Exotics (Exotic Shorthairs, i.e. Shorthair Persians) are sometimes referred to as The Working Person’s Persian or The Persian in PJs because they are in all respects Persians, but with a shorter coat. 

Exotics, in general, have temperaments much like Persians, their longhaired counterpart, which is sweet and easy going. But Exotics tend to be a bit more active, sillier and may often seem more intelligent than Persians. Many Exotics may be reserved until they get to know you. Once they trust you, they’re likely to beg for your affection or find amusing ways to get your attention. 

Because of their shorter coats (actually more medium in length), Exotics are easier to maintain than Persians. However, their coats are thick and plush and they do shed like other cats. Combing and bathing is needed, especially during a shedding cycle. 

When a cat fancier breeds Exotics, long haired kittens can result. This is because the long hair gene is recessive. In most registering associations, the long haired kittens that result from breeding Exotics and Persians are registered and shown as Persians. For many years this wasn’t true for those registered in CFA. These Persians from Exotic parentage were registered as Exotic Longhairs and were not eligible to be shown. However, as of February 2009, Persians born from Exotic parentage are registered as Exotic Longhair but shown in CFA as Persians. 

For more information about Exotics, please be sure to read the Exotic article at the Cat Fanciers Assocation Web Site and see the other links listed at the bottom of this page.