The White British Shorthair: Featuring Cat and Kitten Info, Pictures and More
British Shorthair cats are famous for their round faces, copper eyes, gentle temperaments, and plush coats – but can British Shorthair cats be white? Is the white British Shorthair color legitimate?
The answer surprises many: yes, white British Shorthair cats exist, and unlike in some breeds, the solid white coloration is fully accepted, well established, and deeply rooted in the breed’s development.
The white British Shorthair is striking, luminous, and loved by families who prefer a clean, luxurious look. Their thick, plush coats make the white color appear full and soft, and their eyes – whether copper, gold, blue, or odd-eyed – stand out beautifully against the snowy fur. Here, we will explain everything you want to know about white British Shorthair cats, color genetics, how solid white coats develop, and what to expect from white British Shorthair kittens, plus a detailed comparison of how white fits alongside other British Shorthair colors.
White British Shorthair Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Color | Solid white or high-white masking underlying color |
| Eye Colors | Copper, gold, blue, or odd-eyed |
| Coat Type | Plush double coat; dense, crisp texture |
| Temperament | Calm, gentle, independent, people-oriented |
| Average Weight | Males 12–17 lbs; females 8–14 lbs |
| Rarity Level | Moderate to rare; produced in limited numbers |
| Breed Status | Fully recognized in TICA, CFA, and GCCF |
| Grooming Needs | 2–3 brushings per week; occasional spot cleaning |
| Genetics | Dominant white gene (W) covering base color |
| Hearing Considerations | Blue and odd-eyed kittens may need hearing checks |
| Best For | Indoor homes, families, apartments, quiet households |
| Kitten Cost | Varies by breeder, pedigree, and eye color; usually premium due to rarity |
Searching for your own British Shorthair Kitten?
If you are here to find your very own British Shorthair baby, including rare white British Shorthair kittens and other beautiful colors, check out our Purebred British Shorthair Kittens for Sale.
At Almonte Cats, every kitten is:
- TICA / CFA registered from fully health-tested parents
- Raised in-home for confident, affectionate temperaments
- Vet-checked, vaccinated, and microchipped before going home
Reserve early – our litters are produced in limited numbers each year to preserve quality, true British Shorthair type, and excellent temperament. We currently specialize in golden British Shorthairs in both short and long hair types, with occasional litters that may carry or produce white British Shorthair kittens depending on our pairings and color genetics.
See British Shorthair Kittens and Application
Can British Shorthair Cats Be White?
Yes. British Shorthair cats can be white, and the solid white British Shorthair color is fully recognized and embraced within major registries such as TICA, CFA, and GCCF. The white coat appears as a solid, even, and unbroken color from kittenhood through adulthood when viewed on the surface, even though the genetics underneath may carry another color or pattern.
Most British Shorthairs carry stable full-color genetics that express pigment evenly throughout the coat. White British Shorthairs, however, express a special “white masking” gene that covers the underlying color and pattern with white. Rather than being “colorless,” a white British Shorthair is simply a cat whose true color has been hidden by dominant white or high white spotting.
This makes white British Shorthairs both traditional and fully purebred when bred from registered British Shorthair lines. Solid white British Shorthair cats are not crossbreds or experimental types – they sit right alongside blue, black, lilac, and other classic colors in the breed standard.
Tip: Some breeders refer to them simply as solid white British Shorthairs. They share the same calm temperament, thick bone, round cheeks, and plush coat as any other British Shorthair – the only difference is the snowy, luminous coat and their range of eye colors, which may be copper, gold, blue, or odd-eyed.
White British Shorthair Kitten Price, Availability, and What Affects Cost
White British Shorthair kittens are beautiful and rare, which often makes families wonder what a fair price looks like and how quickly they will be able to find one. In most reputable catteries, a white British Shorthair kitten will be priced similarly to other high-quality British Shorthair colors, with some variation depending on eye color, pedigree, and whether the kitten is placed as a pet, show, or potential breeding cat.
