The European Shorthair, a robust and independent cat, an ideal companion.
The European Shorthair, a Shared Heritage
The European Shorthair, also known as the European Domestic Cat, is a cat breed that represents the traditional alley cat of Europe. It is a natural breed, selected over centuries by survival of the fittest, rather than by human selective breeding. It is characterized by its robustness, adaptability, and a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. Its silhouette is balanced, neither too massive nor too slender.
This feline is appreciated for its friendly, intelligent, and independent temperament. It is an excellent hunter but also an affectionate companion that adapts well to family life.
Our Feline Specialist's Advice
By the CatName.com team, published on October 15, 2025.
My personal tip : The European Shorthair's short, dense coat is easy to maintain; weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hairs. This is an intelligent and curious cat that needs mental and physical stimulation. Offer toys, opportunities to climb and explore, and regular play sessions. Although independent, it appreciates the company of its family. It is generally robust and has good overall health, but regular veterinary visits are essential for its well-being.
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Identifying the European Shorthair: Characteristics of the Common Cat
The diversity of colors and patterns is one of the beauties of the European Shorthair.
The European Shorthair is a medium to large-sized cat, with a powerful, muscular, and compact body. Its appearance is harmonious and balanced.
Size: Medium to large-sized cat, with a robust and muscular, well-proportioned body.
Coat: Short, dense, close-lying, and glossy, weatherproof. All colors and patterns are accepted, including tabbies, solids, bi-colors, and tri-colors.
Head: Round and broad, with full cheeks and a straight nose.
Eyes: Large, round, well-spaced, expressive. Eye color harmonizes with coat color (green, amber, blue).
Ears: Medium-sized, broad at the base, slightly rounded at the tips, well-spaced.
Tail: Medium-long, thick at the base and tapering slightly, carried straight.
Dimensions and Key Information (European Shorthair)
Characteristic
Male
Female
Average
Size (at shoulder)
25 – 35 cm
20 – 30 cm
20 – 35 cm
Weight
4 – 7 kg
3 – 5 kg
3 – 7 kg
Life Expectancy
15 – 20 years
15 – 20 years
15 – 20 years
Diet
Strict carnivore
Strict carnivore
High-quality kibble and wet food
Litter Size (kittens)
-
Variable
Generally 3-6
These figures indicate that the European Shorthair is a medium to large-sized cat, known for its long life expectancy, and its growth is completed around 1 year of age.
Behavior: Friendly, Independent, and Adaptable
The European Shorthair, often simply called "European," is a cat breed known for its balanced temperament, intelligence, and great adaptability. Descended from natural domestic cats in Europe, it is robust, healthy, and possesses a friendly personality that makes it an excellent companion. It is an independent cat that values its freedom but is also very affectionate towards its family.
European Shorthairs are born hunters, endowed with great curiosity and keen intelligence. They love games that simulate hunting and interactive toys, retaining their playful spirit throughout their lives. They adapt easily to different environments, whether apartment living or having outdoor access, and generally get along well with respectful children and other pets. Their composed temperament and great adaptability make them similar to the American Shorthair, with whom they share many character traits.
Their short, dense coat is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional brushing. If you are drawn to a balanced, intelligent, and loyal cat, the European Shorthair is an excellent choice. For those who appreciate short-haired cats with a robust appearance, the British Shorthair or the Chartreux are other charming options. If you like short-haired cats with a gentle and affectionate temperament, the Exotic Shorthair or the Burmese also offer wonderful companion qualities in a more compact size.
Origin and History
The history of the European Shorthair is intrinsically linked to that of domestic cats in Europe. Descending from African cats brought to Europe by the Romans thousands of years ago, it is the result of natural selection over centuries, adapting to European climates and environments. It was long considered a simple alley cat, but its standardized type was developed in Sweden in the 1940s, with the aim of preserving the 'true' European domestic cat.
It was officially recognized as a distinct breed by FIFe in 1982, under the name European Shorthair, to distinguish it from the British Shorthair and the American Shorthair, which have different standards. It represents the very essence of the traditional European domestic cat, resilient, independent, and charming.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the European Shorthair
What is the difference between the European Shorthair and a common domestic cat?
The European Shorthair is the purebred and standardized version of the common domestic cat in Europe. It has a pedigree and meets specific criteria defined by feline associations, unlike a mixed-breed domestic cat.
What is the temperament of the European Shorthair?
It is an intelligent, friendly, independent yet affectionate cat. It is known for its adaptability, patience, and good hunting instinct. It is an excellent family companion.
Does the European Shorthair have specific health problems?
Being a natural breed developed through natural selection, the European Shorthair is generally very robust and has few genetic predispositions to specific diseases. It is a healthy breed.
Can the European Shorthair live in an apartment?
Yes, the European Shorthair is adaptable and can live in an apartment provided it receives enough mental and physical stimulation, attention, and play. Safe outdoor access is always a plus for its hunting instinct.
What grooming does the European Shorthair's coat need?
Its short, dense coat is very easy to maintain. Weekly brushing is sufficient to remove loose hairs and maintain its shiny and healthy appearance.
