunter and climber are highlighted, as well as its hardiness. It is described as intelligent, shrewd with great adaptability. The European Shorthair would be suitable for a family or single person who loves cats with an affectionate and independent character. Furthermore, this cat breed enjoys hunting insects and small animals.
Chapter 2
Daily life
What if you adopted your future companion?
The European shorthair of your dreams may already be waiting in a shelter. Hundreds of european shorthair (and equally wonderful crossbreeds) are looking for a family in France — every adoption starts a new story.
Editorial recommendation — no affiliate links.
Âge
What human age for a european shorthair ?
The calculator is already set to the breed's adult size (espérance de vie 12–18 ans). Drag the slider to see the equivalence and corresponding life stage.
Equivalent human age
28years
Adulte
Most stable period. Monthly weigh-in, annual vet visit, dental care — this determines quality of life in later years.
Method: AAFP/AAHA table: 15 human years in year one, +9 in year two, then +4 per year.
These equivalences are statistical benchmarks drawn from published veterinary tables. Every animal ages at its own pace, depending on genetics, diet and care. This calculator is neither a diagnosis nor veterinary advice.
Health
Health watch
Longevity is estimated at twelve years and more. The European Shorthair is a robust cat that requires little maintenance. Its fur should be brushed once a week. Breeding this breed is easy, the mother taking good care of the kittens.
Alert
To avoid for cat
Our database lists toxic ingredients and problematic additives by species.
- cocoa pasteModerate
- onion piecesModerate
- low-fat cocoa powderModerate
- chilliModerate
Calculator · daily ration
How much to give a european shorthair ?
Estimate based on the veterinary formula RER × DER, adjusted for cat. Adjust according to package recommendations.
Result
47 g
per day · 179 kcal
24 g / repas (2 par jour)
Calculation for food of 380 kcal/100g.
Maintenance
Daily care
Longevity is estimated at twelve years and more. The European Shorthair is a robust cat that requires little maintenance. Its fur should be brushed once a week. Breeding this breed is easy, the mother taking good care of the kittens.
Appears in
European shorthair in our rankings
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Compact, discreet, perfect without a garden.
See the rankingFAQ
Frequently asked questions about European shorthair
Does the European shorthair adapt to apartment living?+
How long does a European shorthair live?+
Does the European shorthair shed much?+
Does the European shorthair tolerate solitude?+
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For more information
Sources & official links
Supplementary documentation on reference sites — breed clubs, encyclopedias, veterinarians.
The right score for your European shorthair.
SokoScan calculates a personalized PawScore based on breed, age, weight and your pet's sensitivities. Free, instant.