Asian Shorthair

Shorthair Cats 👁 147 views Updated 2026-10-30

A European-developed breed from Burmese stock, with a glossy short coat in many solid and tabby colours and a warm, sociable temperament.

Overview

The Asian Shorthair is a European-developed breed created from Burmese stock, with a glossy short coat in many solid and tabby colours and a warm, sociable, people-loving temperament. It is the shorthaired member of the Asian group.

History & Origin

Developed in Britain in the 1980s from Burmese lines crossed with Chinchilla/Persian and others, to capture the Burmese type in a wider palette of colours and patterns.

Appearance & Coat

A medium-sized, elegant yet muscular cat with a short, close-lying glossy coat. Colours include self (solid), tabby, tortie and smoke in many shades; the moderate foreign body echoes the Burmese.

Temperament

Asians are outgoing, affectionate and playful, inheriting the Burmese love of people. They are intelligent and enjoy interaction, fitting active family homes.

Care & Grooming

Weekly brushing keeps the sheen. Social and energetic, they appreciate companionship and play.

Health & Lifespan

Lifespan is 12–16 years. Generally healthy, with Burmese-type screening for diabetes in some lines.

Recognition

Recognised by the GCCF and FIFe (as Asian).

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