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Brazilian Shorthair Cat Breed Info: Pictures, Temperament & Traits

Written by: Christian Adams

Last Updated on March 18, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

Brazilian Shorthair cat lying on the top of a car

Brazilian Shorthair Cat Breed Info: Pictures, Temperament & Traits

Breed Overview

Height:

12 – 14 inches

Weight:

10 – 22 pounds

Lifespan:

14 – 20 years

Colors:

Black, gray, brown, orange, white

Suitable for:

Apartments, houses, farms, families, multi-pet households

Temperament:

Agile, curious, intelligent, playful, affectionate, attentive

It is said that Portuguese sailors brought cats to Brazil on their ships to keep rodents in check during their voyage. Once arriving in Brazil, these cats took to the streets and lived as feral cats. After some time, the feral cats were bred to create the Brazilian Shorthair that many people throughout the world know and love today.

The Brazilian Shorthair is a medium-sized cat that comes in a variety of different colors, including black, white, orange, and brown. These kitty cats have lean and muscular bodies that make them awesome ratters, so they can do well in a farm setting. However, they can adapt to and enjoy a variety of housing types, whether apartments or large homes.

This is a curious, intelligent cat that does not spend as much time snoozing as many other cat breeds do. They get along well with people of all ages, and they always seem to enjoy being the center of attention. There is so much to know about this interesting cat breed, so we put together this comprehensive guide to share with you. Read on to learn more!

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Brazilian Shorthair Kittens — Before You Welcome One Into Your Family

closeup of an adorable Brazilian Shorthair cat
Image Credit: Wirestock Creators, Shutterstock
Energy
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A high-energy cat needs a lot of physical and mental stimulation to keep healthy and happy, while a low-energy cat needs minimal physical activity, but still needs mental stimulation. When choosing a cat, It’s important to ensure their energy levels match your lifestyle.
Trainability
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Cats that are easy-to-train are more willing and skilled at quickly learning prompts and actions with minimal training. Harder-to-train cats are usually more stubborn or aloof and require a bit more patience and practice.
Health
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Certain cat breeds are more prone to various genetic health problems, and some more than others. This doesn’t mean that every cat in those breeds will have these issues, but they do have an increased risk, so it’s important to understand and prepare for any additional needs they may require.
Lifespan
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Due to their size or potential genetic health issues of a specific breed, some cats have shorter lifespans than others. Proper nutrition, exercise, mental stimulation, and hygiene also play an important role in your cat’s lifespan and quality of life.
Sociability
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Some cat breeds are more social than others, both towards humans and other cats and animals. Cats that are more social have a tendency to rub up on strangers for scratches or jump on laps for cuddles, while cats that are less social shy away, hide, are more cautious, and even potentially aggressive. No matter the breed or gender, it’s important to socialize your cat and expose them to many different situations.

These cute little cats do not stay little for long. Once you bring one home, they will start growing like a weed. Before you know it, they will be fully grown and set in their ways. Here is what you should know about these cats before buying one.

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3 Little-Known Facts About Brazilian Shorthair Cats

1. They Love to Jump and Climb

These cats love to show off the impressive agility that they possess by jumping and climbing on anything that they can. They will even crawl up curtains if they do not have anything else to climb around on. Therefore, they need cat gyms so the furniture and other belongings get left alone.


2. They Do Not Like Water

The Brazilian Shorthair is not a fan of water. They can be stubborn when it comes to bathing, but luckily, they typically keep themselves clean enough to avoid the need for baths.


3. They Can Learn Tricks

The intelligence of these cats makes it easy to train them to do all kinds of different tricks. They can come, shake hands, beg, and even use a toilet!

Brazilian Shorthair
Image Credit: franklinveras, Shutterstock

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Temperament & Intelligence of the Brazilian Shorthair Cats

The Brazilian Shorthair is curious by nature and always seems to be getting into something. They will check out bags that are left out after grocery shopping, and they will spend hours playing with a box that came in the mail. They love attention and offer affection to anyone willing to give it to them in return.

