American shorthairs originated as a breed in the United States, but their ancestral roots hail from Britain. The shorthaired house cats from Britain were appreciated for their hunting capabilities, and they were taken aboard transatlantic sailing vessels to keep cargo free from mice and rats. Some of these cats made their way to America with the pilgrims aboard the Mayflower. Once the cats arrived in the New World, their work duties continued as they controlled the vermin populations on farms and settlements. These were the original domestic shorthairs, and they were shown as such during the early 1900s. Breeders began selectively breeding them to create a new, pedigreed cat that would consistently exhibit specific traits. In 1965, this new breed was dubbed the American shorthair.
The American Shorthair is a breed that originated from the cats European settlers brought to America. The American Shorthair is different than the Domestic Shorthairs found on the street, the American Shorthair is a distinguished breed. This breed is low in maintenance. Many people confuse the domestic shorthair with the American shorthair. The domestic shorthair results from random mating, and the offspring can exhibit any size and look. The pedigreed American shorthair is purposely bred to produce cats with a specific appearance. American shorthairs have sturdy, muscular bodies that are somewhat rounded. The medium-sized cats weigh between 6 and 15 pounds. Their heads and eyes are also slightly rounded, and their coats are thick and short. There are upwards of 80 different coat colors and patterns, and the most sought-after American shorthair wears a sterling silver coat with black markings.
Personality
The American Shorthair is a very playful, sociable, and kid-friendly cat breed. It enjoys the company of both humans and other cats. They don't enjoy being left alone for too long. The American shorthair is one of the most adaptable and quietest of cat breeds. They have sweet and easy-going dispositions, and they get along well with children and other household pets. American shorthairs are intelligent and trainable. Their powerful bodies make them excellent hunters. American shorthairs enjoy playing, especially when the play session nurtures and hones their hunting skills. For a calm, patient, affectionate and easy-going cat, the American shorthair makes a perfect companion for any household. The robustness and longevity of the breed have also contributed to its popularity as a beloved family member.
Breed Characteristics
| Origin: | US, 1800 |
| Life Span: | 15-20 years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
American Shorthair Build Information
The American Shorthair is a breed that originated from the cats European settlers brought to America. The American Shorthair is different than the Domestic Shorthairs found on the street, the American Shorthair is a distinguished breed. This breed is low in maintenance. Many people confuse the domestic shorthair with the American shorthair. The domestic shorthair results from random mating, and the offspring can exhibit any size and look. The pedigreed American shorthair is purposely bred to produce cats with a specific appearance. American shorthairs have sturdy, muscular bodies that are somewhat rounded. The medium-sized cats weigh between 6 and 15 pounds. Their heads and eyes are also slightly rounded, and their coats are thick and short. There are upwards of 80 different coat colors and patterns, and the most sought-after American shorthair wears a sterling silver coat with black markings.
| Size: | Large |
Behaviour and Personality
The American Shorthair is a very playful, sociable, and kid-friendly cat breed. It enjoys the company of both humans and other cats. They don't enjoy being left alone for too long. The American shorthair is one of the most adaptable and quietest of cat breeds. They have sweet and easy-going dispositions, and they get along well with children and other household pets. American shorthairs are intelligent and trainable. Their powerful bodies make them excellent hunters. American shorthairs enjoy playing, especially when the play session nurtures and hones their hunting skills. For a calm, patient, affectionate and easy-going cat, the American shorthair makes a perfect companion for any household. The robustness and longevity of the breed have also contributed to its popularity as a beloved family member.
| Activity Level: | Moderate |
| Affection Level: | High |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
American shorthairs require little in the way of grooming. Petting the cat occasionally with a grooming mitt will remove dead hairs and maintain a healthy luster. It is more important to focus on brushing the cat's teeth at least three times a week to prevent periodontal disease and maintain good overall health.
| Grooming: | Minimal (Weekly brushing, nail trimming, ear and tooth cleaning) |
American Shorthair Common Health Conditions
The American shorthair is one of the healthiest cat breeds, living an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years. One genetic condition to be aware of is feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a serious heart condition that can result in heart failure. Otherwise, the American shorthair is an exceptionally hardy cat.
American Shorthair Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The American shorthair originated within the United States. American shorthairs are friendly, easy-going, calm and quiet cats. An American shorthair weighs between 6 to 15 pounds. American shorthairs require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for an American shorthair is 15 to 20 years.