Expect a purebred, registered white British Shorthair kitten from health-tested parents to cost more than kittens from unregistered sellers or online marketplaces. Responsible breeders invest in registration, genetic testing, veterinary care, and early socialization, and those costs are reflected in the final price. Blue-eyed or odd-eyed white British Shorthair kittens may be priced at the higher end of the range because of their striking appearance and limited availability.
White British Kitten Waiting Timeframe
Availability is another factor. Many catteries only produce a white British Shorthair litter occasionally, if at all. Some planned pairings may carry the genetics for white or high white, but there is no guarantee that every litter will produce white kittens. For that reason, most families who want a white British Shorthair kitten will join a waitlist and be prepared to wait for the right pairing and the right kitten.
If you are serious about adding a white British Shorthair kitten to your home, the best approach is to:
- Connect with a registered breeder who works with British Shorthair color genetics
- Ask how often their lines produce white British Shorthair kittens
- Join a waitlist and be flexible on timing and eye color
This way, when a British Shorthair kitten becomes available in the color you are searching for, you are already pre-approved and ready to reserve.
You can view our current litters, upcoming pairings, and British Shorthair kittens available here and submit your application if you are hoping for a future British Shorthair.
Understanding British Shorthair Cat Colors
Traditional British Shorthairs come in an enormous color range – one of the largest of any breed. The most recognized colors include:
- Blue
- Black
- Lilac
- Chocolate
- Red
- Cream
- White
These can appear in multiple patterns:
- Solid
- Bicolor
- Tortoiseshell
- Shaded
- Smoke
- Tabby
Each combination creates dozens of visually distinct British Shorthair looks, from the iconic “British Blue” to silver-shaded varieties and rare solid lilac British Shorthair cats.
White British Shorthair cats fit cleanly within these recognized classifications and are considered classic, not experimental. In many breeding programs, white has been present for decades, either in the form of solid white British Shorthairs or British Shorthair bicolors with large white areas.
Seen in breed standards across major registries, white is valued for its clarity, evenness, and the dramatic way it frames the British Shorthair’s expressive eyes. Copper, gold, blue, and odd-eyed combinations on a white British Shorthair create one of the most eye-catching looks in the breed.
White British Shorthair vs. Traditional Colors: Comparison Guide
| Feature | White British Shorthair | Traditional British Shorthair Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Registry Classification (TICA / CFA / GCCF) | Fully recognized as a standard solid or bicolor color class | Fully recognized; includes blue, lilac, cream, red, etc. |
| Accepted Colors | Solid white; white with underlying masked color; high-white bicolor | Wide color spectrum from dilute to non-dilute |
| Pattern | Solid white or white with patches of color (bicolor, harlequin, van) | Solid, bicolor, tortie, shaded, smoke, tabby |
| Eye Color | Copper, gold, blue, or odd-eyed | Copper, gold, blue (in bicolors), or green (in silvers) |
| Coat Texture | Plush, dense, and crisp – white coats often look especially soft | Plush and dense across all colors |
| Temperament | Calm, affectionate, sturdy – identical to all BSH | Calm, affectionate, sturdy – breed hallmark |
| Genetic Makeup | Dominant white or high white spotting masking the base color | Dilute or non-dilute pigments directly visible |
| Show Eligibility | Fully showable in all major registries | Fully showable depending on category |
| Registration | TICA, CFA, GCCF recognized | TICA, CFA, GCCF recognized |
| Rarity | Moderate to rare – produced in smaller numbers than blue | Blue is the most common; other colors vary in rarity |
| Breed Authenticity | 100% British Shorthair lineage | 100% British Shorthair lineage |
| Best For | Families who love a striking, luminous, snow-white coat | Families seeking classic or traditional colors |
Summary
Both white British Shorthairs and traditional British Shorthairs share the same loving, calm temperament that defines this iconic breed. The only difference lies in how their color genes express across the coat. The white British Shorthair brings a clean, luminous appearance and eye-catching eye colors while maintaining all the classic traits that make British Shorthairs beloved worldwide.
