The coat of the British Shorthair is short but very dense. Its texture is not particularly soft, but is smooth and carpet-like. Originally, pedigreed British Shorthairs had blue coats - in fact, the breed was once called the British Blue. Today many colors and patterns are acceptable, but most associations still do not recognize the British Colorpoint Blue. The short coat needs only a brushing once or twice a week to remove dead hair.
Occasional bathing helps to remove excess oil from the coat.