Not all cats come with long, flowing fur—some embrace a sleek, low-maintenance coat that highlights their elegance and charm.
Shorthair cats are a diverse and fascinating group, offering everything from playful companions to regal, independent souls. Their short coats don’t just make grooming easier; they also bring out their striking features, bold patterns, and expressive eyes.
Whether you love the plush look of some breeds or the refined, muscular build of others, types of shorthair cats prove that beauty isn’t defined by fur length.
If you’re searching for a feline that blends style, personality, and practicality, these cats are an ideal choice.
Types of Shorthair Cat Breeds
1. Havana Brown
Imagine a cat that looks like it was sculpted from the richest, finest dark chocolate—meet the Havana Brown. With a coat so velvety smooth, you’d swear it was custom-made, and emerald-green eyes that can melt hearts on sight, this cat is nothing short of mesmerizing.
But beneath this elegant exterior is a total sweetheart. Havana Browns are the type of cats who insist on being involved in everything—working on your laptop? They’ll type an email for you. Reading a book? They’ll sit directly on the book (because clearly, they’re more interesting).
These cats have a signature move: reaching out with their paws to grab your attention. Expect gentle nose boops, playful taps, and a level of affection that makes them more dog-like in disguise.
With their short, smooth fur, Havana Browns require minimal grooming. A quick brushing once a week keeps them looking sleek and removes any loose hair. They also enjoy a good rubdown with a soft cloth—because being extra pampered suits their personality.
Best for: People who want a shadow that follows them everywhere—bathroom included.
2. Russian Blue
If James Bond were a cat, he’d be a Russian Blue. With their plush silver-blue coats, piercing green eyes, and an air of mystery, these felines are the ultimate in quiet elegance. They even have a natural smile—so don’t be surprised if they always look like they know something you don’t.
Russian Blues are introverted but fiercely loyal once they trust you. They prefer a drama-free lifestyle (unlike some other cats on this list), so don’t expect them to throw tantrums or knock things off shelves for attention.
But don’t let their composed nature fool you—these cats are smart. Give them a puzzle toy, and they’ll solve it in minutes. Leave a door slightly ajar, and they’ll find a way to open it. Forget where you hid the treats? They didn’t.
Despite its luxurious, double-layered plushness, the Russian Blue’s coat is low-maintenance. Weekly brushing keeps it soft and removes dead hair, and since they don’t shed excessively, you won’t find blue fuzz on every surface.
Best for: People who want a genius cat that’s elegant, independent, and just a little too clever.
3. Siamese
Do you want a cat that will narrate your entire day? Because the Siamese is ready to deliver a TED Talk on why you absolutely should have fed them five minutes ago.
Known for its sleek, slender body, short coat, and striking blue almond-shaped eyes, the Siamese cat is one of the most recognizable and ancient breeds. These popular cats are also known for being talkative, with their meows ranging from sweet chirps to dramatic opera-like performances.
Siamese cats are the ultimate extroverts, always following you around and inserting themselves into every part of your life. Taking a shower? They’ll be on the counter, supervising. Cooking? They’ll judge your technique. Watching TV? Forget the show, because the Siamese is the real entertainment.
Their fur changes color based on temperature. Cooler areas—like their ears, paws, and tail—become darker, making them living, breathing ombré masterpieces.
The Siamese coat is as easy as it gets. Their short, fine fur requires minimal brushing—just a light combing once in a while to remove loose hairs. Plus, they love a good petting session, which doubles as a grooming routine.
Best for: People who want a chatty, affectionate, high-energy best friend who will have the last word.
4. Singapura
The Singapura may be small, but it has zero chill. Weighing in at just 4-8 pounds, this cat is a tiny parkour expert in fur. If there’s a high spot in your house, they’ll find a way up. If there’s a new object on the table, expect it to be on the floor in five seconds flat.
With their enormous eyes and oversized ears, Singapuras always look adorably shocked—like they just overheard some scandalous gossip. But despite their tiny frames, they have energy levels that could rival a toddler on a sugar rush.
They love to play, climb, and investigate everything. But when the zoomies are over, they’ll curl up in your lap, proving that even the tiniest cats can have the biggest hearts.
The Singapura’s coat is short, fine, and practically effortless. They rarely shed, and a simple stroke of your hand is often enough to keep them looking polished. A quick brushing now and then keeps them happy and shiny.
Best for: People who want a playful, adventurous, adorable little gremlin who keeps life exciting.
5. British Shorthair
If you’ve ever wanted a cat that looks like a plush toy but with serious dignity, the British Shorthair is your dream come true.
