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British Longhair Health Guide: Risks, Care & Prevention

british longhair cat

A complete health breakdown for British Longhair cats, including genetic conditions, HCM and PKD screening, obesity risks, joint care, dental needs, and when to call the vet.

British Longhair Health Guide: Common Issues & Prevention

Understanding British Longhair Health

British Longhairs are typically a healthy, well-balanced breed when produced by responsible programs. Their moderate temperament and predictable routines make it easier for owners to notice when something is “off.” While they share ancestry with British Shorthairs, their semi-long coat adds a few additional care considerations that owners should understand from the start. Overall, they are not considered a medically fragile breed, but they do have several hereditary and lifestyle-linked health priorities worth monitoring.


What “Normal” Looks Like for a Healthy British Longhair

A healthy British Longhair is calm, predictable, and engages in brief but meaningful bursts of play. Owners should expect:

  • steady appetite and consistent litter box use
  • clean, well-maintained coat without matting
  • soft, quiet breathing
  • relaxed, social behavior with no prolonged hiding
  • even energy levels rather than hyperactivity

Because British Longhairs are naturally laid-back, small behavioral changes often signal early illness—less climbing, less interaction, slower walking, or avoiding favorite resting spots.


British Longhair Health Overview — Quick Summary

CategoryKey Points
General HealthGenerally robust; slow growth; semi-long coat adds grooming and hydration considerations; calm demeanor can mask symptoms.
Major Hereditary RisksHCM, PKD, obesity, dental disease, joint strain, hairball-related GI issues.
Early Warning SignsAppetite changes, extra hiding, lethargy, noisy breathing, vomiting/diarrhea, constipation, litter box changes, rapid weight changes, coat dullness or early matting.
Kitten Health PrioritiesVaccines 8–16 weeks, parasite control, growth/weight monitoring, coat acclimation (grooming training), baseline vet exams.
Adult Health PrioritiesWeight management, annual wellness exams, dental care, coat/skin checks, proactive hairball prevention.
Senior Health PrioritiesKidney/thyroid screening, arthritis detection, hydration support, exams every 6 months.
Screening Breeders Should PerformHCM echocardiograms, PKD DNA testing, detailed lineage tracking, coat-maintenance suitability (no extreme facial structure).
Nutrition EssentialsControlled calories, high-quality protein, daily wet food for hydration, omega-3 support, obesity prevention from early life.
Preventive CareVaccines, parasite control, routine dental care, consistent grooming, hairball prevention, early detection through regular exams.
When to Contact a Vet ImmediatelyLabored breathing, nonstop vomiting, inability to keep water down, no appetite for >24 hours, collapse, constipation >48 hours, blood in urine/stool, straining to urinate.

Hereditary Conditions Seen in British Longhair Cats

British Longhairs are generally sturdy, healthy cats, but—like all pedigreed breeds—they have several hereditary conditions that responsible breeders screen for. Understanding these risks helps owners know what to monitor, what tests to ask about, and what to discuss with their veterinarian as their cat ages.


Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

What it is

HCM is a thickening of the heart muscle. As the walls of the heart enlarge, blood flow becomes less efficient, eventually stressing the entire cardiovascular system. It is the most common heart condition in domestic cats.

Why British Longhairs can be predisposed

Because British Longhairs share ancestry with British Shorthairs, they can inherit the same line-specific risk for HCM. The condition varies widely by family line, so consistent tracking and testing by breeders is essential.

Signs owners should watch for

  • rapid breathing or panting
  • open-mouth breathing
  • sudden drop in energy
  • reluctance to jump or move
  • collapse or fainting episodes

These symptoms require immediate veterinary attention.

Screening recommendations (echocardiogram timing)

Breeding cats should undergo echocardiograms every 12–24 months.
Pet owners may consider baseline imaging if:

  • their cat comes from a line with known HCM cases
  • their veterinarian detects a heart murmur
  • subtle respiratory or fatigue issues appear

Early testing does not prevent HCM, but it helps guide long-term care.


Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD)

Genetic cause

PKD comes from a dominant gene mutation that forms fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. These cysts may grow slowly for many years before affecting kidney function.

Symptoms and progression

British Longhairs with progressing PKD may show:

  • increased thirst and urination
  • weight loss
  • reduced appetite
  • lethargy
  • vomiting in advanced stages

Because signs can be subtle early on, routine monitoring is important.