The Difference Between Shaded/Smoke and Solid British Shorthairs
What Is a British Shorthair Shaded or Smoke Coat?
A shaded or smoke British Shorthair has a lighter undercoat with darker tipping at the ends of the fur, creating a dramatic shimmering effect. In smoke cats, the contrast is even more pronounced – dark on top with a bright silver-white undercoat. This stunning contrast is created by the inhibitor gene, which restricts pigment along part of the hair shaft.
That is why shaded and smoke kittens often lighten as their coats develop – the undercoat emerges more clearly as they grow. These cats are not white British Shorthairs; they simply have a strong silver undercoat that shows through the pigmented tips.
What Is a Solid British Shorthair?
A solid British Shorthair has even, full-body coloration from nose to tail with no pattern visible on the surface. Each hair is the same color from root to tip, and there is no pale undercoat, no tipping, and no contrast.
In the case of a solid white British Shorthair, the hair shaft appears entirely white from root to tip because the dominant white gene masks the underlying pigment. In bicolors or high-white cats, sections of the body are pure white while other areas show color or pattern.
Solid British Shorthairs are purebred and highly valued in the show world for their clarity, depth of pigment, and uniform coloration. Many families love white British Shorthairs for their bright, snow-like appearance and the way their eye color stands out against the clean coat.
White British Shorthair Types Explained
White British Shorthairs come in several beautiful variations depending on genetics, eye color, and pattern expression:
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Solid White British Shorthair | Pure white from ears to tail, with no visible patches of color. Eyes may be copper, gold, blue, or odd-eyed. |
| White Bicolor British Shorthair | White areas combined with patches of color such as blue, black, or tabby. Often features a white chest, legs, or mask. |
| Harlequin or Van White British Shorthair | Very high white pattern with small patches of color, often on the head or tail. |
| White British Shorthair with Odd Eyes | One blue eye and one copper or gold eye, often associated with dominant white genetics. |
| White British Shorthair with Hidden Color | Genetically carries another color or pattern under the white coat, revealed only through DNA testing or breeding outcomes. |
Each variation maintains the British Shorthair’s classic temperament: calm, confident, affectionate, and loyal, no matter the eye color or the amount of white. White British Shorthair kittens and adults are chosen for their personality as much as their look, making them ideal cats for families who want both beauty and stability.
White British Shorthair Recognition Across Registries
The British Shorthair breed includes one of the largest recognized color ranges in the cat world. Unlike some breeds that restrict color classes, white British Shorthairs are fully accepted.
Major cat associations – including TICA, CFA, and GCCF – recognize solid white British Shorthairs and white bicolor British Shorthairs as legitimate varieties within the breed standard. Eye colors such as copper, gold, blue, and odd-eyed are also documented and accepted when paired with solid white coats.
This classification gives breeders and families the ability to:
- Preserve genetic diversity within British Shorthair lines
- Register every recognized color properly, including solid white
- Track lineage and produce consistent, healthy kittens
A white British Shorthair is not a different type of cat – it is a fully purebred British Shorthair with classic structure, temperament, and conformation, simply expressing one of the breed’s most distinctive and luminous colors.
White British Shorthair Eye Colors – Separating Myth from Reality
Traditional British Shorthairs in solid colors are famous for their rich copper and gold eyes. With white British Shorthairs, there is a wider range of eye colors, including:
- Deep copper
- Gold
- Blue
- Odd-eyed (one blue, one copper or gold)
Unlike black British Shorthairs, which never keep blue eyes into adulthood, white British Shorthair cats can legitimately have blue or odd-colored eyes and still be purebred British Shorthairs. These eye colors are linked to the dominant white gene, which can affect pigment development in the eyes and ears.
Solid white British Shorthair cats with blue or odd eyes may have a higher risk of congenital deafness. Responsible breeders are aware of this and may perform hearing testing (such as BAER testing) on white British Shorthair kittens that will be kept for breeding or placed in homes.
