Official ICCF Breed Description
Brief Historical Background
The European Shorthair is one of the oldest natural cat breeds in Europe, its development taking place over many centuries under natural conditions. It is believed that the ancestors of these cats arrived on the European continent together with the Romans, who used them to protect grain supplies from rodents. Over time, they adapted to different climates, developing a strong bone structure, stable immunity, and a balanced temperament. In the 20th century, systematic work began to standardize the breed, allowing the European Shorthair to be recognized as an independent type distinguished by harmonious proportions, natural beauty, and adaptability to life alongside humans.
General Appearance
The European Shorthair is a harmoniously built cat of medium to large size with strong bones and well-developed musculature. It conveys an impression of strength, health, and natural beauty without excessive refinement. The body is slightly elongated but not overly long; limbs are of medium length, and the tail is proportionate to the body. The head is round with pronounced cheeks, smooth lines, and a firm chin. The coat is short, dense, glossy, and close-lying. The breed is noted for endurance, hardiness, and a natural charm inherited from its ancient ancestors that protected homes and fields from pests.
Important Proportions
The European Shorthair is characterized by balanced proportions reflecting a harmony of power and grace. The body length slightly exceeds the height at the withers; the torso is strong but not heavy. Limbs are of medium length, proportionate to the body, with round, steady paws. The tail is about two-thirds of the body length, gradually tapering toward the tip. The head is round, with balanced width and length; cheeks are well defined; the muzzle neither elongated nor shortened. Ears are medium-sized, set well apart. All proportions should create a solid, harmonious appearance without imbalance.
Behavior and Character
The European Shorthair has a calm, even, and friendly disposition. It retains its natural independence but adapts perfectly to domestic life. Intelligent and observant, it has a well-developed hunting instinct. The breed shows neither excessive aggression nor timidity; it is confident yet unobtrusive. It gets along well with other pets and children, enjoys interaction with people, and remains self-sufficient. Its adaptability allows it to feel comfortable both in an apartment and in a rural environment. Active, resilient, and curious, it is affectionate and loyal to its owner.
Head
The head is round and well proportioned, without sharp angles or excessive heaviness. The forehead is slightly curved; the transition from forehead to nose is smooth and without a distinct stop. Cheekbones are developed but do not weigh down the expression. The muzzle is of medium length, neither pointed nor short, with a strong chin and correct bite. The ratio of head width to length is balanced, giving a look of strength and nobility combined with natural simplicity and expressiveness.
Facial Part
The facial features are soft and harmonious, fitting naturally into the overall round shape. Cheeks are moderately full, especially in adult males, giving an impression of strength. The chin is strong but not coarse; in profile, the line from chin to muzzle is smooth. The nose is straight and of medium length, with an even width from bridge to tip. Lips are neat and tight. The overall facial expression is attentive and calm, emphasizing the breed’s intelligence and natural charm.
Eyes
Eyes are large, round, and widely spaced, giving an expression of attentiveness and gentleness. The color should be vivid and rich—ranging from golden and amber to green—and harmonize with the coat. The gaze is lively, intelligent, and calm. The eye sockets are well defined but neither sunken nor protruding. The distance between the eyes equals roughly the width of one eye. The shape and color of the eyes enhance the breed’s natural beauty.
Ears
Ears are medium in size, broad at the base with slightly rounded tips. They are set high and upright, but not too close together, maintaining head balance. The inner surface is covered with fine hair; small tufts may occur but are not required. The ears are slightly forward-oriented, giving an alert and attentive expression. Their shape and placement complement the round head without disturbing harmony.
Neck
The neck is of medium length, strong, and muscular, smoothly connecting the head and body. In males it may appear thicker and more powerful, while in females it is more refined but still well muscled. The lines are soft and natural, emphasizing overall balance and stability. The transition from neck to shoulders should be smooth, reflecting the breed’s physical strength and natural endurance.
Body
The body is strong and slightly elongated, with well-developed muscles and balanced proportions. The back is straight, the chest broad and deep, emphasizing stamina. The abdomen is firm but not overly lean, showing the cat’s functional build. Shoulders and hips are equally strong, blending smoothly into the torso. The silhouette is athletic yet not coarse, reflecting natural harmony and resilience.