Importance of DNA testing in breeding cats

A simple cheek-swab DNA test identifies PKD carriers.
Ethical British Longhair breeders:

  • test every breeding cat
  • remove carriers from breeding programs
  • document PKD-free lines

This makes PKD one of the most preventable hereditary issues in the breed.

Early detection & monitoring

Even in PKD-negative cats, routine senior care is important.
Monitoring may include:

  • yearly blood panels
  • urine testing
  • periodic ultrasound in older adults

Obesity-Related Health Issues

Why British Longhairs are prone to weight gain

British Longhairs have a naturally dense build, moderate metabolism, and a calm lifestyle. Without structured feeding, subtle weight gain can occur quickly—and their long coat can hide it.

Associated risks

Excess weight increases the likelihood of:

  • diabetes
  • early arthritis and joint pain
  • reduced mobility
  • heart and respiratory stress
  • shortened lifespan

Feeding guidelines & prevention

To protect long-term health:

  • avoid free-feeding
  • offer scheduled meals
  • balance wet and dry food for hydration and calorie control
  • incorporate short daily play sessions
  • track weight monthly

Even small adjustments make a measurable difference in joint and heart health.


Dental Health Concerns

Breed tendency toward tartar buildup

Many British Longhairs develop tartar and gingivitis earlier than owners expect. Their calm nature means they may tolerate discomfort quietly, so early prevention is important.

Symptoms of dental disease

  • bad breath
  • drooling
  • reduced interest in dry food
  • pawing at the mouth
  • red or swollen gums

Prevention

Effective dental care includes:

  • introducing tooth brushing in kittenhood
  • using cat-safe toothpaste
  • offering dental treats or diets recommended by your vet
  • professional dental cleanings as needed

Routine mouth checks at home help catch early inflammation.


Joint & Mobility Considerations

Why joint support matters

The British Longhair’s solid bone structure and moderate activity level mean their joints experience steady wear over time. Extra weight increases this strain significantly.

Early signs of discomfort

  • hesitation before jumping
  • stiffness after naps
  • less climbing
  • reduced play
  • favoring a limb

These changes may be subtle but meaningful.

Importance of controlled growth in kittenhood

Structured calories and safe, moderate play protect developing joints. Avoid high-impact activities that involve repeated jumping from elevated surfaces.


Respiratory or Structural Considerations

British Longhairs are not brachycephalic, but certain lines may have slightly shorter noses or heavier facial features inherited from their British ancestry. This typically does not cause medical issues but can create mild respiratory noises.

When to watch for signs

  • snoring or congested breathing
  • frequent sneezing
  • noisy breathing at rest
  • increased respiratory sounds during mild activity

Persistent symptoms should be assessed to rule out infection, allergies, or structural concerns.


Life Stage Health Overview for British Longhair Cats

Kitten Health

Key screenings

British Longhair kittens should receive a full wellness exam within their first week home. Your veterinarian will assess their heart, lungs, eyes, ears, joints, gums, and abdominal health. Many people search “what health tests do British Longhair kittens need,” and the answer is simple: early exams help detect congenital concerns, especially HCM or PKD in lines where these conditions have appeared.
Baseline checks during kittenhood are one of the strongest predictors of lifelong health.

Growth monitoring

British Longhair kittens grow slowly and steadily, just like their shorthair relatives. Weekly weight checks during the first few months confirm that the kitten is growing at a healthy rate without gaining too quickly. Searches like “Are British Longhairs slow to grow?” are common—yes, controlled development is normal and ideal for this breed.

Parasite control

Your kitten should follow a structured deworming and parasite-prevention plan recommended by both your breeder and veterinarian. Even indoor kittens can encounter parasites carried on shoes, soil, bedding, or other pets. Use only kitten-safe flea/tick preventatives, and follow dosing instructions closely.

Vaccines and early detection

British Longhair kittens should receive the standard feline FVRCP vaccine every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age, plus rabies according to local law. Owners frequently ask “what vaccines do British Longhair kittens need,” and the answer is the same core protocol used for healthy, well-bred kittens across all breeds.
Maintaining the schedule—rather than spacing vaccines too far apart—is essential for strong immunity.


Adult British Longhair Health

Weight management

One of the most searched questions is: “Why is my British Longhair getting overweight?”
British Longhairs have a dense frame, slower metabolism, and a calm nature, which means they can gain weight quietly if free-fed. Structured mealtimes, balanced nutrition, and short, daily play sessions help maintain a healthy body condition. Weight control is critical because their semi-long coat often hides early gain.