If you see a “white British Shorthair” with blue or odd eyes, this does not automatically mean the cat is mixed or impure. Instead, focus on verifying pedigree, structure, and breeder credentials to confirm that the British Shorthair kitten comes from registered British Shorthair parents.
Are White British Shorthairs Deaf? Hearing, Health, and Testing
One of the most common questions about white British Shorthair cats is whether they are more likely to be deaf. This concern comes from the fact that in many breeds, blue-eyed or odd-eyed white cats can have an increased risk of congenital deafness related to the dominant white gene.
Not every white British Shorthair is deaf, and not every blue-eyed white British Shorthair will have hearing problems. Many white British Shorthairs with copper or gold eyes have normal hearing, and even some blue-eyed or odd-eyed individuals hear perfectly well in both ears. However, because there is a known association between certain forms of the dominant white gene and deafness in cats, responsible breeders pay close attention to hearing when working with white lines.
If you are considering a white British Shorthair kitten, especially one with blue or odd eyes, ask the breeder:
- Whether the parents have normal hearing
- Whether any previous white kittens in the line have had hearing issues
- Whether BAER (Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response) testing is used for breeding candidates
BAER testing is a specialized hearing test that measures electrical activity in the brain in response to sound and is considered the gold standard for detecting congenital deafness in cats and dogs. Even if your breeder does not BAER test every pet kitten, they should be open and transparent about hearing in their British Shorthair lines and willing to discuss it honestly.
For most families, a white British Shorthair with normal hearing will live the same comfortable, relaxed life as any other British Shorthair. In rare cases where a cat is partially or fully deaf, these cats can still make excellent companions in indoor homes that are set up with a little extra awareness and care.
British Shorthair Color Chart
| Color Type | Pattern | Eye Color | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| White (Solid) | Solid | Copper, Gold, Blue, Odd-eyed | Dominant white masks underlying color; classic solid white appearance |
| White Bicolor | Bicolor | Copper, Gold, Blue, Odd-eyed | Large white areas with patches of color (blue, black, tabby, etc.) |
| Black (Solid) | Solid | Copper, Gold, Orange | Deep pigment with plush texture |
| Black Smoke | Smoke | Gold to Copper | Pale undercoat gives dramatic smoke contrast |
| Black Silver | Shaded / Tipped | Green, Hazel | Crisp silver undercoat with black tipping |
| Blue (Dilute Black) | Solid | Copper | Soft gray-blue tone; most iconic British Shorthair color |
| Chocolate | Solid | Copper | Warm cocoa tone |
| Lilac | Solid | Copper | Pale lavender-gray |
| Cream | Solid | Copper | Dilute red tone |
| Black Tortie (Females) | Tortie | Copper | Black with red or cream patches |
For a visual reference, many breeders offer a full British Shorthair color chart with examples of every color and pattern, including white, silver, and shaded varieties, to help families understand how white British Shorthairs fit into the larger color spectrum.
White British Shorthair Kittens: What to Expect
White British Shorthair kittens are born visibly pale and stay white as they grow. In some lines, a faint smudge of color may appear on the top of the head in early kittenhood, giving breeders a clue about the underlying color. This mark often fades as the white coat fully develops.
Personality
Just like any British Shorthair, white British Shorthair kittens are calm, affectionate, and observant. They love being near their people, enjoy quiet companionship, and adapt easily to homes with children or other pets. The coat color does not change their temperament – white British Shorthair kittens are steady, gentle, and deeply loyal, just like their blue or golden relatives.
Size
Expect males to reach 12–17 pounds and females around 8–14 pounds, with full maturity at 3–5 years old. The British Shorthair is a slow-maturing breed, and white British Shorthairs develop the same strong bone structure, broad chest, and round features that define the breed.
Coat Care
Their coat is thick, dense, and crisp. On a white British Shorthair, the plush coat can look especially soft and cloud-like when properly groomed.
