Question 1

What is a British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

The British Shorthair is a sturdy, round-faced cat with a dense, plush coat and a calm, easygoing nature. It is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world and is loved as a relaxed family companion.

Question 2

Where does the British Shorthair come from?

Accepted Answer

The breed developed in Britain from domestic cats and was later refined by breeders into the compact, cobby type seen today. After the world wars, careful breeding helped secure the breed’s future.

Question 3

What do British Shorthairs look like?

Accepted Answer

They have a broad chest, thick legs, a round head with full cheeks, and a short, dense coat that stands slightly off the body. Large round eyes give them a sweet, teddy-bear expression.

Question 4

What is the British Shorthair temperament?

Accepted Answer

British Shorthairs are calm, affectionate and easygoing. They enjoy being near their people without demanding constant attention, and they usually adapt well to routine household life.

Question 5

Are British Shorthairs lap cats?

Accepted Answer

Many prefer to sit beside you rather than on you, though individual cats vary. Most enjoy company, a gentle chest scratch and a spot on the sofa next to the family.

Question 6

How long do British Shorthairs live?

Accepted Answer

With good care, a healthy diet and regular vet visits, many British Shorthairs live well into their teens. Keeping them lean and indoors helps protect their long-term health.

Question 7

How big do British Shorthairs get?

Accepted Answer

They are a medium to large breed. Females are usually smaller than males, and adult weights commonly fall between about 7 and 17 pounds depending on sex and build.

Question 8

How long does it take a British Shorthair to fully grow?

Accepted Answer

The breed matures slowly. Most kittens reach their full size and body type at around three to five years, with males taking the longest to fill out.

Question 9

Are British Shorthairs hypoallergenic?

Accepted Answer

No. No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, and British Shorthairs produce the same allergens as other cats. If anyone in your home has allergies, spend time with the breed before committing.

Question 10

Do British Shorthairs shed a lot?

Accepted Answer

They shed moderately, with heavier seasonal shedding in spring and fall. Their short, dense coat is easy to manage with weekly brushing, and more often during shedding season.

Question 11

Are British Shorthairs noisy?

Accepted Answer

No. They are generally quiet cats with soft voices that they use to say hello or ask for dinner. Most are not demanding or vocal.

Question 12

Are British Shorthairs good with children?

Accepted Answer

Yes, they are usually patient and tolerant, which makes them a good match for families. Teach children to handle a kitten gently and to respect the cat’s space, especially as they are not fond of being carried.

Question 13

Are British Shorthairs good with dogs and other cats?

Accepted Answer

Most get along well with calm dogs and other cats when introductions are slow and supervised. Their relaxed personalities help, but every cat is an individual.

Question 14

Are British Shorthairs good apartment cats?

Accepted Answer

Yes. They are moderately active, quiet and content indoors, which suits apartments and condos well. Provide a scratching post, a window perch and daily play.

Question 15

Can a British Shorthair be left alone during the day?

Accepted Answer

Most adults cope well with a normal workday, as the breed is known for being independent. Give them food, water, a clean litter box and toys, and plan quality time when you return.

Question 16

Are British Shorthairs easy to train?

Accepted Answer

They are intelligent and can learn routines, simple tricks and litter box habits with patience. Short sessions and food rewards work better than correction.

Question 17

Do British Shorthairs need a lot of exercise?

Accepted Answer

They need less than very active breeds, but daily play prevents weight gain. Aim for a couple of short play sessions with wand toys, puzzle feeders and climbing options.

Question 18

How often should I groom my British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

Brush once a week, and more often in spring and fall when they shed. A soft brush or rubber grooming glove keeps the coat dense and reduces loose hair around the house.

Question 19

How often should I bathe a British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

Rarely. Healthy cats keep themselves clean, so a bath is only needed if the coat gets dirty or your vet advises one. Always use a cat-safe shampoo.