Dental care

Adult British Longhairs can develop tartar and gum inflammation if dental care is delayed. Regular brushing with cat-safe toothpaste, dental chews (as recommended by your vet), and scheduled professional cleanings help prevent periodontal disease—a major risk for adult cats of all breeds.

Coat and skin health

A healthy British Longhair coat is thick, soft, and evenly layered. Because the coat is longer than a standard British Shorthair, adults benefit from 2–3 brushings per week to prevent tangles, reduce shedding, and monitor for skin concerns.
Patchy coat loss, dandruff, or sudden matting can indicate parasites, allergies, or nutritional issues.

Annual wellness exams

Once fully grown, British Longhairs should see the vet once a year for a full physical exam, weight evaluation, dental review, and internal parasite screening. Annual exams catch subtle issues long before owners notice external symptoms.


Senior British Longhair Health

When seniors typically emerge (8+ years)

British Longhairs reach senior status around age 8. Searches like “How long do British Longhairs live?” or “When is a British Longhair considered senior?” are common—most healthy British Longhairs live 12–18+ years, and many reach their twenties with excellent care.

Common age-related issues

As British Longhairs age, several conditions become more common:

  • Kidney disease: routine bloodwork and urine testing detect early decline.
  • Arthritis: their sturdy structure and lifelong weight trends can contribute to stiffness.
  • Dental disease: tartar accumulation and gum inflammation progress faster without regular cleanings.
  • Hairball-related GI issues: their fuller coat increases hair ingestion during grooming.

What to monitor at home

Owners should watch for:

  • decreased jumping or mobility
  • weight loss or gain
  • increased thirst or urination
  • inconsistent grooming or new matting
  • litter box avoidance
  • behavior changes, hiding, or reduced interaction

Any of these can be early signs of disease.

Suggested increased vet frequency

Senior British Longhairs benefit from veterinary exams every 6 months, including:

  • bloodwork
  • urine analysis
  • weight and muscle-condition scoring
  • dental evaluation

Routine screens detect age-related disease long before symptoms appear, giving owners more treatment options and better long-term outcomes.


Preventive Care for British Longhair Cats

Vaccination Protocols

Kitten vaccines

British Longhair kittens should follow the standard core vaccination schedule to build strong, lasting immunity:

  • FVRCP at 8, 12, and 16 weeks
  • Rabies vaccine according to state law
  • FeLV only if lifestyle and risk factors make it appropriate

Because British Longhairs mature slowly, consistent vaccine timing helps protect them through a long developmental window.

Adult boosters

Once your British Longhair reaches adulthood, they should receive:

  • Annual or triannual FVRCP boosters (your veterinarian will determine the schedule)
  • Rabies boosters required by state or country regulations

Why this breed benefits from consistent preventive care

British Longhairs are sturdy cats, but hereditary conditions like HCM and PKD often progress quietly. Consistent vaccinations and annual wellness exams establish baselines—making it easier for your veterinarian to notice early signs of change in heart function, kidney values, or body condition.


Parasite Prevention

Safe flea, tick, and worming options

British Longhairs should receive veterinarian-approved preventatives only. Many over-the-counter products marketed for cats are ineffective or unsafe. Spot-ons, oral medications, and routine deworming protect British Longhairs from parasites that affect skin, coat, and internal organ health.

Why prevention matters, even for indoor cats

Parasites can be carried indoors by:

  • shoes and clothing
  • bedding or furniture
  • visiting pets
  • screened windows or entry points
  • newly adopted animals

Because British Longhairs have a dense coat, fleas or skin irritation may be harder to spot early. Prevention is far easier—and far safer—than treating established infestations.


Nutrition for Long-Term Health

Controlled calorie intake

British Longhairs tend toward weight gain due to their dense build and calm lifestyle. Avoid free-feeding. Use measured meals and weigh food for consistency.

Protein quality

Choose kitten and adult diets rich in high-quality, animal-based protein. This supports:

  • steady muscle development
  • controlled growth
  • healthy coat production
  • long-term weight stability

Hydration habits (wet food importance)

British Longhairs often drink less water than ideal. Daily wet food improves hydration, supports kidney health, and helps reduce hairball formation—important for a semi-long-coated breed.

Preventing obesity early

  • establish predictable meal routines
  • use puzzle feeders or slow-feed bowls
  • encourage short, daily play sessions
  • monitor body condition score (BCS) routinely

Even small weight changes matter in this breed.