Brush two to three times weekly to support shedding cycles and maintain the coat’s plushness. Because they are white, you may also want to:
- Wipe the face gently to reduce tear staining if present
- Keep the environment clean to prevent coat discoloration
- Use a gentle grooming spray or wipe approved for cats if needed
Regular grooming helps British Shorthair kittens and adults keep their snow-white coat looking fresh and luxurious.
The Genetics Behind White British Shorthairs
The white coat in British Shorthairs is most often created by the dominant white gene (W), which masks the cat’s underlying color and pattern. Instead of altering pigment like dilute genes do, dominant white acts like a “cover,” causing the fur to appear entirely white even though the cat is genetically blue, black, tabby, or another color beneath the surface.
In simple terms:
- Solid White British Shorthair: Carries the dominant white gene (W-) that masks the base color
- White Bicolor British Shorthair: Often a combination of white spotting (S) and a base color such as blue, black, or tabby
- Colored British Shorthair: Shows the real base color without masking
This means a white British Shorthair is genetically colored under the white coat. Two white British Shorthair parents may produce white kittens, colored kittens, or bicolor kittens depending on their genes.
Because the dominant white gene can be associated with congenital deafness in blue-eyed and odd-eyed cats, responsible breeders are careful when pairing white British Shorthairs and may test kittens for hearing before breeding or placement.
Many breeders intentionally preserve white lines to maintain genetic diversity and to support the full range of recognized British Shorthair colors, including this highly desired solid white look.
White British Shorthair Mix Cats
If you have seen a “white British Shorthair mix” online – especially those with very different head shape or coat texture – it is likely a cross between a British Shorthair and another breed such as a Domestic Shorthair, Persian, Scottish Fold, or American Shorthair.
Mixed cats may resemble British Shorthairs, but typically differ in:
- Eye color: may lack the classic copper-gold glow in non-white areas
- Head shape: narrower, less round, with a less pronounced cheek structure
- Bone structure: lighter, more athletic, or more angular
- Coat feel: may lack the signature “crisp” plush coat of a true British Shorthair
Always request pedigree papers or DNA testing if you are unsure whether your cat is a true British Shorthair or a mix. Purebred white British Shorthairs have distinctive traits – round cheeks, thick bone, cobby body, plush fur, and a calm, solid presence.
Why White British Shorthairs Are Rare
White British Shorthairs are less common than iconic colors like blue or popular shades like silver-shaded, golden, or lilac. There are several reasons for this:
- Many breeders focus heavily on producing the traditional “British Blue,” which has become the global face of the breed
- White can be more challenging to manage in breeding due to the potential link between dominant white and deafness in some lines
- Breeding goals often center on silver, golden, and dilute lines, which are in strong demand
As a result, white British Shorthair kittens are produced in smaller numbers, not because the color is excluded, but because fewer catteries specialize in it.
Among pet owners, however, solid white British Shorthairs are highly sought after. Their luminous coats and striking eye colors create a clean, luxurious look that stands out from every other color.
Reserve early if you are specifically hoping for a British Shorthair kitten, as these kittens tend to be requested far in advance due to limited numbers each year.
The Beauty of the White British Shorthair
Even though they are less common than blues and lilacs, white British Shorthairs capture the same classic charm and calm temperament that define the breed. Their coats glow under natural light, creating a soft, cloud-like appearance.
Their eyes – whether copper, gold, blue, or mismatched – contrast beautifully with the white fur, giving them a luminous, almost storybook look.
White British Shorthairs embody the breed’s defining qualities:
- Steady temperament
- Quiet confidence
- Strong, muscular build
- Plush, dense coat
- Deep loyalty to their families
They prove that the appeal of the British Shorthair is not limited to one famous color. It is rooted in character, structure, and peaceful companionship, no matter whether the coat is blue, golden, or pure white.
