European shorthaired cat (Celtic cat)

The European Shorthair cat breed, commonly referred to as the Celtic cat, has a long history in Europe. Cat lovers love it for its independent nature and natural, robust appearance. These cats are frequently regarded as the perfect example of what a traditional domestic cat ought to be like—strong, nimble, and adaptable to various settings.

This breed is unique in that it is highly adaptive. The European Shorthair settles in anywhere, whether it’s an apartment in the city or a house in the country. Its low-maintenance short, dense coat and friendly, yet independent nature make it a great companion for both individuals and families.

History of origin

For centuries, European shorthaired cats have resided in Europe. They were ordinary yard animals that lived mostly on farms and were respected for their hunting skills. They were also independent and unaffected by humans. European shorthairs are thought to be direct descendants of the African wild steppe cat, just like the majority of contemporary breeds. Once domesticated, they made their home in northern Europe during the Roman Empire.

As felinology advanced, a large number of breeders as well as casual enthusiasts started searching for suitable breeding stock to establish new breeds. Breeders in England, Denmark, France, Germany, Sweden, and other nations discovered in the 19th century that a large number of short-haired farm cats, as they were then called, shared a similar type and temperament.

It is difficult to determine who was the first nowadays because efforts to create a new breed started quickly and actively in multiple directions. European shorthaired cats were referred to as domestic in Sweden, Celtic in France and Germany, and outright rejected by the British as their original breed. They obtained British cats by crossing Persian, Chartreux, and other breeds’ blood. American breeders chose a similar course and developed the American Shorthair, an indigenous breed.

It took a long time for European enthusiasts to fight for the breed’s recognition, and only in 1982 was a standard created for it. The European Shorthair received the champion title and formal recognition from FIFE. The WCF commission members did not disregard these cats; instead, they registered the breed under the Celtic cat name.

A review of the European Shorthair cat breed, also known as the Celtic cat:

Breed description

Now let’s discuss the European Shorthair cat breed, also known as the Celtic cat. They weigh between 4 and 8 kg and are medium to large in size, with well-developed muscles and a robust build. There is a clear expression of sexual dimorphism: females are marginally smaller than males.

Head and muzzle

The head is broad and round, with a length that is marginally longer than a width. The nose is straight and medium in length. There is a moderate transition from the forehead to the nose when seen from the side. The medium-sized ears are spaced fairly widely apart from one another; they may have tassels and are broad at the base and slightly rounded at the tips. Since the ears are positioned nearly vertically, their height should roughly match the shell’s widest point.

Round, wide-open eyes spaced far apart at a slight slant are present. Iris color can be any color as long as it complements the coat color. The medium-length, powerful, and evenly tapering limbs end in dense, round paws. The tail taper to a rounded tip and is not overly long or wide at the base.

Body, paws, tail

The body is medium in size, flexible and muscular. The chest has a rounded shape and is well developed. Medium-length, robust, and proportionate to the body, the limbs taper to dense, round paws. The tail has a normal length and is broad at the base.

Coat and colors

The coat has a well-developed undercoat and is short, shiny, extremely thick, and dense. Colors can be very different, natural ones are preferable, the following are not allowed: chocolate, cinnamon, lilac and fawn (even in cases where the color is part of a combination: tabby, tricolor, bicolor) and acromelanic color.

Any indication that the European cat has crossed with another breed is seen as a drawback. Purebred domestic cats are meant to have their natural breed characteristics intact.

Character

The European Shorthair cat respects privacy and is a reasonably independent animal. You won’t be able to push communication on it very likely. Although the cat is devoted to its owner, it won’t show it off by giving frequent cuddles or accompanying her around the apartment while waving its tail. It will only accept affection when it wants it and from members of its family that it can trust. It will likely prefer to retire to a quiet, secluded place. It will likely greet guest visits with calm, not only because it does not recognize strangers but also because it does not act aggressively.

Celtic kittens are highly energetic and need more care; they become bored when left alone and frequently find amusement for themselves that they may not enjoy sharing with their owners. Cats do not need much attention as they get older, become more reasonable and calm, and can be left alone for extended periods of time without any problems. However, they retain their curiosity and can occasionally act playful, much like kittens. Although these cats get along well with kids, they don’t show it when they play games together; instead, the European prefers to keep a safe distance.

Celtic cats are highly intelligent and have robust nervous systems. They are gregarious, peaceful, and get along well with both dogs and other cats. However, living with small animals can be risky because they can always find food in the form of rodents, birds, or fish.

