How Long Do British Shorthairs Live and How to Keep Them Healthy

Active British Shorthair kitten jumping – symbol of health and energy

Our kittens are our family — raised with love, healthy food, and always full of playful energy

British Shorthair cats are known for their calm temperament, round teddy-bear looks, and loyal character — but how many years can you expect to spend with such a wonderful companion?

Average lifespan of British Shorthairs

On average, British Shorthairs live between 14 and 20 years.
Their longevity depends on genetics, lifestyle, and care.
Many British cats remain healthy and active even in their senior years.

💡 In our cattery we are proud that our cats often live long, happy lives. Our oldest British cat was with us for 17 years and never once was ill. Today, we also have “pensioner” cats — one is already 14 years old and still enjoys life surrounded by family.

What influences their lifespan?

Genetics – Responsible breeders test their cats for genetic diseases such as PKD and HCM. Choosing a kitten from health-tested parents greatly increases the chance of a long and healthy life.
Nutrition – A natural, balanced diet keeps British Shorthairs full of energy and prevents obesity.
Weight control – These cats love food but can easily gain extra weight. Keeping them in good shape is essential.
Regular vet checks – Routine visits and vaccinations help prevent health issues.
Love and companionship – Cats who live in a stress-free, loving environment often live longer.

How to keep your British Shorthair healthy and happy

Provide a high-quality diet (we recommend BARF or premium natural foods - learn more about BARF feeding here).
Make sure they always have fresh water available.
Encourage daily play and activity, especially for indoor cats.
Keep up with annual veterinary examinations.
Offer them plenty of love, attention, and safe space in your home

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Do British Shorthairs live longer indoors?

Yes. Indoor British Shorthairs are usually safer from accidents, infections, and injuries. With good nutrition and care, they can easily live 15–20 years.

What is the oldest British Shorthair cat on record?

Some British Shorthairs have been reported to live over 20 years. While this is exceptional, reaching 16–18 years is quite common with proper care.

Do British Shorthairs have health problems?

They are generally healthy, but responsible breeders test for PKD (polycystic kidney disease) and HCM (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy). Buying from a breeder who provides health test results helps ensure a healthy kitten.

How can I help my British Shorthair live longer?

Feed a balanced diet, keep their weight under control, visit the vet regularly, and give them love and attention. Stress-free, well-cared cats live the longest.

💡 If you’re preparing to welcome a new family member, read our article “How to Prepare Your Home for a Kitten” — it’s full of practical tips for the first days together.

How Much Does a British Shorthair Kitten Cost and Why the Price Varies

Reviews

★★★★★

“Irina and Criative Diamonds Cattery has given me the absolute joy of my first British Shorthair. At first I was nervous about getting my baby from so far away- Latvia to NYC is no joke! But the experience was relatively painless with the help of everyone at Criative Diamonds. My little Nessa brings me so much joy every single day that I haven’t regretted a single moment. I currently have one older cat who will not be around forever and I am already thinking about Nessa’s new little sister even though it won’t be right away- the choice of where to go is a no-brainer. The temperament of a Criative Diamonds cats is so brilliant, loving, comical and soulful- there is just no other choice for me.”

— Susan Goulet, US

★★★★★

“I fell in love with Smokey's photo but I was very unsure about importing a cat. Criative Diamonds took the time to answer each of my questions in addition to explaining the procedure for importing Smokey to Canada. After a few days of hesitation we finally bought Smokey and Criative Diamonds took care of absolutely everything, we simply waited for our beautiful boy at the airport. We immediately fell in love with him, he is so affectionate, calm and funny. We can no longer imagine our life without Smokey 🐾💖 I recommend Criative Diamonds without hesitation, we could not have hoped for better 🐾”

— Jasmine Duchesne, Canada

★★★★★

“Good morning ☀️ We woke up, sat on the balcony with coffee, and she was right there with us! She is so sweet 😘 Thank you so much for everything — it’s clear she was so well cared for and loved. We are very happy 😇😘 She follows us everywhere, sits with us… I’m already worrying about Monday when she’ll have to stay alone for a few hours . But I’ll be back by 3 pm, so I hope it will be fine 🙏 She is pure gold — so smart and so sweet 😘. When we go to sleep, she goes to sleep. When we wake up, she wakes up 🤭. We actually have two levels in the apartment — she runs upstairs so quickly 🤭 but is still a bit scared to go downstairs. And if we leave, she cries a little, so I just pick her up and carry her with me 🤭😇. Thank you again 🙏 We are so happy 😘😘😘”

— Sintija, Netherlands

★★★★★

“Best cats ever! Personality and disposition are by far the best! Love our 2 too pieces!!! ❤️”

— Jennifer Hixson, US

★★★★★

“Aladdin just arrived and he is so nice. A perfect loving cat. The attention is excellent! Thanks for everything!”

— Gloria Alcantara, Mexico

★★★★★

“I have had 4 gorgeous kittens from Criative Diamonds and they have all been happy and healthy kittens - the kittens arrive with food and all paperwork - I can highly recommend this Cattery 😻🐾💕😻🐾💕”

— Heather Cranham, UK

★★★★★

“Xoma at home 😍 He is doing very well and starts spinning right away when we stroke him great. He feels very well at home once again a big thank you for the confidence. He is already well spoiled tonight he has walked around well and came to look for us in our bed hahahaha. We are super satisfied from Xoma can't imagine a better hug.”

