Frequently Asked Questions About British Shorthair and British Longhair Cats
Essential Cat Care Tips and FAQ | Ultimate Guide
Caring for your cat requires a deep understanding of their unique needs and behaviors. In this Cat Care Tips and FAQ guide, we provide all the essential information to ensure your cat remains happy and healthy. From choosing the right food and grooming techniques to understanding their behavior and creating a stress-free environment, we cover everything you need to know. We’re here to help you navigate common challenges and provide expert advice on various aspects of cat care, making sure you feel confident in caring for your feline friend.
This FAQ section answers the most frequently asked questions, such as how to introduce a new kitten to your home, the best practices for litter training, and how to keep your cat engaged and active. We also offer insights on how to recognize signs of health issues early and when to consult a vet. Our goal is to guide you through every step of your cat care journey, ensuring your pet feels safe, loved, and comfortable as they grow and thrive in your home.
Common Questions
We currently breed British Shorthair and Longhair cats with shaded coats. Our most common colours are:
Black Golden Shaded (NY 11) – green eyes
Black Golden Shell (NY 12) – green eyes
Black Golden Ticked (NY 25) – green eyes
Chocolate Golden Shaded (BY 11) – green eyes
Blue Golden Shaded (AY 11) – green eyes
Blue Golden Shell (AY 12) – green eyes
Lilac Golden Shaded (CY 11) – green eyes
Seal Silver Shaded Point (NS 11 33) – blue eyes
Seal Golden Shell Point (NY 12 33) – blue eyes
Majority of younger kittens have baby blue eyes . Pigmentation process takes a while until permanent eye color is set when cats are fully matured.
Adult males usually weigh between 12 and 18 pounds, while females are a bit smaller. Some cats may be outside this range depending on their family line. British Shorthairs grow slowly and keep filling out with muscle until they’re about 4 years old, so they stay in their “growing up” stage longer than most breeds.
Our British Shorthairs and Longhairs come from a long, carefully selected lineage where calm, affectionate, and confident personalities have been passed down from parents and grandparents. We breed with temperament as much in mind as health, so the cats we raise are exactly what most families and pet owners are looking for. They are affectionate without being clingy, happy to be near you and follow you around, but also content to relax on their own when you’re busy. They are gentle and easy-going, making them well-suited for homes with children or other pets.
These cats are playful in short bursts, enjoy interactive toys, and adapt easily to different home environments. They’re independent enough for working owners but still form strong, loyal bonds, often greeting you at the door or settling beside you in the evening. With our proven bloodlines, you can expect a cat that is calm, well-socialized, and consistently carries these traits — just like their parents and grandparents.
All cats with fur shed, as it’s part of their natural process of losing dead or damaged hair. The amount of shedding can vary depending on factors like the season. Interestingly, British Shorthairs tend to shed more than Longhairs, despite having shorter fur. This is because shorthair cats often have denser, thicker coats. In contrast, longhair cats have longer but less dense fur. Regular daily brushing can greatly reduce the amount of fur shed around the home.
Yes. All of our breeding cats are DNA tested through Wisdom Panel™, the world’s most comprehensive cat DNA test that screens for 50+ inherited health conditions and 29+ genetic traits. The results confirm that every cat in our program is clear of major genetic disorders, including PRA-pd, PKD, ALPS, and HCM. They are also tested negative for FIV and FeLV. Each cat receives annual veterinary health exams to ensure optimal health and uphold responsible breeding standards.
Regarding HCM:
All our breeding cats have clear heart scans. We use regular heart ultrasounds (echocardiograms) and breed only from long lines of healthy parents and grandparents.
HCM can sometimes appear later in life. Just like in humans, a cat can have healthy heart checkups for years, but changes may still occur over time due to factors such as weight or lifestyle. While no breeder can promise HCM will never appear (it may develop later in life), these steps help keep the risk as low as possible. We also guide new owners on simple, everyday things that make a big difference keeping your cat at a healthy weight, feeding a balanced diet, and booking regular vet visits. Healthy heart, happy cat.
As ethical breeders, we are deeply committed to raising healthy, well-socialized kittens and placing them in loving, responsible homes. We believe that every kitten deserves a strong start in life, and every family deserves peace of mind. Our health standards reflect the care and integrity behind our breeding program.