Early Warning Signs Owners Should Never Ignore

Appetite changes

British Longhairs are steady eaters. Skipping even one meal or eating less than normal can indicate dental discomfort, nausea, fever, or stress. Increased appetite may signal metabolic changes or endocrine conditions. Any deviation from their predictable eating habits deserves attention.

Weight gain or loss

Because their long coat can hide body changes, weight problems often go unnoticed. Slow, steady weight gain can lead to obesity before owners realize it. Sudden weight loss may indicate thyroid issues, kidney disease, dental pain, or digestive disorders. Monthly weighing is one of the most effective preventive tools for this breed.

Respiratory symptoms

British Longhairs are not brachycephalic, but some lines have slightly shorter noses or heavier facial structure inherited from British ancestry. Watch for:

  • noisy or congested breathing
  • open-mouth breathing
  • rapid breathing at rest
  • sneezing that persists

Any respiratory change should be evaluated promptly.

Lethargy or hiding

British Longhairs are calm but social. A sudden increase in hiding, avoidance, or lack of interest in normal routines can signal illness, pain, or emotional stress.

Sudden behavior changes

British Longhairs are predictable, making behavior shifts meaningful. Signs to watch for include:

  • irritability
  • clinginess
  • restlessness
  • withdrawal
  • reduced tolerance for touch

Behavior changes often appear before physical symptoms in cats.

Litter box issues

British Longhairs tend to have consistent litter habits. Take seriously any:

  • straining
  • small urine clumps
  • constipation
  • loose stool
  • missed box events

These changes can indicate urinary infections, crystals, kidney issues, digestive disease, or stress.

GI symptoms (vomiting, diarrhea)

While occasional hairballs are expected due to their coat type, frequent vomiting, regurgitation, or persistent diarrhea is not normal. These may indicate food sensitivities, parasites, GI inflammation, or infection.

Prompt evaluation prevents small issues from becoming emergencies.


How British Longhairs Show Illness Differently

Their calm temperament can mask symptoms

British Longhairs, like their shorthair relatives, are quiet, undramatic cats. They rarely vocalize or show obvious discomfort, even when something is wrong. Their relaxed nature means illness can progress quietly unless owners know what subtle signs to watch for.
Changes such as slightly reduced appetite, less grooming, or shorter play sessions may be the first—and only—indicators that something is off.

Importance of observing subtle changes

Small shifts in routine often reveal early illness in British Longhairs:

  • choosing lower perches
  • hiding more often
  • decreased interest in food
  • slowing down on stairs
  • new mats forming in the coat from reduced grooming

Because this breed does not typically seek attention when unwell, careful observation is essential. British Longhairs rely on their owners to notice these small but meaningful cues.

Why routine monitoring at home is crucial

Weekly checks help detect changes before they become serious. For a breed that hides discomfort well, monitoring at home provides valuable early insight. Track:

  • weight fluctuations
  • litter box patterns
  • appetite trends
  • coat condition
  • energy levels

These simple habits allow owners to catch health problems early—especially important for conditions like HCM, PKD, dental disease, and hairball-related GI issues.


Working With Your Breeder & Veterinarian

What Responsible British Longhair Breeders Screen For

HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy)

Reputable British Longhair breeders use echocardiograms to screen breeding cats for HCM. This helps reduce risk in offspring and provides valuable lineage information for future health monitoring.

PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease)

Responsible breeders perform DNA testing for PKD to ensure breeding cats are negative. PKD is caused by a dominant gene, meaning even one carrier can pass the disease to kittens.
PKD testing is one of the most important genetic safeguards in the breed.

Additional line-specific concerns

Every bloodline carries its own patterns. Ethical British Longhair breeders track:

  • dental tendencies
  • mild respiratory traits
  • joint stiffness
  • grooming-related sensitivities
  • metabolic trends

Breeders who understand and document these patterns help new owners know what to monitor as their kitten grows.


When to Contact Your Breeder

Growth or diet questions

British Longhairs grow slowly over 2–3 years. If you’re unsure whether your kitten’s weight is on track or need guidance transitioning to new foods, your breeder is a valuable resource.

Unusual kitten behaviors

Adjustment periods can bring temporary changes, but owners should reach out if they notice:

  • excessive hiding
  • sudden fearfulness
  • reduced play
  • unexpected aggression
  • difficulty adjusting to grooming

Breeders can clarify what is normal for the breed and when a veterinary visit may be needed.

