The Exotic Longhair and the Exotic Shorthair were first created by breeding Persians and domestic shorthaired cats.

The Exotic Longhair Cat is a very sweet, friendly cat. Known to be a "troublemaker" and rather childlike, the Exotic Longhair Cat has been known to "hide" things (cigarette lighters, jewelry, makeup). It has been known to chew on things as well, such as electric cords, plants, or just about anything, that has aroused the cat's curiosity. However, in spite of all this, the Exotic Longhair is very loving, affectionate and makes a wonderful pet so long as the owner takes precautions and "cat-proofs" the home. It would be done much as one would "baby-proof" their home. The Exotic Longhair is known to get along well with children as well as other animals.

The Exotic Longhair looks almost identical to the Persian. The main difference is genetic. The Exotic Longhair is a cross between a Persian and a domestic shorthair cat. Like the Persian, the Exotic Longhair has a thick coat that requires frequent grooming. The Exotic Longhair has the same basic body type as the Persian. Perhaps the most notable difference between the Exotic Longhair and the Persian lies in the personality of the cat. It is said that the Exotic Longhair is slightly more active than the Persian is. The body of the Exotic Longhair is large. The Exotic Longhair can be seen in any color and has a very large, solid looking head and skull with a thick neck that is rather short. The Exotic Longhair has large eyes and a broad nose.

The Exotic Longhair (along with the Exotic Shorthair) was first bred in 1967 on the suggestion of Jane Martinike who was a CFA judge. This was met with great argument from Persian breeders. One "problem" that could arise is that a cat that "looks" like a Persian could have shorthaired kittens, which is obviously not allowed. It should be noted that the "longhair" gene is recessive, meaning that there can be an Exotic Longhair cat that has two Exotic Shorthair parents. In spite of all the controversy surrounding the Exotic Longhair and Shorthair, this cat is slowly gaining acceptance and popularity.

While the Exotic Longhair does not suffer from many health problems as a breed, this cat does require a great deal of grooming. The Exotic Longhair should be groomed everyday for about five minutes or so. Additionally, the Exotic Longhair needs to be bathed occasionally, and the kittens will get "used" to it if started from a young age. If the Exotic Longhair is bathed, the cat MUST be blow-dried in order to prevent the cat from becoming sick and in order to prevent tangles in the fur.

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