Question 20

Do British Shorthairs need dental care?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Dental disease is common in cats of every breed. Ask your vet about brushing with cat toothpaste, dental treats and regular checkups.

Question 21

What should I feed a British Shorthair kitten?

Accepted Answer

Feed a high-quality kitten food that is complete and balanced for growth, with plenty of fresh water. Follow the portion guide on the package and your vet’s advice, and change foods gradually.

Question 22

How do I keep an adult British Shorthair from becoming overweight?

Accepted Answer

Measure meals, limit treats and schedule daily play. Because the breed is stocky and can gain weight easily, check body condition with your vet at each visit.

Question 23

Should a British Shorthair live indoors or outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Indoors is safest. Indoor cats avoid traffic, parasites and fights, and generally live longer. A secure window perch, a catio or harness walks can provide outdoor enrichment.

Question 24

What supplies do I need before my kitten comes home?

Accepted Answer

Prepare a litter box and litter, food and water bowls, kitten food, a scratching post, toys, a bed, a carrier and a brush. Kitten-proof your home by hiding cords and removing toxic plants.

Question 25

Are British Shorthairs a healthy breed?

Accepted Answer

They are generally robust, but like all breeds they can have inherited conditions. Choose a breeder who health-tests parent cats and be open with your vet about family history.

Question 26

What is HCM and does it affect British Shorthairs?

Accepted Answer

HCM, or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, is a heart condition that can affect many cat breeds, including British Shorthairs. Responsible breeders screen breeding cats, and your vet can advise on monitoring.

Question 27

What is PKD in cats?

Accepted Answer

PKD, or polycystic kidney disease, is an inherited condition that causes kidney cysts. A DNA test is available, and breeders of related breeds commonly screen for it.

Question 28

What blood types do British Shorthairs have?

Accepted Answer

Most cats are type A, but type B appears more often in British Shorthairs than in many other breeds. Knowing your cat’s blood type matters for transfusions and some breeding decisions, so ask your vet.

Question 29

How often should my kitten see a vet?

Accepted Answer

Book a first checkup within a few days of bringing your kitten home, then follow your vet’s schedule for boosters and parasite prevention. After that, adults generally need a yearly exam.

Question 30

When should I spay or neuter my British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

Many vets recommend spaying or neutering at around five to six months, though timing varies. Ask your vet what is right for your kitten.

Question 31

Do LaziBlues kittens go home vaccinated?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every LaziBlues kitten goes home vaccinated and dewormed, with a veterinary health certificate and a written contract.

Question 32

What should I do if my kitten seems unwell after coming home?

Accepted Answer

Call your vet promptly, since kittens can decline quickly. Let us know as well, as we are always a message away for the life of your cat.

Question 33

What colors do you breed at LaziBlues?

Accepted Answer

We primarily raise blue, lilac and seal point British Shorthairs, with the occasional other color. Tell us the coat you are hoping for and we will let you know when it is on the way.

Question 34

What is a blue British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

Blue is the signature British Shorthair coat, an even slate-gray from root to tip. Blue British Shorthairs usually have copper or golden eyes and a dense, plush coat.

Question 35

What is a lilac British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

Lilac is a soft, pinkish-gray with a warm, pearly glow, lighter than blue. It is a rarer coat, typically paired with copper eyes.

Question 36

What is a seal point British Shorthair?

Accepted Answer

A seal point has a cream body shading to deep brown points on the face, ears, legs and tail. Colorpoint British Shorthairs have blue eyes.

Question 37

Do kitten coat colors change as they grow?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Blue kittens may show faint tabby markings that fade, and pointed kittens are born pale and darken slowly as they mature.

Question 38

What eye colors do British Shorthairs have?

Accepted Answer

Blue and lilac British Shorthairs usually have copper or golden eyes, while colorpoints such as seal point have blue eyes.

Question 39

Are your cats registered?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our cats are registered with CFA, TICA and ACFA.

Question 40

Where is LaziBlues located?