Tail
The tail is of medium length, about two-thirds the body, proportionate to the frame. It is fairly broad at the base, tapering gradually to a rounded tip. The tail is flexible and mobile but should not appear too long or too thin. The coat is dense and even, matching body texture. At rest, the tail hangs straight; in motion, it curves slightly. Proper tail form completes the cat’s balanced silhouette.
Forelimbs
The forelegs are straight, medium in length, with strong musculature and solid bones. Shoulders are firm but not bulky; elbows point directly backward without deviation. Paws are round and compact with firm pads. The legs should convey strength and functionality while maintaining harmony with the body, ensuring agility and balance.
Hind Limbs
The hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs, creating a gentle rise from shoulders to croup. Thighs are muscular, hocks strong and stable. Paws are round and compact, matching the front ones. The proportions of the hind legs balance the body and highlight natural power and mobility while preserving elegance.
Gait and Movement
The gait of the European Shorthair is confident, smooth, and flexible. Movements are free and well coordinated, with good stride and balance. The impression is one of effortless strength and agility. The back remains level, the tail aids equilibrium. The movement reflects balance, endurance, and natural grace, typical of a skilled hunter.
Coat
The coat is short, dense, and close-lying, with a healthy sheen. The undercoat is evenly developed, giving firmness and volume. Texture is smooth, soft to the touch but not silky. The coat should provide protection from cold and moisture, demonstrating the breed’s natural adaptation. Shedding is moderate, making grooming easy. Overall, the coat should appear thick, healthy, and naturally glossy.
Permitted Colors
All traditional colors are permitted: solid (black, white, blue, red, cream), tabby (mackerel, classic, spotted), bicolor, tricolor, tortoiseshell, smoke, and silver varieties. Colors must be clear and even, with distinct tabby patterns. Eye and nose color must harmonize with the coat. Hybrid-derived or non-typical colors are not allowed.
Size
The European Shorthair is a medium to large cat. Males are usually more massive, with stronger bones and broader chests, weighing 5–7 kg, occasionally up to 8 kg. Females are lighter and more elegant, weighing 3.5–5 kg. Height at the withers is proportionate to body length. The breed must remain balanced, avoiding extremes of size, to preserve agility and endurance.
Faults
Faults include any deviations that disturb harmony or functionality: disproportionate body or head, weak muscles, excessive thinness or heaviness, incorrect bite, underdeveloped chin, overly arched forehead, ears too large or too close together, small or dull eyes, short or thick tail, leg irregularities, or soft or semi-long coat. Color faults include blurred tabby markings or irregular bicolor patches. Behavioral faults include timidity or undue aggression.
Disqualification
Severe faults disqualify a cat from show or breeding: deformities of body or limbs, major bite faults, missing or shortened tail, kinks, full or partial heterochromia not related to coat color, absence of undercoat, excessively long coat, or hybrid coloration (chocolate, lilac, colorpoint, cinnamon, fawn). Disqualifying also are deafness, blindness, or severe behavioral disorders preventing normal show handling.
Important Notes
The European Shorthair is a natural breed whose uniqueness lies in the preservation of its original type and genetic stability. Breeders should avoid excessive artificial selection: its key traits have formed naturally over centuries. The focus must be on maintaining health, immunity, and a stable temperament. Minor variations are acceptable if harmony is preserved. ICCF judges should value the breed’s natural, functional beauty. Breeding aims to strengthen the natural type and exclude hybrid or defective traits.
Conclusion
The European Shorthair is a strong, balanced, and natural breed preserving authentic beauty and functionality. The ICCF standard emphasizes proportion, sound structure, stable temperament, and natural expressiveness. These cats embody health, endurance, and friendliness while maintaining their distinct identity. Only cats with official ICCF documents—registration card, pedigree, or breeding certificate—may participate in shows and breeding. Verified origin and conformity to standard ensure the right to breeding and exhibition. Thus, the European Shorthair holds an honorable place among ICCF-recognized breeds, representing the value of preserving natural feline lines.
