General Information:

Height/Length: Large/Medium
Weight: 18 – 22 lbs.
Life Span: 12 – 13 years.
Coloring: Variety
Area of Origin: Great Britain
Similar Breeds: British Shorthair, Highlander, Persian

Breed History and Origins:

The British Semi Longhair breed descends from one of the oldest of British breeds, the British Shorthair, and derives most of its history from its shorthaired relative. The British Shorthair’s ancestors originate from the cats brought over to Europe by the Romans in the First Century AD, and were crossed with the native shorthaired European cats that already inhabited the area.

In the 1800s, the British Shorthair began its development as a pedigree breed. After World War I, Shorthair individuals began to be mated with imported longhaired breeds, such as the Turkish Angora. The result of these crossings led to the existence of the longhair gene within the breed, although the longhaired individuals were carried off into the Persian breeding efforts. The shorter coated kittens remained classified as British Shorthairs but the GCCF (Governing Council of the Cat Fancy) only allowed for third generation British Shorthairs with the gene of long hair in their pedigree to be shown.

During the 1940s, in the times of World War II, there was a decline of purebred cats in Europe due to the harsh economic and social environment, so the British Shorthaired individuals that existed at the time were crossed with Persians in efforts to maintain the breed status with round-faced and short hair characteristics. Because of this, longhaired kittens began appearing in the litters that strongly resembled the Angoras and Persians of earlier in the century. These semi long-haired individuals we often unintentionally produced in British catteries but were later intentionally bred, mostly outside of the UK.

Nowadays, fans of the British Semi Longhair will breed their cats to British Shorthairs with the intent of establishing a formal and consistent British Longhair breed. It is curious to note that despite the constant crossing between both breeds, the British and the Persian in both long and short hair varieties are two entirely different breeds these days.

British Semi Longhair cats cannot be shown at GCCF shows since they do not consider them a separate breed but rather as a variant of the British Shorthair. There’s a group in Britain interested in developing the British Semi Longhair as a separate breed, thanks to its recognition by TICA (The International Cat Association) in 2009.

The breed is mostly popular outside of the UK and is also referred to as the Longhair British, the Britannica in Europe, and as the Lowlander in the US and Netherlands.

Size and Physical Characteristics:

The main difference between the British Semi Longhair cats and the Shorthair cats is their coat length. The British Semi Longhair cats are mostly as considered large sized cats but they may also lean towards medium sizes. Despite being large in size, their physical appearance can be described as short, built and stocky. Their frame is sturdy, slightly cobby and stout with short but strong legs. Despite being compact in appearance, their chest is deep but their tail isn’t very long, mostly described as medium to short in length but it is very plush and thick and seems proportionate to the rest of the body. Males of the breed can weigh up to 22lbs, although females usually weigh less.

British Semi Longhair cats have unique and adorable facial features, with large bright eyes, a broad round head with small wide-set ears, and a short but muscular neck. Their cheeks are full and have a short and straight nose that bulges slightly into the forehead. Their chin is firm and well proportioned.

These stylish cats have round eyes and their color varies, depending on their coat. Cats with a colorpoint pattern have blue eyes. The silver and shaded golden cats will have green eyes. Other color and pattern combinations will have a golden, yellow, copper or orange colored eyes, all which contrast and stand out brightly.

The outer layer of their coat is plush, lustrous, and of medium length. This breed is popular for its expansive range of color and pattern varieties. The colors can be white, black, blue, red, cream, chocolate, lilac, cinnamon, fawn, or tortie. The patterns can be self (solid all over), tabby, tortoiseshell, bicolor, smoke, tipped and color-pointed.

Personality and Temperament:

Known for being highly adaptable cats, the British Semi Longhair breed is choice for homes with children or for people who leave the house for long periods of time. They are not impacted when brought to a new environment and have no trouble meeting new people although they will rarely interact with you, being that they’re very independent cats. These autonomous felines don’t mind exploring and minding their own business.

They tend to be very laid back and relaxed and can become quite sedentary, preferring to nap rather than chase after toys. Mostly friendly creatures, they are very tolerant of children and they really enjoy the company of other pets, especially a likewise relaxed dog or cat. Regardless of the amiable and easy-going behavior, children must be instructed to not pick up these cats against their will, because besides not liking it, they are very heavy as well. They often play if interacted with and are very affectionate, but only on their own terms, preferring to choose to sit with their owners rather than being grabbed against their will.