— Fabienne Van Laethem, Belgium

★★★★★

“Vi har köpt Belle från dig och hon bor i Sverige nu. En helt fantastisk kattunge.”

— Agneta Linge, Sweden

★★★★★

“The decision to buy a kitten from this cattery was the best decision we made 👍. We live in the UK, and here cats are often bred in cages. That is exactly why I contacted Ira for a kitten. I went to Riga myself because our families are there, and we combined it with a vacation. Before taking the kitten, I visited the cattery, meaning Ira’s home. This is a wonderful family that raises kittens with love, calmness, and cleanliness. The kittens are very affectionate, very clean, well-groomed, well-fed, and happy 😻😻😻. It was visible immediately. Also, I saw the food they feed them — only professional-quality food, no cheap junk. The kitten traveled with us in the car and the whole way lay in my arms or my son’s. He got used to the home very quickly 👍👍👍. Now he is our favorite, the favorite of our friends, and of everyone who has ever visited our home 😊😊😊. Very friendly, he goes to everyone without exception, has a great character and health. I highly recommend getting kittens specifically from this cattery to everyone 👍👍👍. Ira and Veronika, thank you from the bottom of my heart for our family member 🌹🌹🌹”

— Lilita Meijere, UK

★★★★★

“Äntligen är vår efterlängtade sötnos här! Välkommen hem underbara Kiara (criative diamonds Delia) 💕 Thank you so mush best Ira for the trust and smooth process ❤️🙏🏼 She will be sooo loved here!”

— Hadia Ur-rehman Mian, Sweden

★★★★★

“We bought our Loki from this wonderful cattery. I am very grateful that I accidentally saw Ira on Facebook and immediately wrote to her. My husband and I really wanted a kitten, but we were not yet 100% sure that we were ready for it. After I wrote to Ira, I already knew that we would get this miracle from her. She is always in touch and answers any question (and I had many). I would like to note that she doesn’t reply with just one word to get it over with — she writes everything clearly and in detail. I confidently recommend these people to everyone 😊 As for our kitten’s personality, he is very brave, curious, and affectionate. Although he doesn’t like sitting on my lap, because I think I’ve already overwhelmed him with my kisses and hugs 😊”

— Alice, SwedenK

★★★★★

“Kan verkligen rekommenderar starkt katteri Criative Diamonds till alla som funderar på en brittisk korthårsras. Vi har haft vår Winchester i nästan en månad nu, och vi är otroligt tacksamma för att vi fick förtroendet att köpa honom. Han är den mest tillgivna, sociala och intelligenta katten vi någonsin träffat, vårt söta lilla hjärta.”

— Jasmine Berggren, Sweden

★★★★★

“Jedis show number is #1. Currently in Oklahoma for the cat show He did very well for his first show! A bit too shy to play with the judges but he was purring when I held him and was fine with me carrying him around the showhall. One judge that used to show British Longhairs didn’t use him in the speciality (only five cats were chosen instead of the 10 that were chosen in the allbreed rings) but she said he looks great and he has everything she would look for in a BLH. She said Brit’s do take longer to mature but she thinks he will grow up to be great example of a BLH!”

— Dawn Pettyjohn, US

★★★★★

“Ira!!! Acaba de llegae Muy bien! Esta ronroneando. Mis otros gatos le regañan porque es un extraño, espero que poco a poco le acepten Muy bien!! Habla mucho y super cariñoso. Ha dormido esta noche en nuestra cama Gracias Irina por todo! Ha sido un acierto conocerte. Si algun dia vienes por España me avisas, que ya nos entenderemos con el idioma de alguna manera 😅. Gracias por todo 😘😘”

— Olga Moreno Martin, Spain

★★★★★

“He is wonderful baby . I am so sooooo happy that you could sent him out here He is a naughty one! But I love him regardless haha He learned how to open small trash can in the bathroom and all the cabinets which he can reach out! Urchin ! Haha 🖤🐈 Omg I am telling you haha . He IS smart”

— Monika Marciniak, US

★★★★★

“Witam . Royalek ma sie bardzo dobrze. Jest wielkim pieszczochem. Ładnie je i bawi sie. Nie sprawia żadnych kłopotów. Jest cudowny. Mruczy i gra calymi dniami piekne kocie melodyjki. Pozdrawiam serdecznie”

— Anna Jabłońska, Poland

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“Witam . Royal na miedzynarodowej wystawie w Warszawie otrzymał 1xEX1 , CAC i mamy zakończony tytuł Champion oraz 1xEX1 CACIB 😀”

— Anna Jabłońska, Poland

★★★★★

“Good Morning Irina, the first minutes in Flynn's new home He is very very affectionate. 🥰🥰 He slept for a very long time on my legs. He spoke to me, a lot.....I love it so much. 🥰❣️ Hi, the first night was very good....he slept beside me. 🥰 Flynn feels good, he ate, drunk, played, looked at the house and tells me stories. I love him 🥰😃”

— Elvira Morowat , Germany