Which health problems are common in the British Shorthair?
Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart disease with no DNA test in this breed, so heart ultrasounds are how it is found. Some lines also carry the PKD kidney gene, which a one-time DNA test can show.
Updated November 9, 2026
What should British Shorthair owners watch for?
Common for the breed doesn't mean your cat will have it.
- Heart disease (HCM). The heart wall thickens, often with no signs. Fast breathing at rest, breathing with the mouth open or sudden weak back legs need a vet now.
- Kidney cysts (PKD). Inherited cysts that grow in the kidneys over the years. Early signs are vague: eating less and losing weight, later drinking and peeing more.
- Hemophilia B. A rare inherited bleeding disorder, mostly in males. Big bruises after injections or bleeding that won't stop are signs. Tell your vet before surgery.
Which checkups do vets often suggest?
| Checkup | What it is | When |
|---|---|---|
| Heart exam by a cardiologist | An ultrasound of the heart, the test that finds HCM. Ask your vet from what age and how often it makes sense. | From 2 years · Every year |
| DNA test for PKD | A cheek swab or blood sample, done once, that shows whether the cat carries the gene for polycystic kidney disease. | Once |
Your vet decides which checkups fit your pet, and when.
How do I keep a British Shorthair health record?
VetVitae, a free pet health record app for iPhone, Android and the web, shows these notes on your cat’s profile under Health, and Plan it opens the exam or test with its name filled.
For vaccines, parasites and the signs that can’t wait, see the cat care guide.
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Your vet knows your pet.
Sources
Start a record for your pet.
Add your pet, log the last vaccine, and you're set up. Use it in your browser, on iPhone or on Android.