Exótico Ou Exotic Shorthair

Health

The Exotic, in general, is healthy, but because it shares its DNA with the Persian, it can develop diseases of hereditary or genetic origin. Polycystic Kidney Disease is one of them and is characterized by causing kidney cysts that, over time, compromise the functioning of the organ. Calcium oxalate urolithiasis affects Exotics mainly around seven years of age and there is a prevalence of the disease in males. We know that the Exotic's snout is flat and that the conformation of its skull is different. These anatomical features affect your respiratory tract, often causing difficulty breathing and exercise intolerance. Some specimens have jaw deformities, leading to periodontal disease and problems with eating and drinking. Pets with a short snout (brachycephalic) also often have eye problems and excessive tearing. Therefore, it is very important that your Exotic has the follow-up of a veterinary doctor and undergoes routine exams.

Curiosities

Comic book star Garfield is speculated to be an Exotic Shorthair. But let's face it, Exotics are much friendlier and less lazy than Garfield. Because it is an adorable and very tame kitten, it is not uncommon for this breed to appear on the big screen in the cinema or in television series. In the movie “Like Cats and Dogs”, the villain Mr. Tinkles, a Persian, has a fellow Exotic race named Calico. The American television series “New Girl” also features an Exotic named Ferguson.

Intelligence

The Exotic is an intelligent and observant kitten. His temperament, as has been said, is calm. But many people report that he is more active than the Persian, so they like to explore the house, play and burn off their energy. Offer environmental enrichment for this kitty, with high places, scratching posts and burrows to hide. They are smart cats that learn tricks and commands easily, just give them a treat.

Temperament

Exotics are extremely affectionate, attached, loving kittens and still get along very well with children and other pets. They also have a fun and playful side, love interactive play and fetching marbles. Their temperament is very similar to that of the Persian, they are loyal and super attached to their human parents. Affectionate, they will get involved in whatever people are doing, asking for affection and attention. They are lap cats, who like to cuddle and show their affection with licks and purrs. With all this attachment, the Exotic shouldn't be left alone for too long and his human parent should interact with him a few hours a day. It is a silent domestic feline that rarely uses its voice.

Lifetime

Exotic life expectancy is 10 to 15 years.