With their round faces, big, soulful eyes, and dense, velvety fur, these cats are the definition of cozy charm. They’re the kind of cats who exude royalty—think Winston Churchill in feline form.
As per PetPlan, the British Shorthair’s chunky build and short, dense coat set them apart from other breeds, such as Bengals and Egyptian Maus, which typically have sleek and slender bodies.
British Shorthairs are laid-back, independent, and a little bit posh. They’re affectionate but not clingy, making them the perfect pet for people who want a cat that loves them—but from a respectable distance. They won’t demand constant attention, but they’ll be there to quietly judge your life choices from across the room.
Despite their plush, thick fur, they’re surprisingly low-maintenance. A weekly brushing helps keep shedding in check and maintains that signature teddy bear look.
Best for: People who want a relaxed, dignified, and huggable (but not overly needy) feline friend.
6. Bengal
If you’ve ever wanted a pet that looks straight out of the jungle but acts like a mischievous toddler, the Bengal is your match.
These cats are stunning—with their golden coats covered in wild rosettes, they look like they walked right out of the rainforest. But don’t let their exotic appearance fool you; they’re total goofballs at heart.
Bengals are high-energy, adventurous, and incredibly intelligent. They love climbing, playing in the water (yes, some even love baths!), and finding creative ways to cause chaos. Expect them to turn your bookshelves into an obstacle course and “help” with your morning coffee by knocking it over just to see what happens.
Their sleek, short coat requires very little grooming—just an occasional brushing to keep them looking fabulous. Bonus: Bengals don’t shed much, so you won’t be drowning in cat hair!
Best for: Active households that want a playful, intelligent, and slightly wild feline companion.
7. Bombay
Want a black cat with the elegance of a panther but the attitude of a playful kitten? The Bombay is your perfect match.
These sleek, all-black beauties have glossy coats that look like they’ve been polished to perfection, and their golden eyes practically glow in the dark. They are truly the James Bond of cats—charming, confident, and always stylish.
But don’t be fooled by their smooth, mysterious looks—Bombay cats are total cuddle bugs. They adore attention and will follow you around like a shadow. As per PetMD, Bombay cats don’t just enjoy company—they need it and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
If you sit down, expect a Bombay on your lap. If you’re cooking, expect a Bombay supervising. These cats crave human companionship and will use their adorable faces to get what they want (which is usually snuggles and treats).
Their ultra-sleek, short fur needs minimal care—just an occasional wipe-down with a soft cloth to keep them looking shiny.
Best for: People who want a loving, affectionate, and undeniably stylish feline best friend.
8. Egyptian Mau
Ever seen a cat that looks like it belongs in an ancient Egyptian painting? That’s the Egyptian Mau—the only domesticated cat with a naturally spotted coat. With their striking green eyes, athletic build, and grace fit for a pharaoh, these cats are a living piece of history.
And when we say athletic, we mean supercharged. As per VCA, Maus are the fastest domestic cats, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph!
They love to run, jump, and chase anything that moves—including their tails if necessary. But don’t worry—they also have a soft side and enjoy cuddles (once they’ve finished their zoomies).
Their short, fine fur is practically self-cleaning. A quick brushing now and then keeps them looking regal.
Best for: People who love active, playful, and slightly mysterious cats with a royal background.
9. Abyssinian
If you’re looking for a cat that will never act its age, the Abyssinian is here to keep you entertained forever.
Often called the “clowns of the cat world,” these cats have endless energy, an insatiable curiosity, and an ability to turn anything into a toy. If you leave a cabinet open, expect them to explore it. If there’s a curtain, expect them to climb it.
Abyssinians are incredibly social, playful, and affectionate. They’re always on the move, always getting into something, and always ready for fun.
If you want a cat that acts like a kitten no matter its age, this is the breed for you. Their short, fine coat is super low-maintenance. A light brushing once in a while is more than enough.
Best for: People who want a fun-loving, adventurous, and endlessly entertaining feline companion.
Conclusion
Shorthair cats come in a remarkable variety, each with its unique charm. From the silky coats of the Tonkinese cats to the curly coats of the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, these felines prove that short fur doesn’t mean less personality. Other popular choices like the Exotic Shorthair and American Shorthair have long been favorites among cat lovers, while many other shorthair cat breeds offer a perfect blend of low-maintenance grooming and affectionate companionship.
Unlike longhaired cats, shorthair breeds require minimal upkeep while still boasting striking appearances. Whether you prefer the plush look of the Exotic Shorthair or the wavy fur of the Devon Rex, the world of short-haired cat breeds is full of fascinating options. While they may not resemble the elusive Indian black leopard, these cats bring their kind of beauty, elegance, and charm into the home.
