If you've spent any time watching the hit sitcom New Girl, you've undoubtedly encountered Ferguson, Winston Bishop's beloved, flat-faced feline companion. Formally known as Ferguson Michael Jordan Bishop, this character steals scenes with his stoic expressions and central role in Winston's eccentric cop storylines. Viewers often wonder about Ferguson's breed in New Girl, given his distinctive squished face, stocky frame, and signature tabby coat pattern.
Ferguson is an Exotic Shorthair. Often described as the "lazy man's Persian," this breed shares the iconic facial structure and sweet disposition of the Persian cat but features a dense, short coat that requires significantly less maintenance. Understanding the background of this specific breed helps explain why Winston's fictional pet looks and acts the way he does on screen.
Origins and Traits of the Exotic Shorthair
The Exotic Shorthair didn't happen by accident of ancient history, but rather through deliberate breeding programs initiated in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Breeders crossed American Shorthairs with Persians to introduce silver coats and green eyes into the American Shorthair pool. The resulting kittens possessed the adorable, cobweb-soft teddy bear look of the Persian combined with a short, plush coat.
Physically, these cats feature broad skulls, round eyes, and short noses. They have heavy, solid bones wrapped in muscular bodies that feel surprisingly substantial when you pick them up. Unlike longhaired Persian cats that demand daily grooming to prevent painful mats, Exotic Shorthairs need only a weekly brush to remove loose hairs. More insights into this topic are detailed by The Hollywood Reporter.
Personality vs. Reality: How Ferguson Compares
On New Girl, Ferguson is portrayed as a calm, remarkably patient indoor cat who tolerates Winston's elaborate schemes, tiny suits, and funeral arrangements. In reality, the temperament of an Exotic Shorthair matches this laid-back energy quite closely.
- Affectionate nature: These cats crave human closeness. They prefer sitting on laps, sleeping in bed next to their owners, and following humans from room to room.
- Playful streak: While Persians tend to lounge all day, Exotic Shorthairs retain a kitten-like playfulness well into their adult years. They enjoy chasing catnip mice and batting at teaser toys.
- Quiet disposition: They rarely vocalize loudly. When they want attention, they use soft trills or gentle headbutts rather than demanding yowls.
For viewers looking to bring home an apartment companion similar to Winston's pet, the Cat Fanciers' Association provides official breed standards and health profiles for prospective owners.
Caring for a Flat-Faced Cat Breed
Owning a cat with flat facial features—often referred to medically as brachycephalic—requires specific care routines. While Ferguson made it look easy on television, real-life owners must manage a few health and hygiene considerations unique to the breed.
- Eye maintenance: Because their tear ducts often drain differently due to facial structure, crusting around the eyes happens frequently. Wipe their eyes daily with a damp, soft cloth.
- Skin fold hygiene: The wrinkles around the nose require occasional cleaning to prevent moisture buildup and minor skin irritations.
- Weight management: These stocky cats love to lounge. Portion-controlled feeding helps prevent obesity, which stresses their joints and respiratory systems.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, indoor cats thrive best when provided with vertical territory, puzzle feeders, and routine veterinary checkups to monitor breathing and dental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Ferguson's real name on set?
While the character was named Ferguson, television production animals often use multiple trained cats for safety and scene variety. The primary cat actor was handled by professional animal trainers from Hollywood studio agencies.
Are Exotic Shorthairs good for people with allergies?
No. Despite having short coats, they still produce dander and shed proteins that trigger common cat allergies. No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic.
Do Exotic Shorthairs suffer from health issues?
Like other flat-faced breeds, they can experience breathing difficulties during hot weather and dental crowding because of their compact jaw structures. Regular veterinary care mitigates these risks.
How long do Exotic Shorthairs live?
With proper indoor care, a healthy Exotic Shorthair typically lives between 12 and 15 years, matching the average lifespan of most domestic house cats.