How to Identify a True White British Shorthair Cat or Kitten
Look for:
- Pedigree papers from TICA, CFA, or GCCF
- A registered cattery name (avoid unverified or backyard listings)
- Breed-specific features: round cheeks, thick bone, cobby body, crisp coat
- Early kitten photographs showing a consistent white coat, with or without a small color spot on the head that may fade
Ask the breeder about:
- Hearing testing on blue-eyed or odd-eyed white kittens
- Health testing for HCM and PKD in the parents
- Registration and breeding goals for white British Shorthairs
Avoid scammers claiming “micro white British Shorthairs,” “rare teacup white British Shorthairs,” or kittens priced suspiciously low without paperwork. Purebred white British Shorthairs come from carefully planned matings and reputable catteries that stand behind their kittens.
Always verify breeder reputation, health testing, and registration before placing a deposit on a white British Shorthair kitten.
Choosing a White British Shorthair Kitten
When adopting a white British Shorthair, prioritize health, temperament, and proper socialization over color alone:
- Ask for DNA and color testing if you are curious about the underlying masked color
- Request HCM and PKD health testing for the parents
- Ask whether any blue-eyed or odd-eyed white kittens have had hearing checks
- Ensure kittens are raised in-home, not in cages
- Look for proper early socialization and litter training
- Expect a written health guarantee
At Almonte Cats, every British Shorthair kitten – whether golden, shaded, bicolor, or carrying white – is:
- Registered
- Microchipped
- Vaccinated
- Vet-checked
- Raised underfoot with structured socialization
Whether you choose a classic golden, a shaded silver, or hope for a rare white British Shorthair, every kitten receives the same level of care, attention, and lifetime support.
Summary: Can British Shorthair Cats Be White?
Yes – British Shorthair cats can be white, and in this breed the color is fully recognized, traditional, and firmly established in major registries. White British Shorthairs are solid or high-white cats whose underlying color and pattern are masked by the dominant white or high white spotting genes. They retain plush coats, sturdy builds, and classic British Shorthair structure.
White British Shorthairs are perfect for families who value uniqueness, clean aesthetics, and a luminous, snow-white appearance that is still unmistakably British Shorthair in personality and temperament.
Related British Shorthair Colors and Patterns
- Black British Shorthair
- Brown Tabby British Shorthair
- Russian Blue vs British Shorthair
- Lilac British Shorthair
- Blue British Shorthair
- Orange British Shorthair
- Chocolate British Shorthair
- Intro to All British Shorthair Colors
- Golden British Shorthair Kittens
Myths and Misconceptions About White British Shorthairs
“All white British Shorthairs are deaf.”
Not true. While some white cats with certain genetic backgrounds and blue or odd eyes can have an increased risk of deafness, many white British Shorthairs hear perfectly well in both ears. Copper-eyed and gold-eyed white cats are especially likely to have normal hearing. Deafness is not guaranteed and should be discussed honestly with a knowledgeable breeder.
“White British Shorthairs are albino cats.”
False. Albinism and dominant white are not the same thing. Albino animals lack pigment entirely, including in the eyes, which appear very pale blue or pinkish. A white British Shorthair has pigment; it is just masked in the coat by the dominant white or high white spotting gene. Their eyes still show normal pigment colors such as copper, gold, or blue.
“White British Shorthairs have bad personalities.”
There is no evidence that coat color affects personality in British Shorthairs. White British Shorthairs share the same calm, balanced temperament as their blue, golden, or silver littermates when they come from the same careful breeding program and are raised with proper socialization.
“White British Shorthair coats are impossible to keep clean.”
A white coat will show dirt more easily than a dark one, but British Shorthairs are naturally clean, low-maintenance cats. With a stable indoor environment, a good diet, and regular brushing, most white British Shorthairs stay bright and tidy without constant bathing or special products.
“White British Shorthairs are not real British Shorthairs.”
White is a recognized color in the British Shorthair breed. A white British Shorthair with registered parents, proper structure, and correct coat type is every bit as purebred as a blue or golden cat. Color does not change breed identity.
Frequently Asked Questions About White British Shorthair Cats
Can British Shorthair Cats Be White?
