Exotic cats are not directly related to Persian cats in a genealogical sense. They are a *breed* of cat that was created through selective breeding of Persian cats.
Here's why:
* Exotic Shorthairs were developed in the 1960s by breeding Persians with American Shorthairs. The goal was to create a cat with the sweet temperament and round features of the Persian, but with a shorter, easier-to-groom coat.
* Persian cats have a very long and distinguished history, dating back centuries. They are known for their luxurious, flowing coats and sweet personalities.
So, while Exotic Shorthairs are not directly related to Persians in terms of ancestry, they are closely related in terms of breeding history and appearance. They share many of the same physical characteristics, personality traits, and health concerns.
It's important to remember that the term "exotic cat" can sometimes be used to refer to any cat breed that is not common in a particular area. So, it's always best to clarify what someone means when they use this term.