Cat breed comparison
Persian vs Exotic Shorthair
How the two compare on size, temperament, training, grooming and health, and which suits your home. The Persian tends to live about 1 year longer.
At a glance
Side by side.
| Trait | Persian | Exotic Shorthair |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Iran (Persia) | United States |
| Weight | 9 - 14 lbs | 7 - 14 lbs |
| Life span | 14 - 15 years years | 12 - 15 years years |
| Lap cat | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic | No | No |
| Affection | ||
| Energy | ||
| Good with children | ||
| Good with dogs | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Vocal | ||
| Needs company | ||
| Intelligence | ||
| Health issues |
Ratings are 1 to 5, from our breed database. Every pet is an individual.
Key differences
Where they differ most.
Grooming needs
The Persian needs more grooming than the Exotic Shorthair.
Energy
The Exotic Shorthair has more energy than the Persian.
Shedding
The Persian sheds more than the Exotic Shorthair.
Good with children
The Exotic Shorthair is better with children than the Persian.
Good with dogs
The Exotic Shorthair gets on better with dogs than the Persian.
Which to choose
Persian or Exotic Shorthair?
Choose the Exotic Shorthair if…
- You want a cat that needs less grooming
- You want an active, playful companion (it has more energy)
- You want a cat that sheds less
- You want a cat that is better with children
Questions.
Is the Persian or the Exotic Shorthair bigger, and which lives longer?
The Persian tends to live about 1 year longer. Individual pets vary, so meet the parents or the pet where you can.
Which is easier to train, the Persian or the Exotic Shorthair?
They’re similarly easy to train. Short, positive, reward-based sessions work best for both.
Which is better for families, the Persian or the Exotic Shorthair?
The Exotic Shorthair is usually the better fit for families with children, though a well-socialised Persian can be great too. Always supervise young children with any pet.
Which sheds less?
The Exotic Shorthair sheds less than the Persian. No breed is completely hair-free; regular brushing helps with both.