Yes. Every kitten from our cattery comes with a written health guarantee. This includes lifetime coverage against death caused by genetic diseases such as PRA-pd, PKD, and ALPS, plus one year of protection for genetic or congenital conditions that have a serious, lasting effect on quality of life. All breeding cats are DNA tested for genetic conditions by trusted, independent laboratories to help ensure healthy litters. We also provide 30-day coverage for FeLV, FIV, and HCM. This time frame follows common veterinary guidance, as it allows enough time for these conditions to become apparent and be diagnosed. This is part of our promise to protect the health of our kittens and to give new owners peace of mind.
British Shorthair and Longhair cats from our breeding lines are somewhat hypoallergenic. Many customers have told us that they are less affected by allergies after adopting our cats. We have not had any complaints about allergies. You can control pet dander by grooming regularly, such as giving baths more often. There are effective ways to reduce or eliminate the risk of allergic reactions.
Both male and female British Shorthairs make equally wonderful companions. In our experience, personality depends far more on the individual cat, their upbringing, and their lineage than on gender. Our breeding program focuses on temperament as much as health, and our cats come from a long line of calm, affectionate, and confident parents and grandparents. This means whether you choose a male or female, you can expect the same loving, well-socialized personality that British Shorthairs and Longhairs are known for. The right match is about finding the kitten whose personality feels right for you, not whether they’re male or female.
Absolutely not. Our cats are free to move around the house. The only time we restrict their movements is if they are ill or when a female is nursing her kittens for their safety and well-being.
Starting at around four weeks old, our kittens are regularly held, petted, and played with to ensure they are well-socialized and comfortable with human contact. For the first two months, they stay with their mother, who teaches them essential skills like litter box use and grooming. Raised in a free-roaming environment, our kittens interact with each other in a special kitten kindergarten, learning how to play gently and handle surprises calmly, which helps them adjust to future encounters with other pets. Daily interactions with our family, including playtime and feeding, help familiarize them with human sights, smells, and touch, making them comfortable with companionship. We also regularly trim their nails to accustom them to being handled, ensuring they grow into friendly, well-adjusted, and confident companions ready for their new homes.
Yes, our cats are registered with TICA (The International Cat Association) and CCA (The Canadian Cat Association) as purebred British Shorthairs and British Longhairs. Each of our cats comes with registration certificates and pedigrees. Additionally, our males are champions recognized by the WCF (World Cat Federation).
About Adoption
We are not open for in-person visits. We operate as a closed cattery, meaning our cats live with us in the same home; we consider them part of our family. Visits are only allowed for picking up your kitten. Nursing mothers are sensitive to disturbances during this time, and changes in scent after visits can cause mothers to reject or stop caring for their kittens. Please note that our mother cats, with their kittens, typically shy away from strangers. This is a natural instinct to protect their offspring. Additionally, since some of our cats are in heat and others are pregnant, they may not be inclined to engage with new people.
In the meantime, we are happy to offer HD photos, 4K videos, and detailed descriptions on each kitten’s profile page. This allows you to clearly see their appearance and get a sense of their personality from the comfort of your home. Most families find this gives them everything they need to feel confident and excited about their choice. We truly appreciate your understanding and support in helping us maintain the safest and healthiest environment for our kittens.
If We Have Available Kittens – Browse our Available Kittens page and contact us through the Kitten Inquiry button for more details. Before submitting an application, we’ll provide you with the final price and answer any questions you may have. Once you’re ready to proceed, we’ll send you the Adoption Application. After completing it, you can submit a $400 non-refundable deposit, which will be deducted from your final payment on pick-up day.
If We Do Not Have Available Kittens or You Want a Specific Color – You’re welcome to join our Waiting List to secure a future kitten that matches your preferences. To join, contact us for details and complete the Waiting List Form. Submitting a $400 non-refundable deposit will hold your spot, and this amount will also be deducted from your final payment on pick-up day. Joining the list ensures you get priority in choosing a kitten before reservations open to the public.
Our adoption fee is determined by several factors, including how closely a kitten meets breed standards, coat quality, eye colour, personality, and overall disposition.
We classify our kittens as pet quality or show quality depending on how well they align with breed standards. Show quality kittens meet or exceed standards in structure, coat, colour, and temperament. They’re rare, often used in shows, and priced higher due to their exceptional traits. Pet quality kittens are still purebred and healthy, but may have minor cosmetic traits that don’t meet show-level criteria.
