When it comes to aesthetics, the British Longhair is a stunningly beautiful breed.
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Cat Breeds Encyclopedia
These adorable kitties are known for having chubby faces, chipmunk cheeks, and plush, fluffy coats. The Cat Breed Encyclopedia describes them as being “built like a linebacker” but with loads of soft, fluffy fur.
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missypampam/Bored Panda
According to The International Cat Association (TICA), the British Longhair is one of the oldest types of English cats.
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catswallpapers.net
These fluffy beauties date all the way back to ancient Rome, where they were used to hunt and protect barns.
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pets4homes.co.uk
“They have changed little over the centuries,” TICA explains.
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weetboys_bsh_blh
As mentioned, British Longhairs are known for their chubby faces, chipmunk cheeks, and furry coats.
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Video Screenshot
They come in a variety of colors and sport big, round eyes in hues of gold, blue, and green.
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Theresa Archer/Pinterest
British Longhairs normally weigh anywhere between 9 and 18 pounds.
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Kitten Center Blog
And aside from the length of their fur, British Shorthairs and Longhairs are pretty much the same.
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pets4homes.co.uk
“Breeders of the British Shorthair cat occasionally used long-haired breeds— most notably Persians— to strengthen the [Shorthair] breed throughout its history,” Cat Breed Encyclopedia explains.
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Natalea Cats/Pinterest
Because breeders would mix Persians with British Shorthairs, it wasn’t rare for a long-haired kitten to pop up. Unfortunately, however, for many years, these long-haired cats were deemed undesirable.
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Janet Barbour/Pinterest
Luckily, that’s no longer the case. But there was still controversy when breeders decided to start breeding specifically for this “undesirable” long coat.
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Les British du Close d'Eugenie
Even now, only a handful of cat organizations recognize the British Longhair as a separate and legitimate breed.
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Wuvely
Regardless of technicalities though, these cats are truly a sight to behold.
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Catholic/Pinterest
British Longhairs are dignified and affectionate, giving love to everyone they meet.
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Wuvely
If you’re looking for a cuddly, easy-going companion…
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Kathy/Pinterest
With a personality and looks, to boot.
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Vanessa Pouzet
Then try a British Longhair— they may be the purrrfect kitties for you.
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By Britanie Leclair
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Britanie Leclair is a contributor at SBLY Media.