Origin
United States
Lifespan
15–20 years
Weight
4–7 kg
Group
Shorthair
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Silver Tabby · Brown Tabby · Blue · Black · White · Red · Cream
American Shorthair
About This Breed
The American Shorthair is a breed of domestic cat believed to be descended from European cats brought to North America by early settlers to protect valuable cargo from mice and rats. They are a working cat breed with a natural athletic build. American Shorthairs are known for their calm, easygoing personality, adaptability, and low maintenance. The silver tabby is the most recognised colour pattern in this breed.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a American Shorthair
Origin
| Origin | United States |
| Group | Shorthair |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 4–7 kg |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years |
| Colors & Patterns | Silver Tabby · Brown Tabby · Blue · Black · White · Red · Cream |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Easygoing · Playful · Independent · Gentle · Adaptable |
Often enjoys a mix of activity and rest.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Usually needs relatively little coat care. Brush as needed for its coat and shedding.
Some shedding is expected, and it may change with the season.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Often gets along with other pets. Introduce them gradually rather than assuming they will be friends.
Health and lifespan
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
Offer places to climb, hide, scratch, and rest. Try different toys to see what your cat enjoys.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
About the Breed
Seeking a rugged, self-sufficient cat that is also a loving and playful companion? Simply add an American Shorthair to your home. Frequently described as “a working cat,” these sturdy, independent felines generally prefer to leave the work of the household to you. . . but they will supervise your activities with great interest! A perfect family cat, the American Shorthair’s history of doing battle with rodents has provided it with patience, intelligence, and a strong hunting instinct that should be regularly indulged with interactive toys.
Breed History
Short-haired cats arrived in North America with the early settlers, on ships that typically kept cats aboard to control rodents. As pioneers moved westward, their cats went with them earning their keep by protecting farms and homes from vermin. And so, a breed was born! American Shorthairs were featured at the first cat show held in the United States, in 1895 and over 50 were present. They were also one of the first five breeds recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association at its founding in 1906. Originally shown as “Domestic Shorthairs,” American Shorthairs received their current name in 1965.
Character & Temperament
With its affectionate nature, the American Shorthair appreciates human company and particularly enjoys interactive play with its human family. However, it is independent enough to amuse itself while owners are away at work. Given their high level of intelligence, these cats are easily trainable and can be taught to stay off counters, use scratching posts, and even retrieve toys. But beware, they are also quite capable of figuring out how to open cupboard drawers and sometimes doors… especially if that is where you keep the treats or toys! Easygoing and relatively sedate, American Shorthairs love to play, especially hunting games chasing feather or toys on wands or strings with their owners. If you play with your cat about the same time each day, don’t be surprised to find it fairly dancing in anticipation as playtime approaches! They are very tolerant of other animals and small children, and skilled at communicating with their humans without the need for loud vocalizations. In fact, the breed is known for its “silent meow” of greeting, politely requesting attention with an open mouth, yet making no sound.
Physical Appearance
Structurally, the American Shorthair presents an impression of strength and power. The medium to large, muscular body is protected by a thick, hard-textured coat that can stand up to rough weather, bushes and brambles, and any sort of hostile outdoor environment. An oval-shaped head, slightly longer than it is wide, is marked by a powerful jaw and a striking eye shape that is unique to the breed; the eyes have a gentle oval curve above, while the lower curve is more rounded. While silver and brown classic tabbies are very popular, the breed is also found in over 100 different color combinations.
Grooming
This is not a breed that requires much grooming, but like all cats with hair, they shed their undercoat during the spring. A lighter fall shed, affecting the guard hairs, follows. Daily brushing is recommended; a wire toothed slicker brush or a grooming mitt is perfect for an American’s short coat and is generally all that is needed to keep shedding under control. Bathing helps remove excess oils and further reduces shedding, but is usually unnecessary unless the cat is being shown.
Life at home
Consistently ranked among the top 20 breeds registered by CFA, the American Shorthair is popular throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia. This hardy cat is not currently known for any breed-specific health problems. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was noted in some cats in the 1980s and 90s, but thanks to preventive testing and selective breeding, it has largely disappeared from the breed.
Breed Overview
American Shorthairs are generally easygoing in personality and get along well with children, dogs, and other pets. This makes them a popular choice for new and experienced pet parents alike. However, it’s their knack for hunting mice that earned them a spot on early ships to the Americas and eventually a place in our homes as beloved pets. American Shorthair cats are medium-sized, muscular cats with sweet expressions that suit their gentle temperament. They typically weigh 6–15 pounds, with males on the heavier end of the spectrum.
Care Guide
While American Shorthairs are an easygoing bunch, they still require daily play and exercise. They’re natural mousers and enjoy climbing cat trees or pouncing on their favorite toy. At the end of a busy day, it’s not unlike an American Shorthair to cuddle up with their humans for a nap. These cats are low-maintenance and friendly, making them suitable for both experienced and first-time pet parents.