Prices may vary at our discretion. We also give preference to families adopting two kittens. Occasionally, older or teenage kittens may be available at a discounted rate.
Kitten Pricing:
- Pet Quality Kittens: $2,800 – $3,200
- Show Quality Kittens: $3,200 – $3,600+
- Breeding Rights Pricing: Please contact us directly for more information.
- Retired Studs and Queens: Occasionally available, priced between $1000 – $1500.
1. For Available Kittens:
- Adoption Deposit: A $400 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your chosen kitten. This deposit confirms your commitment to the adoption process and will be deducted from your final payment at pick-up.
- Final Payment: The remaining balance must be paid on pick-up day.
- How to Pay: Deposits should be sent by e-transfer to goldencharmcattery@gmail.com
2. For the Waiting List:
- Waitlist Deposit: A $400 non-refundable deposit is required to join the Waiting List. This deposit reserves your spot and will later be applied toward your adoption deposit when you select a kitten.
- Adoption Deposit & Final Payment: Once a kitten matching your preference becomes available, you will need to pay an additional $400 adoption deposit to reserve the kitten. This deposit will also be deducted from your final payment at pick-up. The remaining balance is due on pick-up day.
- How to Pay: Deposits should be sent by e-transfer to goldencharmcattery@gmail.com.
Kittens are not considered reserved until the required deposit is received.
Our waiting list is ideal for buyers who want to secure a future kitten when we don’t have any currently available or if they are looking for a specific color. Joining the list gives you priority in choosing a kitten before public reservations open.
Joining our waiting list is a simple process:
- Contact Us – Before filling out the application, reach out to us for the final price and any additional details. Prices start at $2000 and vary based on color, coat length, and pet vs. show quality. All kittens are sold under a strict no-breeding policy.
- Complete the Waiting List Form – Select your preferred color and sex.
- Pay the Waiting List Fee – Send an e-transfer of $400 CAD along with your form. This amount will go toward your deposit when you select a kitten but is non-refundable.
- Receive Confirmation – We will email you a confirmation of your selection.
- Kitten Matching – When a kitten that matches your preferences reaches four weeks old, we will send you photos, videos, and details before making it available to the public.
- Reserve Your Kitten – Confirm your choice and place an additional $400 deposit to secure your kitten.
- Pickup Arrangements – Once your kitten is ready to go home, we will coordinate pickup with you.
Kittens are not reserved until the deposit is received.
If you prefer not to join the waiting list, you can keep an eye on our Available Kittens page, which we update regularly.
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We conduct thorough research into the lineage of each cat and match traits to ensure that our kittens have healthy and beautiful genetics. Our focus is on the well-being of every kitten, both mentally and physically, before they go to their new homes. We take pride in our feline family and strive for perfection when it comes to providing for our customers. Each kitten is raised to be friendly and well-socialized, making it easy for them to adapt to their new homes and families, including other cats and people. Our kittens are raised in a loving, family-oriented environment, which ensures that they are affectionate, well-socialized, and confident. They inherit the same characteristics from their parents, being like teddy bears, playful, cuddly, cute, and enjoying being around people.
According to The International Cat Association (TICA), the earliest age a kitten can go to their new home is 12 weeks. However, determining the optimal age involves several factors, such as the kitten’s size, maturity, and whether or not shipping is involved. Additionally, the kitten’s independence from its mother and learned social skills play a significant role in deciding when they’re ready to leave.
Most of our kittens go to their new homes on the earlier side of this spectrum, but here are the general guidelines:
- 10-12 weeks: If the family lives locally, no shipping is involved, the household includes older children or adults (especially if someone works from home), or the family is adopting two kittens together. If the kittens are of average size, they are typically ready to go to their new homes between 10-12 weeks.
- 12-16 weeks: If the kitten will be shipped, is very small, or if the new owner is a single person who works long hours, the timeframe is closer to 12-16 weeks.
Ultimately, the decision depends on the kitten’s development and readiness to thrive in a new environment.
Yes, signing a purchase agreement is required when buying a kitten. This legal document protects both the buyer and the seller. For kittens sold as pets, the agreement includes a spay/neuter clause. The kitten must be spayed/neutered by the age of 6 months, and once you provide veterinary proof of this procedure, we will forward the TICA registration documents for your kitten.
