How to Care for a Short-Haired Persian Cat

Short-haired Persian cats, also called "Exotic Shorthairs," are known by their large, round eyes set wide apart, lively disposition and fluffy fur -- giving the face and body a round appearance. While long-haired Persian cats require a lot of grooming, short-haired Persians are a lot like other house cats in regard to their care, with a few exceptions. Going the extra mile in caring for the cat will ensure a healthy life for your feline companion.

Things You'll Need

  • Metal long-tooth comb
  • Mild shampoo
  • Hair dryer
  • Cat toothpaste
  • Soft-bristle toothbrush
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Instructions

  1. Fur Care

    • 1

      Brush your short-haired Persian weekly with a metal long-tooth comb. Though short-haired, it can get matted fur on the belly, behind the ears, and under the arms and tail if not taken care of properly.

    • 2

      Bathe the cat often while it is still young, to get it used to the process. Otherwise, bathe as needed with a mild shampoo. After bathing, dry using a hair dryer, and brush the fur again.

    • 3

      Check and clean the ears, and gently wipe away any goop from the eyes. Examine the eyes for squinting or injury, and be sure there are no tear duct problems, which can occur due to the Persian's short nose. Clip the cat's claws, being careful not to clip too far back.

    Additional Care

    • 4

      Feed your short-haired Persian a high-quality dry cat food, not "people" food. Supply fresh water at all times. Because the cat can develop hairballs, regular brushing and hairball formula treats are recommended.

    • 5

      Brush the cat's teeth daily, using cat toothpaste and a soft bristle brush. Because it is subject to the same medical concerns as the long-haired Persian, an asymmetrical jaw can cause biting and eating issues later in life. Dental care is paramount to help offset this.

    • 6

      Take the cat to the vet at least once a year. The Persian cat can develop sinus problems, tear duct issues and eye problems, so veterinary care is necessary.