Long-term hereditary concerns

If your veterinarian detects:

  • a heart murmur
  • early kidney irregularities
  • joint stiffness
  • persistent dental inflammation

inform your breeder. Responsible breeders track hereditary patterns so they can make informed pairing decisions and support new owners with long-term guidance.

See more: How to Choose a British Longhair Breeder and Avoid Scams”


Building a Long-Term Veterinary Plan

Annual exams for adults

Once your British Longhair reaches adulthood, yearly wellness exams are essential. These visits help identify early changes in:

  • weight and body condition
  • dental health
  • kidney values
  • heart function
  • mobility
  • coat quality

Routine exams allow for early intervention—especially important in a breed with a quiet temperament.

Bi-annual exams for seniors

British Longhairs become seniors around age 8. At this stage, twice-yearly exams help detect:

  • early kidney disease
  • arthritis
  • dental progression
  • subtle heart changes
  • thyroid concerns

Cats hide pain extremely well, so increased monitoring is beneficial.

When advanced imaging is appropriate

Your veterinarian may recommend advanced imaging if your British Longhair shows signs that a physical exam alone cannot explain:

  • abdominal ultrasound for kidney concerns
  • dental X-rays for suspected periodontal disease
  • echocardiograms for murmurs or breed-line HCM risks

These tools provide clarity early, allowing for more proactive and effective management.


British Longhair Medical FAQ

Are British Longhair cats healthy?

British Longhairs are generally healthy, but they share hereditary risks with British Shorthairs and breeds in their ancestry. The main conditions seen in the breed include HCM, PKD, obesity-related issues, dental disease, joint stiffness, and hairball-related gastrointestinal problems. Their semi-long coat also requires consistent grooming to avoid mats that can hide weight loss or discomfort. Responsible breeding and routine veterinary care significantly reduce the likelihood of severe disease.


What genetic diseases affect British Longhair cats?

The two primary hereditary conditions to be aware of are:

HCM (Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy)

A heart condition where the heart muscle thickens. It can be silent for years before symptoms appear.

PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease)

A dominant genetic condition that forms fluid-filled cysts in the kidneys. DNA testing prevents it from passing into future lines.

Other line-specific tendencies may include:

  • dental inflammation
  • subtle respiratory traits
  • joint stiffness due to body type
  • digestive sensitivity related to hair ingestion

Ethical breeders test for known conditions and track family health over generations.


How do I know if my British Longhair has HCM?

HCM cannot be diagnosed by appearance or basic physical exam alone. Early HCM often has no outward symptoms. Over time, some cats may show:

  • rapid breathing
  • decreased activity
  • open-mouth breathing
  • fainting or collapse
  • unusual fatigue

The only reliable screening method is an echocardiogram performed by a veterinary cardiologist. Breeding cats should be scanned regularly. Pet cats may need a baseline scan if a murmur is detected or if they come from high-risk lines.


How do I know if my British Longhair has PKD?

PKD is diagnosed through a simple DNA test that identifies the PKD1 gene mutation. This test is typically performed on breeding cats before producing a litter. In older cats, kidney ultrasound and bloodwork can detect changes if needed. Early signs to watch for include increased thirst, weight loss, poor appetite, or increased urination.


Do British Longhairs get hairballs more often than British Shorthairs?

Yes, many do. Their semi-long coat increases the amount of hair they ingest during grooming. Regular brushing, increased hydration, and veterinary-approved hairball preventatives reduce the risk of vomiting, constipation, or more serious blockages. Repeated vomiting or straining always warrants a veterinary exam.


Why is my British Longhair vomiting?

Common causes include:

  • hairball accumulation
  • dietary intolerance
  • eating too quickly
  • parasites
  • gastrointestinal inflammation
  • infection
  • kidney or liver disease

Occasional hairballs are expected, but repeated vomiting—especially if it includes food, bile, or foam—should be evaluated by a veterinarian.


Why is my British Longhair not eating?

A sudden change in appetite can indicate:

  • dental pain
  • nausea
  • fever
  • stress
  • hairball blockage
  • kidney disease
  • other internal issues

British Longhairs are steady eaters, so skipping even one meal is sometimes meaningful. If a cat refuses food for more than 24 hours, veterinary attention is recommended.


What dental problems do British Longhairs get?

