Exotic Shorthair Cat Insurance with Flexible Cover

  • Award-winning+ Cat and Kitten Insurance with Optional Benefits
  • Pet care resources customised for vets and pet owners
  • Partnered with the biggest breeder associations in Australia

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First 2 Months Free

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First 2 Months Free

Rated 4.7 on ProductReview and
4.6 on Google Reviews as of July 2025

  • Very simple with super fast claim reimbursements which is what we love.

    Lisa C. – South East Queensland, QLD.
grey exotic shorthair sitting on the kitchen counter

Outstanding Value

Winner 5 Years Straight!

About Exotic Shorthair cats

The Exotic Shorthair is a short-haired Persian with the same round face and big eyes, created in the mid-20th century by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs.

The goal was to capture the Persian’s charming looks in a low-maintenance, short-haired cat.

Exotics are affectionate and calm, perfect for Aussie families, singles, or seniors looking for a quiet companion. They usually get along well with children and other pets, and their gentle temperament also makes them suitable as therapy cats.

This breed has been beloved for many years, even making its way into pop culture. Garfield’s exact breed isn’t known, but the cartoon cat shares many of the Exotic Shorthair’s signature features.

💡FUN FACT!  Exotic Shorthairs are sometimes called “Persians in pajamas” because of their calm, cuddly nature.

We partnered with some of the biggest breeder associations in Australia

Our breeder partners help us educate pet owners with expert tips and insights about dogs and cats.

Exotic Shorthair Quick Facts

A quick glance at the essential facts for the Exotic Shorthair cat, one of Australia’s most loved companions.

  • Weight: 3.5 – 6 kilograms
  • Height: 25 – 30 centimetres
  • Coat Type: Short, dense, and plush with a thick undercoat
  • Colour: Black, white, golden, silver, smoke, bicolor, and Himalayan
  • Temperature: Affectionate, loyal, easygoing, low-energy
  • Size: Medium to large
  • Price Range: ≈ $2,000 – $3,000 ⓘ
  • Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years

Living with Exotic Shorthair cats

Being a Exotic Shorthair cat owner can be very rewarding. Here’s a quick look at their needs.

Temperament & Social Needs

  • These sweet cats are called “Persians in pajamas” for their calm nature, but with extra curiosity and playfulness.
  • They prefer a calm household where they can settle in for a long snooze nearby while you work or relax.

Exercise & Grooming

  • They’re low-energy cats who enjoy short play sessions and gentle games to stay mentally stimulated.
  • Their short, dense coat needs just a weekly brush to stay soft and reduce shedding, and regular cleaning of their face folds helps prevent irritation.

Health Insights

  • They can be prone to respiratory issues and tear-staining due to their flat faces.
  • Regular vet check-ups help monitor for heart and kidney conditions common in Exotic Shorthairs.

Essential preventative measures to keep
your Exotic Shorthair cat happy

As responsible pet owners, always ensure to give your pets the best care possible.

Regular veterinary
check-ups

Diet and weight
management

Regular
grooming

Ear care

Dental
care

Take the next step in pet care

Get preventative routine care with parasite protection today.

Common health problems in cats

Knose covers the following potential health problems in cats:

Vet consultations are essential appointments where a veterinarian examines your cat, addresses any symptoms or concerns, and may recommend further diagnostics or treatment. These visits are vital for maintaining your cat’s overall health, catching issues early, and ensuring they receive timely care for illnesses or injuries.

  • Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers$500 Sub-limit

Hip joint surgery in cats is performed to treat conditions such as hip dysplasia, dislocation, or fractures—most commonly after trauma. Procedures like femoral head ostectomy (FHO) or, more rarely, total hip replacement can relieve pain and restore function. Recovery often involves rest, physiotherapy, and careful monitoring.

  • Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers$2,000 Sub-limit

Cruciate ligament injuries, while rare in cats, can result from trauma or awkward landings. When this ligament in the knee is torn or ruptured, it leads to pain, limping, and reduced mobility. Treatment may involve strict rest, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery if the injury is severe or does not heal with conservative care.

  • Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers$2,000 Sub-limit

Tick paralysis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in cats caused by the toxin from paralysis ticks. Symptoms include sudden weakness, wobbliness, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. Prompt veterinary intervention—including tick removal and supportive hospital care—is essential to recovery.

  • Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers$2,000 Sub-limit

Orthopaedic conditions in cats relate to the bones, joints, and musculoskeletal system, often involving issues like fractures, arthritis, and joint dislocations. Diagnosis may include physical exams and imaging such as X-rays. Treatment can range from conservative management to complex surgical procedures, depending on the severity and cause.

  • Knose: No sub-limit

Other providers$2,000 Sub-limit

Frequently Asked Questions

In general, cat insurance is worth it because of the financial and emotional benefits of ensured care for your furry friends. And it’s highly recommended for Exotic Shorthair cats, given the potential for kidney disease, obesity, and other illnesses. It can help offset veterinary expenses throughout their lives.

Routine veterinary visits are recommended at least once a year for preventive care. Older Exotic Shorthair cats or those with health concerns may need more frequent check-ups.

Standard vaccinations include feline herpesvirus, calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies. Your vet can create a tailored vaccination schedule based on your cat’s lifestyle and risk factors.

Exotic Shorthair cats need a high-protein, low-carb nutrition with wet, meat-based food to support their muscles and hydration. Avoid dry food, as its high carbs and low moisture can cause weight gain and urinary issues. Steer clear of grains like wheat and rice, and starchy vegetables such as potatoes and peas, to prevent obesity and digestive problems.

Choose a policy that covers injuries, illnesses, routine care, and hereditary conditions like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) or kidney disease. At Knose, we offer extensive coverage to protect your cat’s health at an affordable cost!

With our Cat Insurance, you get the advantage of Lifetime Cover, which means there are no age limits once you have insurance.

  • The minimum age for entry for a pet is 6 weeks old.
  • The maximum age for entry for a pet is 8 years and 364 days old.
  • The maximum age for including or adding optional benefits is 2 years and 364 days.

There are no age limits when renewing policies.

More about Australia’s favourite cat breeds

Discover why so many pet parents insure these cat breeds with Knose.

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First 2 Months Free

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First 2 Months Free

Cat insurance claims made easy

With over 98,000 claims processed and $32 million paid since 2019, we’re proud to back Aussie pets when it matters most.

Domestic shorthair cat - Knose cat insurance claims

8 year-old Domestic Shorthair

Chronic Kidney disease diagnosis and treatment

Vet bill

$2,508

Claimed with Knose

$2,257

6 month-old Birman cat - knose cat insurance claims

6 month-old Birman

Vet consultation and medication for Gastroenteritis

Vet bill

$142

Claimed with Knose

$114

5 year-old Ragdoll cat - knose cat insurance claims

5 year-old Ragdoll

Hospital with fluids and specialist treatment for vomiting

Vet bill

$4,472

Claimed with Knose

$3,733

10-year old Russian Blue cat - knose cat insurance claims

10-year old Russian Blue

Ultrasound and specialist costs for enlarged spleen diagnosis

Vet bill

$1,559.55

Claimed with Knose

$1,061 *

3 month-old Domestic Longhair Cat - knose cat insurance claims

3 month-old Domestic Longhair Cat

Consultation and treatment for insect sting

Vet bill

$179.22

Claimed with Knose

$161

See our easy claims process
Knose Pet Insurance Awards 2025

One of the most awarded pet insurance in Australia

Guarding your pet’s well-being with proven excellence with 20+ Excellence Awards† and counting.

No hidden surprises — just straightforward protection for your cat’s well-being

Claim up to 90% of approved costs for care provided by a licensed veterinary professional.

Include Optional Benefits (for eligible policies) – Dental Illnesses, Behavioural Conditions, and Specialised Therapies.

Get rates for your Exotic Shorthair cat

Enjoy 2 months FREE when you sign-up today!

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