Cats, Dogs and Chinchilla Cat

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Looking for an Exotic cat in the Kansas City area? You've come to the perfect spot. This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know to find and bring home a healthy and happy feline companion. From learning about the breed's characteristics to finding trustworthy breeders and adoption centers, we'll cover every detail. Whether you're a new cat parent or an experienced enthusiast, you'll find this article invaluable.
An Introduction to the Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair is often fondly called "the easy-going Persian."
This nickname is aptly given. They were bred in the 1950s by mating American Shorthairs with Persians, with the aim of creating a cat that had the gentle, docile temperament of the Persian but with a low-shed, easy-care coat. The result was a charming and tranquil breed that rapidly gained popularity.
Defining features of the Exotic cat include:
A plush, dense coat that feels like a plush toy.
A large, round head with small, rounded ears.
Big, round eyes that are often described as 'saucer-like'.
A pushed-in, short muzzle.
A cobby body with strong, short limbs.
A quiet, melodious meow.
Temperament
The personality of the Exotic is without a doubt its most appealing trait. They are known for being:
Gentle and docile.
They love to relax and are more sedentary than many other breeds.
Affectionate and loyal. They form close connections with their owners and love to cuddle.
Quiet and low-key. They don't demand a lot of attention but readily welcome it when offered.
Good with children and other pets.
Their easy-going nature makes them a great fit for households with children and other animals.
Playful, but not hyper. They like to play but are just as content to curl up on your lap.
Finding a Reputable Exotic Shorthair Breeder in Kansas City
When you decide to purchase a purebred cat, the single most important thing is to find a trustworthy and responsible breeder. A good breeder prioritizes the health and well-being of their cats, ensures proper socialization, and offers health guarantees and medical records.
Key indicators of a good breeder:
Affiliation with a cat organization like The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) or The International Cat Association (TICA). Being a member shows they are serious about the breed.
Willingness to let you visit their cattery. A good breeder will be proud to show you where their cats live. The breeding area should be sanitary and tidy.
Health screening. They should provide proof that the parent cats have been screened for hereditary diseases like Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD).
Written health guarantees and contracts. They should offer a contract that outlines the health of the kitten and what happens if issues arise.
Age of the kittens. Kittens should not leave their mother before they are at least 12 weeks old. This gives them time to develop social skills.
References. Ask for references from other people who have bought kittens.
The breeder screens you. A good breeder will be just as interested in you if you are a good home for their cat as you are in them.
While we cannot list specific breeders, you can use the CFA or TICA websites to find breeders near you. You can also attend local cat shows to meet breeders face-to-face.
Exotic Shorthair Adoption Options in the KC Metro
Adopting a cat is a beautiful and fulfilling path. While finding a true Exotic Shorthair in a local shelter can be challenging, it's still a possibility. Many purebreds end up in shelters or rescues due to various circumstances like an changes in a family's life.
Here's how to increase your chances of finding an Exotic Shorthair for adoption:
Check local Kansas City animal shelters and humane societies. Keep an eye on the websites of organizations like the KC Pet Project, Wayside Waifs, or other local rescue groups.
Contact breed-specific rescue organizations. There are rescues dedicated to rehoming Persians and Exotics.
Searching online for "Exotic Shorthair rescue" will likely turn up results.
Create search alerts. Many adoption websites allow you to set up email alerts for specific breeds.
Talk to breeders. Sometimes, breeders will have an adult cat that they are looking to rehome.
Cost and Financial Considerations
The cost of an Exotic Shorthair kitten can vary widely based on the breeder's reputation, the kitten's bloodline, and whether it's for show or for pet.
When buying from a breeder, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 or more for a pet-quality kitten.
Rescue fees from a rescue organization are significantly lower, typically ranging from $100 to $300. This fee usually covers spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and a microchip.
The purchase price is not the only cost. You'll also need to budget for:
Food.
Veterinary visits.
Brushes and combs.
Entertainment.
Litter and litter boxes.
A way to transport them and a place for them to sleep.
Taking Care of Your Exotic Shorthair
A key selling point of the Exotic Shorthair is its low-maintenance fur.
While they don't have the long hair of a Persian, they do need regular grooming to avoid mats and fur balls.
Grooming: A short, daily brushing session is recommended to get rid of shedding fur and maintain the coat's health. A a special brush works effectively.
Bathing: They rarely need a bath, but a bath on occasion will help keep their coat shiny and clean.
Cleaning their face: Due to their brachycephalic structure, they are prone to tear stains.
Gently cleaning their face with a damp cloth or a vet-approved tear stain remover will help keep the area clean and prevent staining.
Clipping nails: Trim their nails regularly.
Dental Hygiene: Regular dental care is essential to prevent dental disease.
Common Health Issues to Be Aware Of
While generally a healthy breed, the Exotic's flat face makes them at risk for certain health issues.
A reputable breeder will test for these, but it's important for you to be aware of them.
Breathing issues: This is a group of problems that can obstruct the airway. Symptoms include noisy breathing.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): This is a genetic condition that can lead to serious kidney problems.
Responsible breeders will ensure their cats are clear of this gene.
Eye Issues: Due to their big eyes, they can be prone to issues like epiphora (excessive tearing) and cherry eye.
Dental Disease: Their unique mouth shape can lead to oral health issues.
The First Few Days
After you've located your new companion, it's time to get ready for them to come home.
Make your home safe for a cat. Put away any small items they could swallow and secure any wires or cords.
Set up a 'safe room'. A small, quiet room with a litter box, food, water, and a bed will help them adjust to their new surroundings without feeling stressed.
Introduce them to other pets slowly. Follow a slow and gradual introduction process to avoid fights.
Set a schedule. Cats thrive on regularity.
Consistent feeding, play, and grooming will help them feel secure.
Final Thoughts
The search for an Exotic Shorthair in Kansas City is an a thrilling adventure. By taking your time and being diligent, you can find a wonderful cat that will bring years of joy and companionship. Whether you choose to adopt from a rescue or purchase from a reputable breeder, an Exotic will be a delightful and loving addition to your family. With their lovely personality and cute appearance, it's no surprise they are so popular. Enjoy the process, and get ready to welcome your new best friend!

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