British Shorthair: Size, Lifespan, Health and Care
Quick answer
PDSA, the UK veterinary charity, gives the British Shorthair an average weight of 5 kg and a lifespan of 14-18 years, and lists 2 breed-related health problems: hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, polycystic kidney disease. Estimated cost: £15,800 to £20,100 over a lifetime.
From PDSA, the UK veterinary charity. Not veterinary advice. Worried about your own pet? See who to call.
On this page (7 sections)
Key facts
| Average weight | 5 kg (average) |
|---|---|
| Average lifespan | 14-18 years |
| Activity | Relaxed and fairly inactive |
| Grooming | Daily brushing usually not needed; remove loose hair during moulting |
| Cost | £15,800 to £20,100 over a lifetime (pdsa estimate, essentials and insurance; average purchase price £450) |
Source: PDSA, British Shorthair breed information.
Health problems to watch
PDSA lists these for the breed. A higher risk does not mean every animal will be affected; where a screening scheme or test exists, ask the breeder for the parents' results.
- hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- polycystic kidney disease (genetic test available)
Source: PDSA, British Shorthair breed information.
Activity and grooming
PDSA describes the British Shorthair as relaxed and fairly inactive. Grooming: daily brushing usually not needed; remove loose hair during moulting. Source: PDSA, British Shorthair breed information.
Temperament
PDSA describes the breed as often tolerant of dogs and rabbits, not usually happy with other cats unless raised together; quiet; dislikes being picked up but enjoys a lap. PDSA says a breed's risk of a condition does not mean every cat will develop it; ask the breeder about testing. Source: PDSA, British Shorthair breed information.
Cost
PDSA's figure: £15,800 to £20,100 over a lifetime (PDSA estimate, essentials and insurance; average purchase price £450). These are minimums that leave out buying the animal and vet bills for illness or injury. More: annual cost of owning a cat and kitten first-year costs. Source: PDSA, British Shorthair breed information.
Questions people ask
How long do British Shorthairs live?
PDSA gives an average lifespan of 14-18 years.
What health problems do British Shorthairs have?
PDSA lists hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM); polycystic kidney disease (genetic test available).
How much does a British Shorthair cost?
PDSA's estimate: £15,800 to £20,100 over a lifetime (PDSA estimate, essentials and insurance; average purchase price £450).
Sources
- PDSA, British Shorthair breed information, read 7 November 2026.
Related pages
All breed guides, everything for cat owners, what cats can eat and pet emergency: what to do now.