Yes. British Shorthair cats can be white, and solid white is one of the officially recognized colors of the breed. Unlike shaded or smoke British Shorthairs where only the undercoat is pale, white British Shorthairs carry genes that fully mask the underlying color. This creates a clean, snow-white appearance across the coat. Solid white British Shorthair cats are fully accepted by TICA, CFA, and GCCF breed standards and are considered purebred British Shorthairs.
White is not new or experimental within the breed — it is a legitimate, established color class.
What Makes a British Shorthair Purebred?
A purebred British Shorthair must come from registered British Shorthair parents with a provable lineage through TICA, CFA, or GCCF. The white coat is simply a color expression, not a separate breed. Purebred white British Shorthairs have the same bone structure, temperament, round cheeks, and plush double coat as every other British Shorthair.
Color alone never determines purity — pedigree, conformation, and registration do.
Are White British Shorthairs Recognized by Cat Registries?
Yes. White British Shorthairs are recognized as an official color class under all major cat registries, including CFA, TICA, GCCF, ACFA, and FIFe. Both solid white and white bicolor British Shorthairs can be fully registered, titled, and shown.
White is considered a traditional color in the breed — not rare due to genetics, but produced in smaller numbers due to selective breeding choices.
Do White British Shorthairs Have Blue Eyes?
They can. White British Shorthair cats may have copper, gold, blue, or odd eyes (one blue, one copper). These eye colors are linked to the dominant white gene, not to colorpoint ancestry.
Blue-eyed and odd-eyed British Shorthairs are still purebred when they come from registered lines. Because blue and odd eyes can sometimes be associated with reduced hearing, responsible breeders may screen kittens to ensure they are placed properly.
What Is the Difference Between a Traditional British and a White British Shorthair?
Traditional British Shorthairs appear in colors such as blue, lilac, cream, black, and silver, all of which show pigment directly in the coat. A white British Shorthair, however, carries masking genetics that hide the underlying pigment, making the coat appear fully white.
Temperament, structure, and personality remain identical across both types — calm, affectionate, sturdy, and people-oriented. The main difference is color and the broader range of eye colors available in white British Shorthairs.
Are White British Shorthairs Rare?
Yes. White British Shorthairs are moderately rare, not because the genetics are uncommon, but because fewer breeders actively use white lines. Many catteries focus on high-demand colors such as blue, silver-shaded, or golden, and the dominant white gene requires thoughtful use due to its association with deafness in some lines.
As a result, white British Shorthair kittens are produced less frequently and are often reserved through waitlists long before they are publicly listed. Their rarity and striking appearance make them especially desirable among cat lovers seeking a unique British Shorthair.
Can a White British Shorthair Be Shown?
Yes. White British Shorthairs are eligible for full competition in CFA, TICA, GCCF, ACFA, and FIFe. They are entered in the solid or appropriate white classes and judged by the same breed standards as all British Shorthairs.
A show-quality white British Shorthair must have a clear, even coat without staining and must present the classic British cat build, head shape, and dense double coat.
What Eye Colors Do White British Shorthairs Come In?
White British Shorthairs can have copper, gold, blue, or odd eyes. This variety is unique to white and high-white cats, where the dominant white gene influences pigmentation in the iris. Copper and gold remain traditional for the breed, while blue and odd eyes offer a distinctive and dramatic look.
Eye color does not affect purity or temperament and is considered one of the most beautiful variations in white British Shorthair cats.
Are White British Shorthairs Different in Personality?
No. White British Shorthairs share the same calm, gentle, and affectionate temperament seen in every color. Coat color does not influence personality.
Whether the cat is blue, lilac, golden, black, or white, British Shorthairs remain known for their steady nature, quiet confidence, independence, and loyalty. Temperament is shaped by genetics, early socialization, and environment — not color.
How Can I Tell If a White British Shorthair Is Authentic?
To confirm authenticity, request pedigree papers from TICA, CFA, or GCCF showing that both parents are registered British Shorthairs. Reputable breeders also provide documentation for health testing, lineage, and registration status.
Authentic white British Shorthairs display:
- round cheeks
- strong, cobby body
- dense, plush double coat
- balanced bone structure
If the cat appears narrow, fine-boned, or lacks the classic British Shorthair head type, it may be a mix. When in doubt, DNA testing or breeder verification can clarify.
