British Shorthairs are a large and muscular cat breed, and are described as having a "cobby" build. The breed has a broad chest, shoulders, and hips, with short legs, round paws, and a plush but not fluffy tail. Males British Shorthair cats are larger than the females, and the size difference between them is more easily noticed compared to other cat breeds. As with many cat breeds the adult males may also develop prominent cheek jowls that distinguish them from their female counterparts.