British Semi Longhair cats are esteemed for their personality and intelligence. They can be left alone all day and won’t demand your attention when you get back, but they will lay next to your or on you when you’re relaxing. Kittens tend to be playful but their energy levels decrease as they grow into adulthood. They aren’t destructive cats either, so you don’t have to worry about finding a mess after a long day of work. They’re known to be quiet as well, only gently meowing if they’re hungry and such.

With a combination of laziness and intelligence, it’s recommended to create routines for them along with some moderate training and you’ll pretty much have the perfect indoor cat.

Nutritional and Exercise needs:

Diet is very important for cats for it will determine overall health. A healthy coat, teeth, body weight and energy level will depend almost completely on what they are fed. Cats generally are carnivores, so protein based diets are important for them. The amount fed depends on weight, activity and age. The type of food depends on the owner but make sure to provide quality and enough water if dry kibble is your choice. If their food is canned verify that only a few fillers are added.

British Semi Longhair cats will eat most brands of food. They also enjoy treats and can be fed cooked chicken, ham and cheese. They generally need approximately 70 calories to every Kg of their weight per day. Cow’s milk can upset their stomach, so it’s always better to stick with a clean and full bowl of fresh water every day, located in an easy to reach spot.

British Semi Longhair cats are prone to obesity due to their low activity indoor lifestyle. They are active only a little while during the day and much rather sleep than run and exercise. Because of this their diet must be closely monitored, especially with the neutered individuals.

It’s always good to engage these cats in some type of daily activity to help maintain a healthy body weight and keep muscles strong and lean. This benefits the mind as well, keeping it alert and active. Exercise is also a fun way and a good opportunity for you to bond with your pet.

You may be able to set up an area especially for your cat to climb and play around. Cat trees and scratching posts can also be used for this purpose. Cat jungle gyms can be bought at a local pet store or you could build one yourself! Kittens and younger cats will usually take the initiative to begin playing with you or they will start to entertain themselves. You should try to spend about 10-15 minutes a day with your cat engaged in some type of physical activity.

Grooming and Upkeep:

British Semi Longhair cats have a dense and furry coat that requires regular, if not daily, grooming to keep it in perfect condition. It proper care is not ensured, their coat will become tangled or matted especially in the autumn and winter seasons when their coat becomes fuller to protect them from the cold. It’s also best to comb them thoroughly to prevent shedding, especially when they begin molting on furniture and carpets. A bristle brush is ideal for this purpose.

Occasional brushing also helps stimulate circulation and removes debris. If provided with proper nutrition, occasional grooming, and keeping a small area for shedding, like a pet bed, the shedding will be minimized and manageable.

It’s recommended to bathe them at least a couple of times a month and to trim their nails regularly. An ear cleaner for cats can be used to clean the external ear canal, dipping it in the ear and then rubbing softly. Often brushing of teeth at home with an appropriate pet toothpaste, and scheduling veterinary dental cleanings is sometimes necessary. The earlier you began to brush, trim its nails and brush its teeth, the better your kitten will start to accept these activities when they grow.

Characteristics unique to the breed:

A favorite amongst many, especially outside of the UK, British Semi Longhair cats are loyal to their owners and have quite a personality. If they do not agree with something you do, they will certainly express it but not with loud voices thankfully. They are very discreet and prefer to seek attention when they want it rather than having someone initiate play or affection.

Despite their aloof and independent character, these cats really love dogs and appreciate their company when their owners are away from home.

Health and Wellness:

The British Semi Longhair breed is known to be generally healthy all around. Some common health issues amongst cats may occur, including: Hypertophic Cardiomyopathy, Obesity and Hemophilia B. They may also suffer from their kidneys. Annual exams, vaccinations, heartworm prevention and flea and tick preventions are recommended. Initially make sure to deworm your cat and run basic blood tests as early diagnosis is always the best. Keep in mind that a good diet and regular exercise is always the best prevention. Be sure to consult a veterinarian of your choice for routine care and medical advice for your furry friend.

People with cat allergies should not get close to these cats nor engage in contact with them since they may cause an allergic reaction.

Interesting Facts about the breed:

• Kittens typically sell for between $800 and $1200.
• Known as the Britannica in Europe and as the Lowlander in the US and Netherlands.
• Their coat under the belly tends to curl when it’s really long.
• British Semi Longhair cats are very independent but are also very friendly and loyal.
• They will meow only when they need something.
• Descend from ancient Roman cats.
• Are more appreciated outside of the United Kingdom, ironically.