Do White British Shorthairs Have Long Coats?
White British Shorthairs in the British Shorthair breed have the same plush, dense short coat typical of the breed. The coat is crisp, velvety, and thick. Some breeders also produce British Longhairs — a related breed with a longer coat — which can also come in white.
Always check whether a kitten is registered as British Shorthair (short hair) or British Longhair before purchasing.
Why Do Some Breeders Not List White British Shorthairs?
Many breeders prioritize breeding programs built around popular colors like blue, lilac, golden, or silver-shaded British Shorthairs. Because white kittens appear less frequently, they may not be listed publicly.
Another reason is that some breeders prefer to avoid the additional considerations that come with the dominant white gene, such as managing hearing testing for blue-eyed or odd-eyed kittens.
Often, white British Shorthair kittens are placed directly from waitlists and never make it to public pages.
What Makes White British Shorthairs Special?
White British Shorthairs combine the classic British Shorthair temperament — calm, loyal, loving, and dignified — with the striking beauty of a pure white coat. Their eye colors, whether copper, gold, blue, or odd-eyed, create a dramatic contrast against the clean fur.
Because white British Shorthairs are produced in smaller numbers, they appeal to families looking for a British Shorthair that feels unique, refined, and visually unforgettable.
Do White British Shorthairs Behave Differently From Other Colors?
No. Coat color does not influence personality or behavior in this breed. White British Shorthairs show the same quiet independence, affection, and stable temperament that makes the breed ideal for families, seniors, and busy households.
They are calm, patient cats that bond closely with their people and thrive in predictable indoor environments.
Why Do White British Shorthairs Look Different in Photos?
White coats reflect light differently depending on the environment. Under warm indoor lighting, the coat may appear soft or creamy. In bright natural light, the fur looks crisp, bright, and clean. Texture, coat density, and shadows all influence how the coat photographs.
This natural variation is one reason white British Shorthairs are so photogenic. The plush coat shows depth and softness in every photo.
Are White British Shorthairs More Prone to Health Issues?
White British Shorthairs are generally as healthy as other colors when bred from health-tested parents. The main additional consideration is the potential link between the dominant white gene and congenital deafness, especially in blue-eyed or odd-eyed cats.
Responsible breeders understand this and may use BAER testing, careful pairing, and transparent communication. Otherwise, health recommendations are the same as for all British Shorthairs, including HCM and PKD screening.
Are White British Shorthairs Good Family Pets?
Yes. White British Shorthairs make excellent family companions. Their steady temperament, quiet nature, and sturdy build suit homes with children, seniors, or other pets. They are affectionate without being clingy and are known for forming strong bonds with their families.
A white British Shorthair offers everything the breed is known for — gentle personality, calm demeanor, and loyalty — with the added elegance of a luminous white coat.
Searching for a Cute British Shorthair Kitten?
If you are here to find your very own British Shorthair baby, including rare white British Shorthair kittens when available, check out our Purebred British Shorthair Kittens for Sale.
At Almonte Cats, every kitten is:
- TICA and CFA registered from fully health-tested parents
- Raised in-home for confident, affectionate temperaments
- Vet-checked, vaccinated, and microchipped before going home
Reserve early – our litters are produced in limited numbers each year to preserve quality and true British Shorthair type.
Learn More About British Shorthair Cats
- British Shorthair Lifespan
- British Shorthair Personality
- British Shorthair Kitten Growth Stages
- British Shorthair vs Ragdoll
Sources & References
Vet Manual – Feline Genetics & Brachycephalic Considerations
The International Cat Association (TICA) – https://tica.org
Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) – https://cfa.org
British Shorthair Breed Council – Breed Standard & Guidance
Paw Print Genetics – https://www.pawprintgenetics.com
Optimal Selection Genetic Testing – https://www.wisdompanel.com/optimal-selection
International Cat Care – https://icatcare.org
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