Exotic Shorthair question

[Acidburn]

Hello everyone.
I have an exotic shorthair cat, he is 7 months old. At the moment I am home all the time due to the current situation, but at some point I will be going back to work, which is 9 to 6. All the websites say that this breed should not be left alone for long time, but what is a long time exactly? I just feel so guilty leaving him to go to work :( Of course he's got toys and food, and I spend every evening with him, and weekends too. Sometimes my DH comes home earlier than me, and plays with him as well, but generally speaking he is alone for 9/10 hours a day. Unfortunately I can't afford another cat, as it is double amount of food, litter, vet costs and insurance.
Does anyone have this breed and can advice whether I am being paranoid over nothing? Thanks in advance.

Err no advice without a picture!

I have an exotic called Cheddar, and a 'normal' Persian as well. They are the perfect breed for leaving all day as they just sleep. I work 12.5 hour shifts and they are absolutely fine. Cheddar loudly demands cuddles as soon as I get through the door though.

Is he your first Persian? They really aren't like normal cats. Much more docile and placid. Unlikely to cause havoc, mine don't climb. Also make sure you have very good insurance. My longhaired Persians ran up bills of 20k!

I have two exotics, both basically sleep all day long and demand attention in the evenings - perfectly fine for leaving at home all day!

@PinkSpring please can we see photos. Cheddar thinks she's the only exotic on the litter tray and she's lonely!

@Toddlerteaplease omg Cheddar is so cute! I just love their tiny grumpy faces! Here is my Archibald :)

They sleep a lot, you’ll be fine to leave your kitty. Maybe with your husband you can stagger schedules a little bit to make the day less long? You can also leave out some nice toys for him, set your TV or radio to play for a few hours. Have you looked at puzzle feeders? They are also a good enrichment to keep them busy and entertained.

Aww he is so cute. Cheddar gets very offended at being told she's grump. She's the least grumpy cat you could ever meet. She's bonkers! Is Archibald very vocal? Cheddar has a lot to say for herself!

I'm not sure Persians are intelligent enough for puzzle feeders. Mine aren't!

@Toddlerteaplease Archibald is a singer!!! Whoever said that exotics are not vocal has obviously not met my cat :)))
Honestly I just love him so much. He is my first pet, and I always thought of myself as a dog person. But he completely changed my perception.

The lady who runs the rescue I got mine from, said I'd never have another breed of cat again. I didn't never. But she was right. Cheddar is so cuddly and affectionate. And we have proper conversations. She's also teaching her adoptive sister how to 'cat'.

*didn't believe her!

Most cats of most breeds are pretty philosophical and although they love company will just sleep and make the best of it when you’re not there. Just don’t ignore him when you’re home — they he’d feel aggrieved.
I love it when I hear of new cat owners who become confirmed cat lovers once they’ve experienced that special relationship!