European Shorthair

CalmAffectionateEasygoingIndependentAdaptable

The European Shorthair is a sturdy, easygoing cat with a calm, affectionate manner. Most are content to be near their people without demanding constant attention, and they tend to adjust well to quiet homes, busy households, and families with considerate children. They generally get along with other cats and gentle dogs, though they can be reserved with strangers at first.

Day to day, they need regular play sessions, a clean litter box, fresh water, and a diet portioned to keep them lean, since their solid build can gain weight easily. Scratching posts, window perches, and a few puzzle toys help keep them engaged when no one is home.

Good for: Families, quiet homes, and first-time cat owners

Size	small
Exercise	about 35 min a day
Shedding	moderate
Origin	Sweden

Before you choose a European Shorthair

They are low-maintenance and forgiving, but they still need daily play and portion control to stay healthy.

Living with a European Shorthair

Exercise

Aim for two or three short play sessions a day, around 10 to 15 minutes each, using wand toys or chasers. Interactive play helps prevent weight gain.

Grooming

Their short, dense coat needs a weekly brushing to remove loose hair and keep it glossy. Bathing is rarely necessary.

Health

The breed is generally healthy, but can be prone to obesity and some inherited heart and kidney conditions. Ask your vet about screening and what routine checkups should include.

Obesity
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Polycystic kidney disease

Known tendencies, not a diagnosis: ask your vet about this breed.

The numbers for a European Shorthair

Feeding, adult

0.75–1 cups a day

About 342 kcal, roughly 6 lb of dry food a month at 9–20 lb (typical for the size). Start here and adjust to the bag and your vet. Portion calculator →

What a year costs

$950–$1,650

Food about $252, plus routine vet care, parasite preventives and gear. US averages; insurance and emergencies on top.

Weather

Watch above 80°F, stop at 90°F

Coat or short walks below 45°F. Indoor cats are fine year-round; for an outdoor cat, bring them in below about 45°F and give shade and water above 85°F.

Right now

Latest cat food recalls

Winfield's CWB Chocolate Bar, packed in clear cello bag with fabric bow on top. Manufactured by CBSL Commissary (DBA Winfield's Chocolate Bar) 9127 Stella Link Rd Houston Texas. Multiple product shapes/sizes: 1) Cat, Net wt. 8oz (226.8g), UPC: 00810079833030, Unit size 5 x 3 1/2 x 2. 2) Teddy Bear, Net wt. 8oz (226.8g), UPC: 00810079833405, Unit size 5 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 2. 3) Easter Bunny, Net wt. 16o
Chocolate Bar Holdings LLC · Apr 27 · Undeclared milk allergen.

Black Coffee Canned Beverage packaged under the following brands and sizes: 1. 41 & Change Coffee Co A Finca / Nicaragua Cold Coffee, 12 oz. UPC 1 97644-95863 4. 2. Alchemy Roast Elixir or Life (Gutemala/Huehuetenango Blend) 12 oz. UPC 8 10149-37056 4. 3. Amavida Coffe Roasters Guatemala Manos Campesinas, 12 oz. UPC 8 10149-37046 5. 4. Appalachia Coffee Nitro Cold Coffee Kentucky Black Gold, 12 oz
Snapchill, LLC · Jun 17 · Potential under-processing.

Fat Cat Purry-Purry Sauce, Net Weight: 5 oz (141g)
United Natural Foods, Inc. · May 25 · Undeclared allergen: Peanuts

All recalls →

Questions owners ask

Do European Shorthairs shed a lot?

They shed moderately year-round, with heavier seasonal shedding in spring and fall. Weekly brushing keeps loose hair under control and reduces hairballs.

Are European Shorthairs good for apartment living?

Yes. They adapt well to apartments as long as they have toys, scratching posts, and window views, plus regular play to stay active.

Are European Shorthairs noisy?

They are generally quiet cats. They may meow to ask for food or attention, but they rarely make excessive noise.