We don’t offer personal delivery at this time. All families are kindly asked to pick up their kitten in person from our cattery in Oakville. This allows us to meet you, complete the paperwork together, and ensure your kitten is comfortably prepared for the transition to their new home.
For families living in another province, you’re welcome to arrange air travel through airlines such as Air Canada or WestJet, or use a pet shipping service of your choice. Kittens can travel once they reach at least 12 weeks of age. We’ll be happy to prepare everything needed for the journey, including an airline-approved pet carrier, required documentation, soft bedding, a water/food tray, and a supply of food.
Our decisions are made in consultation with our experienced veterinarian, who specializes in feline care. While some catteries spay or neuter kittens at a very young age, this can be risky, especially for females, as it is a major surgery, and sadly, some kittens do not survive. Some breeders choose to do this to ensure the buyer does not breed the cat illegally. However, we trust our adoptive families to abide by the terms of our CONTRACT, which clearly states that the kitten must be spayed or neutered by the age of 6 months. Once you provide veterinary proof of this procedure, we will then forward your kitten’s TICA registration documents.
TICA Registration
Official registration with The International Cat Association (TICA) confirming purebred status.FVRCP Vaccinated Up to Date
Protection against Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia.Deworming
Regularly dewormed to ensure your kitten is parasite-free.Lifetime Genetic Diseases Warranty
Coverage for PRA-pd, PKD, ALPS, and other fatal inherited conditions for life.30 Days of Trupanion Health Insurance
Instant coverage for unexpected medical issues starting the day your kitten arrives.Contract & Health Guarantee
A written agreement outlining health guarantees and breeder responsibilities.Health Certificate
A signed and stamped foldable letter inside the Vaccination Booklet, issued by a licensed veterinarian, confirming your kitten’s good health. This letter serves as the kitten’s official health certificate.Vet Checked by a Licensed Veterinarian
A full veterinary exam prior to going home.Socialization Training
Raised in a home environment with early socialization for a smoother transition.Litter Trained
Fully trained to use the litter box before leaving the cattery.Lifetime Consulting
Ongoing breeder support for advice and guidance throughout your kitten’s life.Starter Kit
Includes a one-week supply of food, toys, and essentials to help your kitten settle in comfortably.
Yes, your kitten will already be trained to use a litter box. During their time with their mother, they learn essential skills like eating, cleaning themselves, using the litter box, and scratching on a post.
We schedule professional photoshoots for each litter, and our photographer visits during these sessions. All available photos and videos are uploaded shortly after. We don’t take additional photos or videos between sessions, as this helps us keep the kittens comfortable and stress-free. Each kitten’s profile already includes HD photos, 4K videos, and a detailed description to help families see their look and personality clearly.
After Arriving Home
Shyness and Hiding: Initially, kittens may be shy, nervous, or hide in unfamiliar spaces as they adjust to their new environment. This is completely normal, and it’s important to give them the time and space they need to explore at their own pace.
Curiosity and Exploration: After a day or two, most kittens will start to explore their new surroundings. Owners should closely supervise their movements and ensure the environment is kitten-proofed by removing small objects, harmful plants, and blocking off any dangerous spaces.
Adjustment Time: Every kitten adjusts differently. While some may feel comfortable in just a few days, others may take a week or more to fully settle into their new home. Patience is key during this transition.
If there are other pets in the household, introductions should be done slowly and carefully to ensure a smooth transition.
Kitten-Proofing Your Home:
To keep your new kitten safe, we recommend doing the following before their arrival:
Remove toxic plants (e.g., lilies)
Secure electrical cords and outlets
Store hazardous substances safely (cleaners, medications, etc.)
Keep small objects out of reach (rubber bands, string, etc.)
Ensure toilets and trash cans have closed lids
Block access to dangerous hiding spots like under furniture, behind appliances, or inside laundry machines
Food: Please do not buy food in advance. Your kitten will come with a starter supply of Royal Canin Kitten Dry Food and Canned Food. If you prefer a different brand later, you’re free to switch — just be sure to introduce any dietary changes gradually to avoid upsetting your kitten’s stomach.
