British Shorthair Rescue & Adoption - A Comprehensive Guide (2024)

So, you’re thinking about rescuing or adopting a British Shorthair? No surprises there, after all, these cats regularly feature as one of the most popular breeds across the globe year after year, and for good reason.

In addition to being absolutely adorable, they’re known for their excellent temperament, with a calm and largely friendly demeanor. The growing popularity of this breed has sent its prices skyrocketing in recent years, even if you choose to adopt, which millions of cat lovers are gladly willing to pay.

However, before you decide to bring one home, there’s a lot you need to know, understand, and prepare for this breed. In this article, we take a comprehensive look at the British Shorthair, its various peculiarities, challenges, and nuances to help you make an informed choice.

British Shorthair Rescue & Adoption - All You Need To Know

One of the most popular breeds in the catverse, British Shorthairs are admired for their dense, plush coats, and round faces. They further come in a variety of colors and variations, with the classic blue-grey, also referred to as British Blue being the most iconic and sought-after variant.

These cats are often laid-back, and easygoing, and are thus perfect companions for those who prefer a more relaxed pet and can’t afford to spend hours each week playing with them or taking care of them.

That being said, adopting or rescuing a British Shorthair isn’t always that simple, or just a matter of picking one up from your local shelter. There are several things to consider, steps to take, and plans to put in place to ensure that your new feline friend has a smooth transition and loves their new home.

In this guide, we help you through the planning process, as well as some tips and tricks that British Shorthair owners swear by, to make this whole process that much easier for you, as well as your new pet.

What You Should Know Before You Rescue A British Shorthair Cat?

Rescuing a British Shorthair is a fantastic choice, but it’s important to be prepared for the responsibility. Here’s what you need to know,

Temperament: As discussed above, British Shorthairs are renowned for their excellent temperament, with their calm and friendly demeanor making them excellent family cats, which can get along well with your children as well as other pets.

However, they do tend to be introverted, more so than other cat breeds, meaning they appreciate their space, love being independent, and don’t like more than a couple of hours of socialization each day.

This makes them great companions for solitary owners, but if you have a noisy household with plenty of kids or regular visits from guests and parties, make sure to have a few measures in place, such as a peaceful corner where your little nugget can retreat for some alone time.
Health Issues: Like all other feline breeds, the British Shorthair comes with its share of health issues to watch out for.

They’re prone to obesity, more than most other breeds, especially if they are adopted, which makes them susceptible to refeeding syndrome, also known as the stray cat eating syndrome, which makes it necessary for owners to be mindful of their diet, at least in the beginning.

Additionally, they can suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (a heart condition) and dental issues.
Grooming: Their dense coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. They’re generally good at grooming themselves, but a weekly brush will help keep their coat in top condition.

This is largely a low-maintenance pet, but that doesn’t amount to no maintenance, and this is pretty much the bare minimum that you are required to do as a pet owner.
Space: While they don’t need a lot of space to run around, they do appreciate a cozy and comfortable environment. They’re not the most active cats, but they do enjoy playtime and interactive toys.

Again, remember that these cats aspire for a bit of privacy and alone time, and their personal space must be respected to keep them healthy and happy. Make sure to cordon off a small area in your office specifically for your cat, where they have their bed, toys, and other essentials in one place.
Veterinary Care: Regular vet visits are essential to keep your British Shorthair healthy. Make sure you’re prepared for the costs of routine check-ups and any potential health issues.

This, of course, can be quite expensive, so make sure to buy health insurance, as in the case of major life-saving surgeries, you wouldn’t want to choose between saving your beloved feline or protecting your savings.

Before you bring one home, ensure you’re ready to commit to their care. These cats can live up to 15-20 years, so it’s a long-term commitment.

Is It Hard To Find A British Shorthair For Adoption?

Finding a British Shorthair for adoption can be a bit of a challenge, mainly because they’re such a popular breed. Many people opt to buy them from breeders, which can reduce the number available in shelters. However, it’s not impossible! Here are some tips to help you in your search:

Check Breed-Specific Rescues: There are rescues dedicated specifically to British Shorthairs. These organizations often have cats looking for homes and are often the first place you should check when looking to adopt and rescue a breed as rare or in-demand as the British Shorthair.
Look At General Shelters: Don’t overlook your local animal shelters. While it might be rare, British Shorthairs do end up there sometimes and may be in need of a new forever home.
Online Resources: Websites like Petfinder or Adopt-a-Pet can be great tools for finding specific breeds in your area. There are plenty more sites that you can refer to, with a few being more specific to your region or the particular breed.
Join Online Communities: Forums and Facebook groups dedicated to cat adoption can also provide leads on where to find a British Shorthair.
Some owners who are looking to give up their pets post on such sites, and you might have to travel to their locations, but in the end, it could all be worth it, since you receive plenty of advice on taking care of the cats, their likes, dislikes and more to help you get started as a cat parent.

The key is to be patient and persistent. These cats are worth the wait, and finding the right one can make the experience even more rewarding.

British Shorthair Kitten Price

Given the demand for this breed, the price for a British Shorthair continues to touch new heights each passing year, and it doesn’t just there because these cats cost just as much for their care, upkeep and maintenance.

Purchase Price: If you’re buying from a breeder, British Shorthair kittens can range from $800 to $2,500, depending on the breeder’s reputation, the kitten’s pedigree, and coat color. For example, Golden Charm Cattery offers healthy, well-socialized British Shorthair kittens within this price range.
Adoption Fees: Adopting from a shelter or rescue is generally much cheaper, typically ranging from $50 to $200. This often includes initial vaccinations and spaying/neutering.
Initial Setup: Prepare to spend on initial supplies like a litter box, scratching post, toys, and food. This can add up to $200 to $500.
Veterinary Costs: Initial vet visits for vaccinations, microchipping, and general health checks can cost around $100 to $300.
Ongoing Expenses: Regular costs like food, litter, and annual vet visits will be around $500 to $1,000 per year.

While the initial cost can be high, the joy and companionship of a British Shorthair are priceless. They’re a wonderful addition to any home, bringing a sense of calm and warmth.

Dealing With Possible Issues

Every cat, including British Shorthairs, can have their quirks and issues. Here’s how to handle some common problems:

Obesity: These cats love their food, so it’s crucial to monitor their diet. Use portion control and opt for high-quality cat food. Regular playtime can help keep them active and prevent weight gain.
Dental Health: British Shorthairs can be prone to dental problems. Regular brushing and dental treats can help maintain their oral health. Annual dental check-ups are also a good idea.
Behavioral Issues: While generally calm, some British Shorthairs can be a bit aloof. Give them space and time to adjust to their new home. Interactive toys and puzzles can keep them mentally stimulated.
Shedding: Their dense coat means they shed quite a bit. Regular brushing will help manage shedding and keep their coat healthy.

Conclusion

Adopting a British Shorthair can be an incredibly rewarding experience. These cats are loving, low-maintenance, and make wonderful companions. While there are challenges, being prepared and understanding their needs can make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

Remember, every cat is unique. Your British Shorthair will have its personality and quirks, and that’s what makes them special.

Whether you’re adopting from a shelter or buying from a breeder, the love and joy they bring to your home are immeasurable. So, if you’re ready to welcome a British Shorthair into your life, take the plunge. You won’t regret it.

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