These cats are playful, but toys will keep them entertained when people or other animals cannot be there to do so. They do not mind spending time alone at home, but they would not be happy doing it day after day. Someone should be home regularly throughout the week to keep them company. When a Brazilian Shorthair wants to communicate, they will not hesitate to meow no matter what time of day or night it is.

With agile bodies and bright minds, you may find a Brazilian Shorthair hanging out over the sink while you wash dishes just to get a taste of the water while keeping you company, or frolicking around in the basement while you do laundry. Overall, these are loving and adventurous cats that can adapt to most types of households.

Are These Cats Good for Families?

The Brazilian Shorthair has a fun-filled personality and loves to spend time with their family members. They enjoy play, which means that they typically get along well with children. They are affectionate toward babies, and they love following teenagers and adults around, no matter what they happen to be doing. So, it is safe to say that yes, this cat breed is great with families of all types.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

The great thing about Brazilian Shorthair cats is that they enjoy spending time with other animals of almost any kind. They do have a prey drive, but they can be taught not to chase or hunt smaller animals, like ferrets, if they start socializing with them as kittens. As for dogs and other cats, this breed has no problem living with either. They will become best friends with a Rottweiler and cheery partners with another frisky kitty.

Brazilian Shorthair Close up
Image Credit: Oak Tree Studiostock, Shutterstock

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Things to Know When Owning a Brazilian Shorthair Cat

There is still plenty to learn about this brilliant breed. Here are important things that you should know about taking care of the needs and well-being of the Brazilian Shorthair.

Food & Diet Requirements

The Brazilian Shorthair cat should consume a diet that is high in protein and low in fillers like wheat, corn, and soy. Cats do not need access to fruits and vegetables to stay healthy, as they are carnivores. Carnivores thrive on animal protein, muscles, and bones in the wild, and these cats would like the same. However, unless owners are keen on hunting and catching fresh animals for their cats every day, commercial food should be relied upon.

The first ingredient in their commercial diet, whether dry or wet, should be chicken, beef, turkey, seafood, or another suitable animal protein. A variety of vitamin and mineral supplements are standard to ensure that your new kitty gets the nutrition that they need to thrive throughout kitten and adulthood. Owners can supplement meals with real cooked fish, chicken, and other proteins.

Exercise

Every animal needs to release their bodily energy in the form of exercise. Exercise for the Brazilian Shorthair cat can come in various ways. While they do love spending time outdoors, owners worried about their welfare can rest assured that Brazilian Shorthairs can get all the exercise that they need indoors.

Brazilian Shorthair
Image By: Caio Carvalho Studio, Shutterstock

These cats love to play with toys, so leaving plastic mice and balls around the house should keep them busy while nobody is around the house to do so. They should have access to cat gyms and other animals if they will be expected to stay home alone every day. Playing and investigating their home should keep these kitties well exercised and healthy as time goes on.

Grooming ✂️

The Brazilian Shorthair cat has just that — short hair. Therefore, they shed minimally, so there is no need to comb or brush them daily. However, these cats should be groomed at least once a week to keep their coats shiny and smooth. Their ears should be inspected for pinkness and inflammation monthly, which could mean the presence of an infection. Dirt buildup in the ears can be clean with the help of a damp cloth and a gentle hand. Their nails should be trimmed once a month or so to prevent the development of chipping and cracking.

Health and Conditions

The Brazilian Shorthair is prone to a couple of health conditions that should be addressed by potential owners before an adoption takes place.

Minor Conditions
  • Breathing problems
Serious Conditions
  • Polycystic kidney disease

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Male vs. Female

Male Brazilian Shorthair cats tend to have bigger heads and bodies than females. Although both sexes are athletic by nature, males are typically more outgoing, while the girls are a bit more reserved. However, girls seem to be easier to potty train in the home than boys are, which seems to be the case with most cat breeds.

Final Thoughts

These are fine kitty cats for households of almost any type. They are great ratters, and they get along well with other animals that live in the same household. They enjoy the company of kids, other animals, and especially their adult parents. What do you think about this brilliant cat breed? We would love to read your comments down below.


Featured Image Credit: Oak Tree Studiostock, Shutterstock

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