The Exotic Shorthair cat is a short haired version of the Persian. These expressive kitties have short, soft coats and flat, broad faces. Exotic Shorthairs are not particularly common, but they are beginning to gain popularity. They do best on food that is easy to bite and chew, high in protein and fat, and low in fillers like carbohydrates.
Contents
Today I’ll share the best shorthair cat food products and explain the dietary needs of this rare breed.
A Different Diet?
The Exotic Shorthair is a brachycephalic breed – meaning it has a relatively broad, short skull. Due to the unique health issues having a flat face brings, Exotic Shorthair food needs can vary a bit from the average cat. For the most part, the actual dietary needs of Exotic Shorthairs are identical to the standard nutritional needs of most cat breeds. The big difference, however, is in the form of food best suited to them. That is, how easy it is to chew and swallow.
This is because Exotic Shorthairs may have dental issues that can lead to trouble with chewing and swallowing. This difficulty does not affect all Exotic Shorthairs, but it does change the dietary needs of a good portion of these cats, and it is likely to affect more and more of them if the fashion for excessively flat-faced pets doesn’t end soon.
Exotic Shorthair Food Requirements
The best food for Exotic Shorthair cats should be:
- rich in protein from animal sources
- grain free
- low in carbohydrates
- made with clearly named meats/fats
- free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives
- and easy to chew.
Additionally, Exotic Shorthair food should ideally be wet food instead of dry kibble. Wet food is typically easier for cats to chew and swallow. You don’t have to feed you cat solely wet food, but many Exotic Shorthair owners have success with a primarily wet food diet.
In addition to being easier to chew, wet food also has the benefit of more moisture. Adequate hydration is of course important for all types of cats, but it may be particularly important for Exotic Shorthairs.
This is because Exotic Shorthairs are more prone to calcium oxalate urolithiasis, a form of bladder or kidney stones. Increasing the amount of liquids in your cat’s diet (through the use of wet foods, or otherwise), can help to reduce the risk of developing these stones.
Exotic Shorthair Cat Food Recommendations
Because of these unique needs, some people recommend specialist foods for Exotic Shorthairs. Here are some popular choices:
Tiki Cat Gourmet Whole Food
This is a high quality food that’s grain free, carbohydrate free, and certified human-grade*. It’s a high-moisture blend with plenty of protein and fat.
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Food for Cats
Stella & Chewy’s product* is unique in that it’s freeze-dried. To serve it you simply add water. By weight, it’s 98% meat, organs and ground bones, so it’s a very simple and protein-rich formula. It’s also free or grains, colorings and artificial preservatives.
Purina ONE Grain Free Formula
Purina is a popular brand, and they make a grain-free formula* that’s mostly fish and animal protein. It’s a high-moisture blend, as well, which should be easier to chew for cats with dental issues.
Best Food for Exotic Shorthair Cats
Exotic Shorthair cats need the same high animal protein diet as all cats. However their unique face shape can result in dental problems which mean that a wet food diet is easier to chew and swallow.
If you have any questions about your cat’s ideal diet, it’s best to talk with your vet. Avoid falling for fancy marketing, and look for professional advice whenever possible.
What Does Your Exotic Shorthair Cat Like To Eat?
Have they struggled with any foods? Do you have a tried and tested diet you keep coming back to? Why not share your recommendations in the comments box!
Affiliate link disclosure: Links in this article marked with an * are affiliate links, and we may receive a small commission if you purchase these products. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.
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