7 Shorthair Cat Breeds With Faces You'll Want to Squeeze

British Shorthairs are all over social media for a reason. Look at that face! Tomasz Bobrzynski / Getty Images

Shorthair cat breeds are a favorite among pet parents for their sleek coats, low-maintenance grooming needs, and affectionate personalities.

From ancient mousers to teddy bear lookalikes, these cats bring personality and charm in medium-sized packages. Each cat breed listed here is recognized for its unique behavior, appearance, and appeal to families and first-time cat owners alike.

1. Domestic Shorthair Cat

Often adopted from a local shelter, the domestic shorthair cat isn’t a single breed but a category of mixed-breed felines. Their coat color, pattern, and personality can vary greatly, from classic tabby markings to calico.

These cats are among the most popular cat breed types in the U.S. due to their adaptability, health, and friendly nature.

2. British Shorthair

The plush, dense coat of British Shorthair cats gives them a cuddly, teddy bear look. Known for their round face and thick tail, this breed is among the oldest in the world, with roots dating back to ancient Egypt.

Calm and quiet, they’re perfect for low-energy households and get along well with dogs and other animals.

3. American Shorthair

cat — American Shorthair. Kilito Chan / Getty Images

The American Shorthair cat is renowned for its versatility and long history as a working cat. Brought to North America to help control mice, it has since become one of the most popular cat breed choices for families.

These cats have sturdy builds, a variety of patterns, and mellow dispositions that make them easy pets.

4. Exotic Shorthair

Exotic shorthair cat. — Exotic Shorthair. Kilito Chan / Getty Images

Think Persian cat, minus the hair drama. The Exotic Shorthair has a short, plush coat and that same round face and sweet expression.

This cat breed is affectionate but not clingy, playful but not wild. Regular brushing helps maintain its softness, and its quiet demeanor makes it ideal for house living.

5. Havana Brown

This chocolate-colored beauty has vivid green eyes and a smooth, sleek coat. The Havana Brown is intelligent and sociable, often following its humans from room to room.

It’s a rare breed, originally developed by crossing Siamese with other domestic cats to achieve its distinct look and personality — ideal for those wanting a more interactive feline companion.

6. Singapura

Small but mighty, the Singapura is one of the smallest cats in the world, yet it’s packed with curiosity and energy. Its small, muscular build, large ears, and sepia-toned fur are distinctive.

These cats thrive on play and interaction, making them great for active household settings.

7. Korat

With a silvery-blue coat and heart-shaped face, the Korat is a pedigree Thai cat breed known for its loyalty. It’s quiet and observant, often bonding deeply with one person. Not overly demanding, the Korat appreciates a few hours of focused play but also enjoys calm environments.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.