Accepted Answer

We are a home cattery in Westchester County, New York, and we welcome families from Westchester and New York City. Visits are by appointment.

Question 41

Do you raise your kittens at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. LaziBlues is a small home cattery, and our kittens grow up underfoot with gentle daily handling and the sounds and people of family life.

Question 42

Do you have champion lines?

Accepted Answer

Our cats descend from Grand Champion and European Champion lines, including imported cats.

Question 43

How do I reserve a kitten?

Accepted Answer

Contact us, tell us about your family, and join our waitlist. A deposit holds your place for an upcoming litter.

Question 44

Do you have a waitlist?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We welcome families to our waitlist for upcoming British Shorthair litters. Contact us to join.

Question 45

Do you have kittens available now?

Accepted Answer

Availability changes with each litter. Contact us to ask what is coming and to join the waitlist, and we will reply personally.

Question 46

How much does a British Shorthair kitten cost?

Accepted Answer

Pricing is shared directly when you contact us, as it depends on the kitten and litter. Reach out and we will gladly walk you through everything.

Question 47

How much is the deposit?

Accepted Answer

We will explain the deposit when you contact us. It holds your place for an upcoming litter and is part of the signed contract.

Question 48

What age do kittens go home?

Accepted Answer

Kittens usually go home at around twelve to sixteen weeks, once they are fully ready.

Question 49

Do you provide a written contract?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every kitten goes home with a written contract and a veterinary health certificate.

Question 50

Can I visit the cattery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, by appointment. We are a home cattery, so please contact us to arrange a time.

Question 51

Can I choose a specific kitten?

Accepted Answer

We get to know your family and match you with the kitten whose personality fits your home. Tell us what you are hoping for and we will take it into account.

Question 52

Can I request a specific color?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Let us know whether you prefer blue, seal point or lilac, and we will tell you when that coat is expected. Every litter is different.

Question 53

Do you serve New York City?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are in Westchester County and welcome families from across Westchester and New York City.

Question 54

What do you ask of families who apply?

Accepted Answer

We like to know about your home, your household, any other pets and your experience with cats. This helps us find the right kitten for you.

Question 55

What if I can no longer keep my cat?

Accepted Answer

We ask that your cat come back to us. Every LaziBlues cat has a home for life.

Question 56

Do you ship kittens?

Accepted Answer

Please contact us if you live outside the New York area, and we will tell you what we can arrange.

Question 57

What should I ask a breeder before buying a kitten?

Accepted Answer

Ask about the parents’ health testing, where kittens are raised, vaccinations, the contract and what support the breeder offers afterward. A good breeder welcomes questions.

Question 58

How can I tell a reputable breeder from a kitten mill?

Accepted Answer

A reputable breeder raises few litters, lets you see where kittens are raised, shares health information and asks you questions too. Be wary of constant availability and pressure to pay quickly.

Question 59

Why choose a cattery over a pet store?

Accepted Answer

A small cattery knows each kitten’s parents, health and personality, and supports you afterward. Kittens raised at home are better socialized than animals raised in a store.

Question 60

Is it better to get two kittens?

Accepted Answer

Two kittens can keep each other company and burn off energy together. If you are home most of the day, one kitten can do well with plenty of attention.

Question 61

How do I introduce a new kitten to my other pets?

Accepted Answer

Start with a separate room, swap bedding for scent, then allow short supervised meetings. Go slowly and reward calm behavior.

Question 62

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Call 914-421-0505 or email info@laziblues.com and tell us about your home and the coat you hope for. We reply personally.

Question 63

Why are British Shorthairs called teddy bear cats?

Accepted Answer

Their round faces, full cheeks, plush coats and sturdy bodies give them a soft, cuddly look. Their calm, gentle nature adds to the comparison.

Question 64

Do British Shorthairs like to be picked up?

Accepted Answer

Many prefer to keep their paws on the ground and are not fond of being carried for long. They usually show affection by sitting beside you, so let your cat choose when to be held.

Questions, answered

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