You can keep a European shorthair cat in an apartment, but in view of its character and needs, the ideal place would be a private house with free access to the street. In the house, they very rarely create problems, neat, clean, quickly adapt to the routine of family life. The Celtic cat will be a great pet for people who agree to be on equal terms with the animal, as well as for those who are busy at work for a long time, but want a fluffy loving creature to greet them at home. The European cat will not suffer unnecessarily in solitude and certainly will not do mischief out of boredom or melancholy.

The European cat doesn’t require any particular care. Because of its short fur, which does not easily tangle, the owner only needs to comb it occasionally to get rid of fallen hairs, which makes cleaning the house easier. Cats are quite adept at taking care of their own fur coats.

A full bathroom is only required prior to an exhibition or as a last resort. The cat’s ears and eyes are cleaned as needed. Its teeth’s condition is tracked. It is up to each owner to determine whether or not to cut the claws. While cutting the cat’s claws is convenient if it lives in an apartment, it is best to avoid doing so for the animal’s safety if it goes outside.

Diet

There are no particular dietary requirements for European shorthairs, as they have an indifferent attitude towards food. It ought to be well-balanced and rich in protein, low in fat, and low in carbohydrates. If natural feeding is preferred, then cheese, frozen, or scalded meat should make up 60–70% of the base. The remainder: fruits, vegetables, and porridge in equal proportions. Cats should be fed dairy products and fillet sea fish once a week.

Additionally, you have the option of canned or dry feed, which will make the owner’s life much easier. Preference should be given to ready-made premium or super-premium diet plans. They have all the required vitamins and trace elements, and the proper proportions of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates are present.

For those with short hair in Europe, the following feeds are recommended:

• Hills Feline Adult Chiken/ Tuna/ Rabbit/ Lamb – full -fledged feed for adult healthy cats.
• Pronature Holistic Turkey & Cranberries full -fledged balanced food with turkey and cranberry for cats from 1 to 10 years.
• RC Fit – adult feed for active cats without special needs.
• 1 st Choice FINICKY – for adult cats with normal activity, the most attractive formula to taste.
• Bosch Sanabelle Adult Ostrich – food for adult cats with ostrich meat.
• Arden Grange Adult Fresh Chicken& Rice – food for adult cats with fresh chicken and rice.

Health

European shorthaired cats have very good health, which was facilitated by centuries of natural selection. There are no known hereditary illnesses or predispositions to them. However, this does not negate the need to give pets’ health any consideration at all. Preventive vaccinations, treatment against ectoparasites, and two to three annual dewormings are required for cats, particularly if the animal roams freely on the streets and is not afraid to occasionally catch a few mice.

The average lifespan is fourteen years.

Choosing a kitten and price

Selecting a European shorthaired cat kitten needs careful consideration. They are virtually indistinguishable from regular kittens at up to six months of age, and this is something that dishonest people frequently take advantage of. A good cattery will always be a member of a breed club. Cats in these organizations are required to be registered and sold with a metric, a record that the new owner exchanges for a pedigree. You can get information about the registration of parents and infants by getting in touch with the club, should you have any concerns regarding the authenticity or pedigree of the documents.

European shorthaired cats are common in many countries nowadays, but not all of them. Particularly well-liked are Finland, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and several breeders in Minsk and Vitebsk (Belarus) as well as a cattery in Slovenia. In Russia and the other CIS nations, cats of this breed are nonexistent. They were apparently disliked due to their resemblance to regular cats.

Even so, there are plenty of advertisements on the Internet for the sale of Celtic cats; however, most of the time, these are just regular yard kittens, priced between 50 and 100 rubles, that are mistakenly identified as belonging to the breed either out of politeness or for commercial gain.

The European Shorthair, commonly referred to as the Celtic cat, is a lovable and versatile breed that has gained a particular place in many European homes. They are an excellent companion for both individuals and families because of their playful and inquisitive nature mixed with their calm temperament.

These cats, who are well-known for their robust health and ease of care, are affectionate and low-maintenance, providing the ideal mix of companionship and independence. The European Shorthair is a great choice if you’re looking for a pet that likes to lounge indoors or go on outdoor adventures.

European Shorthairs are more appealing because of their unique coat colors and patterns, which make no two of them look exactly alike. In search of a devoted, laid-back feline companion, the European Shorthair is a great option.

The European Shorthair, commonly referred to as the Celtic cat, is a robust, well-built breed that is recognized for its adaptable and laid-back disposition. This cat blends in well with both rural and urban settings. It is well-known for its superior hunting abilities and independent nature. Its short, dense coat keeps it low-maintenance yet loving and devoted to its owners. It just needs occasional brushing. The European Shorthair is a resilient, amiable companion with a long history that is ideal for both families and single people.

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