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Domestic Longhair (moggy): temperament, health and care
Domestic Longhair (moggy): temperament, exercise and grooming needs, common health problems and who this cat suits.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Size | Medium, about 3.5–6 kg |
|---|---|
| Typical lifespan | 12–18 years |
| Exercise | Moderate |
| Grooming | Long coat: brush most days to prevent mats |
Temperament and who it suits
Varies from cat to cat; often gentle and adaptable.
Often suits: owners who can commit to regular grooming.
Matted fur can be painful and may need clipping at the vet.
Health problems to know about
- Matted coat and hairballs
- Dental disease
- Kidney disease in older cats
Individuals vary. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks, vaccination and weight control.
Before you get a Domestic Longhair (moggy)
- See the kitten with its mother, where it was born
- Ask about health tests on the parents for the conditions above
- Check it is microchipped by 20 weeks old in England
- Consider adopting: breed rescues and rehoming centres often have cats like this looking for homes
See buying a puppy or kitten: Lucy's Law and your rights.
Care, law and costs
See our general guide to cats for feeding, the law in the UK, what it costs and emergencies, and our guides to microchipping law and toxic foods and plants.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Domestic Longhair (moggy) live?
A Domestic Longhair (moggy) typically lives 12–18 years. Individual health, diet and weight all matter.
How much exercise does a Domestic Longhair (moggy) need?
Moderate.
What health problems are common in a Domestic Longhair (moggy)?
Common concerns include matted coat and hairballs, dental disease and kidney disease in older cats. Ask breeders about health testing, and keep up with vet checks.
How much grooming does a Domestic Longhair (moggy) need?
Long coat: brush most days to prevent mats.
Who does a Domestic Longhair (moggy) suit?
It often suits owners who can commit to regular grooming. Matted fur can be painful and may need clipping at the vet.
Similar cats
Sources
- International Cat Care: cat breeds and health
- BSAVA: Microchipping legislation in the UK
- Cats Protection: compulsory microchipping of cats in England
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-23. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See how we check.