Best Dry Food for Exotic Shorthairs

We independently research and pick every product. When you buy through our links we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you. How this works.

Exotic Shorthairs, with their compact, plush bodies, require a diet that meets their obligate-carnivore protein needs while catering to their specific health concerns. Their brachycephalic airway and potential for urinary tract issues, such as PKD, necessitate a carefully chosen dry food. Moreover, their moderate shedding and tendency towards weight gain due to low energy levels mean that their diet must balance calorie density with nutrient richness. The breed's tendency to develop dental disease and tear staining also points to the importance of a dry food that supports oral health and does not exacerbate these conditions. Given these considerations, selecting the right dry food is crucial for maintaining the overall health and well-being of an Exotic Shorthair. A high-protein, taurine-rich formula with controlled calories and specific support for urinary health and hairball control would be ideal, considering the breed's characteristics and common health issues.

What to look for

Protein Content

Exotic Shorthairs require a high-protein diet to meet their obligate-carnivore needs. Look for formulas with real chicken or salmon as the first ingredient to ensure they receive the necessary amino acids for muscle maintenance and overall health.

Calorie Density

Given their low energy levels, Exotic Shorthairs need a diet that balances calorie density to prevent obesity. Foods with controlled calories for indoor cats are particularly suitable, as they cater to the breed's sedentary lifestyle.

Urinary Tract Health

The breed's predisposition to urinary tract issues, such as PKD, means that a dry food supporting urinary health is essential. Formulas with specific urinary tract health support can help mitigate these risks.

Hairball Control

Although Exotic Shorthairs have a short coat, they still shed moderately and can benefit from a dry food that includes natural fiber for hairball control, reducing the likelihood of digestive issues.

Dental Health

Supporting dental health is crucial for preventing dental disease. Dry foods that help reduce tartar and support oral health can contribute to the overall well-being of an Exotic Shorthair.

Our top picks

Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Dry Cat Food

Best for Indoor Exotic Shorthairs with urinary health concerns

This dry food is tailored for indoor cats, addressing the Exotic Shorthair's need for controlled calories and urinary health support. The natural fiber also helps with hairball control, making it a well-rounded choice for this breed.

✓ Supports urinary health
✓ Controls calories for indoor lifestyle
✓ Includes natural fiber for hairball control

✕ May not be suitable for highly active Exotic Shorthairs

Check price →

Purina Pro Plan Complete Essentials Adult Dry Cat Food

Best for Exotic Shorthairs needing high-protein for muscle maintenance

With real chicken or salmon as the first ingredient, this dry food provides the high-protein diet Exotic Shorthairs require. It also supports skin and coat health, which is beneficial for this breed.

✓ High-protein for muscle maintenance
✓ Supports skin and coat health
✓ Real chicken or salmon first ingredient

✕ Does not specifically address urinary health concerns

Check price →

Royal Canin Breed-Specific Dry Cat Food

Best for Exotic Shorthairs benefiting from breed-specific nutrition

Although not specifically formulated for Exotic Shorthairs, the Persian formula can be beneficial due to similarities in breed characteristics. It offers tailored nutrient profiles and targeted coat, heart, and digestive support.

✓ Breed-specific nutrition
✓ Tailored nutrient profiles
✓ Supports digestive health

✕ Not directly formulated for Exotic Shorthairs

Check price →

Blue Buffalo Indoor Health Adult Dry Cat Food

Best for Exotic Shorthairs needing antioxidant support and hairball control

This dry food includes LifeSource Bits with antioxidants and a fiber blend for hairball control, making it suitable for Exotic Shorthairs. The real chicken first ingredient also supports their high-protein needs.

✓ Includes antioxidants
✓ Fiber blend for hairball control
✓ Real chicken first ingredient

✕ May not be the best choice for Exotic Shorthairs with severe urinary issues

Check price →

IAMS ProActive Health Adult Indoor Weight & Hairball Care

Best for Exotic Shorthairs needing weight management and hairball control

This dry food is designed for indoor cats, focusing on weight management and hairball control, which are relevant concerns for Exotic Shorthairs. The L-carnitine for healthy metabolism is an added benefit.

✓ Weight management
✓ Hairball control
✓ L-carnitine for metabolism

✕ Does not specifically address urinary health or high-protein needs

Check price →

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to transition my Exotic Shorthair to a new dry food?

Transition your Exotic Shorthair to a new dry food gradually over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with their current food and gradually increase the proportion of new food.

How often should I feed my Exotic Shorthair?

Feed your Exotic Shorthair according to the manufacturer's guidelines for their age, weight, and activity level. Generally, adult Exotic Shorthairs require 2-3% of their body weight in food per day, divided into 2-3 meals.

Can I mix dry food with wet food for my Exotic Shorthair?

Yes, you can mix dry food with wet food for your Exotic Shorthair. This can provide variety in their diet and help with hydration. However, ensure the combined calorie intake does not lead to weight gain.

What are the signs of urinary tract issues in Exotic Shorthairs, and how can diet help?

Signs of urinary tract issues include increased urination, accidents outside the litter box, and straining during urination. A diet that supports urinary health, such as those with specific urinary tract health support, can help mitigate these risks.

How does the Exotic Shorthair's flat face affect their eating and food choice?

The Exotic Shorthair's flat face can make eating certain types of food challenging. Look for kibble sizes and shapes that are easy for them to pick up and chew, and consider a dry food that minimizes the risk of respiratory issues during eating.

For Exotic Shorthair owners, prioritizing a dry food that addresses the breed's specific health concerns, such as urinary tract health and obesity, is crucial. Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Dry Cat Food stands out for its comprehensive approach to these issues, making it a top choice for many Exotic Shorthair owners. Ultimately, consulting with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your individual cat, based on their health status and lifestyle, is the most effective way to ensure their optimal health and well-being.

More for your Exotic Shorthair

Other breed-matched picks worth a look.

Best Dry Food for other breeds

The same category, matched to a different breed.