British Longhairs can develop tartar and gum inflammation early if dental care is not established in kittenhood. Periodontal disease is common in adulthood and senior years. Signs include:

  • bad breath
  • drooling
  • dropping kibble
  • reluctance to eat crunchier foods
  • red, swollen gums

Prevention includes brushing, dental diets or chews, and professional cleanings as needed.


Do British Longhair cats get overweight easily?

Yes. Their stocky build, slower metabolism, and calm temperament make them prone to gradual weight gain. Their long coat can hide early changes, so monthly weighing is recommended. Obesity increases the risk of:

  • diabetes
  • arthritis
  • heart strain
  • reduced mobility

Portion control and daily short play sessions are key preventive measures.


How can I tell if my British Longhair is in pain?

Cats hide pain instinctively, and British Longhairs hide it particularly well. Subtle signs include:

  • reduced grooming
  • new mats forming
  • hiding more often
  • decreased jumping
  • slower movements
  • changes in litter box use
  • irritability or withdrawal
  • decreased appetite

If any of these occur, a veterinary exam is recommended.


What are early signs of kidney disease in British Longhair cats?

Kidney disease may develop in older British Longhairs. Early signs include:

  • increased thirst
  • frequent urination
  • weight loss
  • reduced appetite
  • mild vomiting
  • poor coat quality

Bloodwork and urine testing detect changes before symptoms become severe.


Do British Longhairs have breathing issues?

While not brachycephalic, some lines have slightly shorter noses or heavier facial structures. Occasional mild snoring may occur, but persistent respiratory noise is not normal. Contact a vet if you notice:

  • noisy breathing at rest
  • open-mouth breathing
  • congested breathing
  • rapid breathing

Respiratory change is always important in cats.


How often should British Longhairs get veterinary checkups?

  • Kittens: every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks
  • Adults: yearly wellness exams
  • Seniors (8+ years): twice yearly exams, including bloodwork and urine testing

Regular exams catch changes early, especially in breeds with quiet temperaments.


What health screenings should British Longhair breeders perform?

Reputable breeders test and monitor for:

  • HCM: echocardiograms every 12–24 months
  • PKD: DNA testing
  • Dental and joint tendencies: tracked through lineage
  • Overall line health: monitoring patterns over multiple generations

Buyers should always ask for proof of testing.


What should I do if my British Longhair is breathing fast?

Fast breathing (tachypnea) can be a symptom of:

  • stress
  • fever
  • heart disease
  • fluid around the lungs
  • respiratory infection

If your cat is open-mouth breathing, breathing rapidly at rest, or breathing noisily, it should be treated as urgent.


Why is my British Longhair hiding more than usual?

This behavior often indicates:

  • pain
  • nausea
  • stress
  • fear
  • early infection
  • environmental changes

British Longhairs are not typically dramatic, so hiding often appears before other symptoms.


Are British Longhair cats prone to urinary problems?

They can experience urinary concerns if overweight, dehydrated, or stressed. Signs include:

  • small or frequent urine clumps
  • straining
  • blood in urine
  • vocalization in the box
  • missing the litter box

Male cats can develop urinary blockages, which is a medical emergency.


Do British Longhair cats need special diets?

They do not require prescription food unless recommended by a veterinarian, but they benefit from:

  • higher-moisture diets (wet food daily)
  • controlled calories
  • quality animal protein
  • hairball support formulas if needed

A balanced diet prevents obesity and supports their coat and kidney health.


How long do British Longhair cats live?

Most British Longhairs live 12–18+ years with good care. Some reach their early twenties. Longevity is influenced by genetics, weight management, dental care, kidney function, and access to regular veterinary exams.


What age do British Longhairs become seniors?

British Longhairs become seniors around 8 years old. At that stage, bi-annual exams, dental care, and monitoring hydration and mobility become more important.


What symptoms are never normal in British Longhair cats?

Seek veterinary attention immediately for:

  • open-mouth breathing
  • nonstop vomiting
  • inability to urinate
  • collapse or fainting
  • no appetite for more than 24 hours
  • blood in urine or stool
  • severe constipation
  • sudden paralysis or dragging a limb

These symptoms require prompt medical care.

Looking for a British Longhair or British Shorthair kitten?

At Almonte Cats, our kittens are raised in-home, fully health tested, and intentionally paired to represent the very best of the British breed.

If you’d like to be considered for an upcoming litter, you’re welcome to explore our available kittens or submit an application below.

View Available British Kittens

More British Longhair Resources

See more posts about the British Longhair breed:

More British Cat Breed Articles from Almonte Cats

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