British Longhair
Medium cat (10–25 kg), typically living 12–17 years.
Typical adult weight
Males: 5–8 kg
Females: 4–6 kg
Individual pets vary. Body condition matters more than the number on the scales.
At a glance
Typical lifespan
Median lifespan for a British Longhair is around 12.7 years, based on an estimate built from this breed's size, type and published lifespan range. Try our cat age calculator to convert your cat's age into human years.
Life with a British Longhair
The British Longhair has fairly modest energy and enjoys short bursts of play. As a medium cat, its adult weight typically settles at 10–25 kg, and its coat needs frequent brushing to prevent matting.
In terms of coat care day to day, this breed sheds quite heavily, so expect hair on furniture. Around the home, the British Longhair has a reputation as an excellent family cat and tends to get along well with other cats and pets, though every individual cat has its own personality shaped by early handling and socialisation.
This breed generally prefers cooler conditions and may need extra water and shade in summer. The tools below are pre-loaded with typical figures for the British Longhair so you can get a quick, personalised estimate for feeding, age and cost.
Kitten growth guide
Estimated weight by age, based on an adult weight of around 5.8 kg (the midpoint of typical males and females). Real kittens vary by ±15% or more.
| Age | % of adult weight | Expected weight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 month | 10% | 0.6 kg |
| 2 months | 20% | 1.2 kg |
| 3 months | 35% | 2 kg |
| 4 months | 50% | 2.9 kg |
| 6 months | 70% | 4 kg |
| 9 months | 90% | 5.2 kg |
| 12 months | 100% | 5.8 kg |
Feeding guide by weight
Rough daily amounts for a neutered adult British Longhair, using the standard 70 × weight0.75 formula and a typical dry food energy density of 3800 kcal/kg. Always check the exact figure on your own food's packaging.
| Body weight | Daily calories | Roughly dry food |
|---|---|---|
| 4 kg | 238 kcal | 63 g |
| 5.8 kg | 314 kcal | 83 g |
| 8 kg | 400 kcal | 105 g |
For a figure tailored to your cat's age, activity and neuter status, use the cat food calculator.
Estimated UK costs
Ongoing costs (food, insurance, routine vet care, flea/worm treatment and extras) for a British Longhair typically run to around £73–£99 a month, or roughly £12,264–£16,632 over an average 14-year lifetime, not including one-off costs like purchase price, neutering or equipment.
These figures are UK averages and will vary by region and lifestyle.
Health conditions to be aware of
Like all breeds, the British Longhair has its own set of conditions vets keep an eye out for. Knowing about them ahead of time means you can ask the right questions, consider health screening, and choose insurance cover that suits.
- HCM
- PKD
A breed being prone to a condition does not mean your pet will get it. Ask your vet about screening and insurance.
Calculators for your British Longhair
Estimates only – not a substitute for advice from your vet.
Last reviewed: 22 September 2026