Worldwide; not a breed but a description of mixed-ancestry cats with a medium-length coat, the result of natural mixing among cats carried to new places by travellers and settlers.12
Personality is as varied as the looks. Many are friendly, playful and affectionate lap cats, while others are more independent and reserved. Early socialisation and each cat's own background shape who it becomes.12
how to spot oneDomestic Mediumhair coat and colours
medium-length coat, often a soft double coat
There is no fixed body type: some are sleek and slender, others solid and muscular. What links them is a coat between short and long, usually soft and plush, often a little shorter along the back and fluffier around the face and tail. Density varies from cat to cat.12
Coloursany colour or patternblackwhitegreyorange/gingercreambluebrowntabbytortoiseshellcalicobicolourtuxedosmokecolourpoint12
a typical week and yearThe care rhythm
A typical home-care rhythm for a Domestic Mediumhair. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Brushingevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
how busy a day looksDomestic Mediumhair exercise needs
Varies by cat. Many enjoy climbing, exploring and interactive play, while some prefer lounging. Toys and climbing spots help keep them busy.12
the hands-on bitsDomestic Mediumhair grooming and care
Brush at least weekly, ideally twice a week, and more often in spring and autumn when shedding picks up, to keep the coat free of tangles.12
where they are happiestDomestic Mediumhair at home
Does well as an indoor cat when given enrichment such as toys, scratching posts and climbing spaces.1
what goes in the bowlDomestic Mediumhair food and feeding
A balanced, complete cat food rich in protein, with the vitamins, minerals and amino acids a cat needs, portioned for age and activity.2
who they like aroundDomestic Mediumhair with people and other pets
Usually fits well into family life, and many get along with children, dogs and other cats when introduced and socialised well. Some chat more than others.12
where it all beganDomestic Mediumhair history
Medium-haired house cats have no single birthplace. They grew out of generations of free mixing among cats that spread with people around the world, prized for keeping rodents away. Catster notes their ancestors are said to have reached America on the Mayflower.12
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
Since 2009 the GCCF has run a Household Pet section where non-pedigree cats can win titles judged on condition and personality rather than a breed standard.3
2
A Domestic Mediumhair can have eyes of green, gold, yellow, blue or copper, and some have two different coloured eyes.1
3
According to Catster, the ancestors of American medium-haired house cats are said to have arrived with the Pilgrims on the Mayflower as mousers.2
4
The coat is often shorter on the back and fluffier around the face and tail.2
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The Domestic Medium Hair, also known as the 'DMH' or 'Semi-Longhair', is a type of cat with, as its name suggests, a medium-length coat and mixed breed ancestry. They are not a specific cat breed of their own, but a category of domestic cat defined by their fur length, which is longer than short-haired cats but shorter than long-haired breeds.4
I start my day by stretching in a sunbeam on the rug. My human gives me a scratch behind the ears, and I purr loudly. After a quick breakfast, I patrol the house, checking each room. The window ledge is my favorite spot; I watch birds flit past. Later, I find a crinkly toy and bat it around, pouncing and rolling. My human laughs. I take a nap in a cardboard box, then wake for a game of chase with a dangling string. I leap and twist. In the evening, I curl up on their lap, warm and sleepy.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
GCCF
Not a breed; non-pedigree cats can be shown in the Household Pet section (set up in 2009), split into long/semi-longhaired and shorthaired classes and judged on presentation, condition, temperament and personality.3
Cat fancy (general)
Described as a mixed-breed category rather than a purebred breed.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Domestic Mediumhair, and at what times?
Most adult cats do well on two meals a day, morning and evening, but your cat's age, activity and health matter. Check the food label for portion guidance and ask your vet for a schedule that suits your cat.2Pet Wiki plan
What should a Domestic Mediumhair eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a balanced, complete cat food rich in protein with the right vitamins and minerals. Dangerous foods include chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, xylitol, raw meat and eggs; always avoid these.25
Does a Domestic Mediumhair need baths?
Cats are self‑groomers and rarely need baths unless they get very dirty or sticky. If a bath is needed, use a cat‑safe shampoo and ask your vet for advice.6
How often does a Domestic Mediumhair need brushing?
Brush at least once a week, ideally twice, and more often in spring and autumn when shedding increases. This keeps the medium‑length coat free of tangles and reduces hairballs.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Domestic Mediumhair's claws, and how often?
Trim claws every three weeks or so, using proper cat nail clippers and only the clear tip. If your cat is nervous, do just one or two claws per session. Ask your vet or a groomer to show you the safe technique.6Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Domestic Mediumhair need?
Most enjoy daily interactive play with toys like wands or balls to satisfy their hunting instincts. Play sessions of 10, 15 minutes a few times a day work well, but adjust to your cat's energy level.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Domestic Mediumhair's teeth and ears?
Brush teeth daily if possible, using a cat‑safe toothpaste, to prevent dental problems. Check ears weekly for dirt or redness and gently clean with a vet‑recommended solution. Your vet can show you how. Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Domestic Mediumhair live?
Domestic Mediumhairs typically live 12 to 20 years with good care. Regular vet check‑ups and a healthy lifestyle help them enjoy a long, happy life.12
Is a Domestic Mediumhair good with children and other pets?
Many are friendly and get along well with children, dogs and other cats when introduced gently and socialised early. Each cat has its own personality, so take introductions slowly.12
Can a Domestic Mediumhair be left alone?
They can be left alone for a typical workday, especially if they have toys, scratching posts and climbing spots to keep them busy. For longer absences, arrange for someone to check in and play.12
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Domestic Longhair
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