Treats (optional): Catit Creamy Lickable Treats are a great choice. You can buy the Mega Mix pack at Costco.
Litter Box and Scoop: Start with a small, open litter box, as it’s easier for kittens to access and less intimidating during training. Clean daily and replace litter regularly to maintain hygiene.
Litter: I recommend using Arm Hammer Clump & Seal Cat Litter with open litter boxes. It helps with easy cleanup and minimizes odours.
Carrier: Choose a stable carrier that can be covered with a blanket. Ensure it’s spacious enough to accommodate your kitten as they grow.
Cat Tree/Scratching Post: British Shorthairs can grow quite sturdy, so make sure the cat tree is stable. Avoid placing small houses at floor level, as your kitten might confuse them for a litter box. A scratching post is also recommended to help your kitten stretch, exercise, and keep their claws healthy while protecting your furniture.
Bowls and Toys: You’ll need a couple of durable bowls and washable toys. Kittens especially enjoy feather toys and small balls. A laser toy is also a fun way for you to interact with your kitten, particularly after a long day.
Grooming: Even though British Shorthairs have manageable fur, regular combing is important. Our kittens are already accustomed to being combed.
Bedding: Provide a few cozy cat beds where your kitten can curl up and feel safe. These will help your kitten relax and feel secure in their new home.
When you first bring your kitten home, we recommend continuing with the same food they are used to here at our cattery: Royal Canin Kitten Dry Food and Canned Food. Keeping them on a familiar diet helps reduce stress and prevents stomach upset or diarrhoea during the transition to their new home.
- Dry Food
Keep Royal Canin Kitten Dry Food available at all times. This allows your kitten to nibble throughout the day, which is important for steady growth and energy. We suggest purchasing from trusted pet stores such as PetSmart or Pet Valu, and avoiding supermarket brands, which often don’t provide the same level of quality nutrition.
- Canned Food
Offer Royal Canin Kitten Canned Food twice a day. Wet food provides added hydration and essential nutrients. Serve it at room temperature and remove any uneaten portions within 20–30 minutes to keep meals fresh and safe.
By combining high-quality dry and canned food, you’ll support your kitten’s healthy development and give them the best start in their new home.
Important Tips
Avoid giving your kitten milk or pork.
Fresh drinking water should always be available.
If your kitten experiences loose stool or diarrhoea during a diet change, monitor them closely. If the issue lasts more than 24 hours, contact your veterinarian.
Stick with the food your kitten is used to from the breeder. If you decide to switch brands later on, do so gradually over 1–2 weeks to prevent digestive upset. Introduce the new food slowly, mixing it with the old food in increasing amounts until the transition is complete.
Cats are naturally clean and usually learn litter habits from their mother, so training at home is often straightforward. Show your kitten where the litter box is and place them in it after meals or when they start sniffing, scratching, or crouching as if they are about to go.
Set the litter box in a quiet, accessible corner where your kitten will not be disturbed. Keep it away from food and water bowls, since cats prefer their toilet area separate from their eating space.
Start with a small, open litter box, as it is easier for kittens to access and less intimidating. Scoop daily and refresh the litter regularly to keep things clean. For best results, we recommend Arm Hammer Clump & Seal Cat Litter, which controls odour and makes cleanup simple.
If your kitten has an accident, gently place them back in the litter box. If needed, confine them to one room with the box until they become consistent.
Why a kitten may avoid the litter box:
- It is not cleaned often enough
- The box is too small or has a cover, closed boxes can feel uncomfortable or trap odours
- Strong-smelling cleaners were used, avoid bleach or Dettol and use cat-safe products instead
- It is too close to food or bedding
- The location feels noisy or unsafe
- The texture of the litter is unfamiliar, switch back to the type they are used to
With a clean, comfortable setup and a little patience, most kittens adjust quickly and use the litter box with no issues.
Yes, kittens have lower immunity compared to adult cats since they are still developing. Over time, as they are exposed to their environment, their immune system becomes stronger. In some cases, this immunity is built through mild viral illnesses, similar to how human babies and toddlers are more susceptible to colds.
Initially, your kitten will need a vet visit within two days of arriving home. After that, follow the vet’s advice for routine check-ups, vaccinations, and health monitoring.
Monitor for any signs of stress, such as loss of appetite or digestive issues, and consult your vet if needed.