American Shorthair Cats | Breed Information, Personality, and Care Guide

Buyers guaranteed a healthy breed that is adored and recognized in the United States as the American Shorthair cats. These animals are friendly, can easily adapt to different environments, and are naturally low stress animals making them ideal for any home, be it with children, seniors or singles. These include; Their short, dense coat and muscular body make them very attractive Their history and versatility make them one of the most popular cats in America. Here you will find general information about the breed, its history, classification and the main tips on how to properly care for an American Shorthair, interesting facts and where to buy one.

History of American Shorthair Cats

American Shorthair cat originated in Europe and arrived at North America with settlers in the 1600s. These cats were mainly utilized because of the rodent controlling abilities of such cats on riding ships. They gradually transformed into a breed that is capable of living in the U.S., and in a variety of conditions.

The breed was first categorically admitted into the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) as the American Shorthair in 1906 although the breed as we know it was probably developed over time through breeding. Overwhelmingly muscular and stocky in construction, and their beautifully contrasting skin fabrics have always made them an interesting favorite within the feline animal lovers.

Classification of American Shorthair Cats

Being one of the hardy breeds, American Shorthair cats are medium to large cats, with muscular and heavy bones. It has a round head, large round eyes, and short thick coat which hugs the body. The breed is very diverse in terms of coat color and markings and the most famous must be the tabby.

The coat of the American Shorthair is short or medium length and is exceptionally dense, giving the cat a splendid, plush sensation. Simplicity is another characteristic of this breed’s coat, compared to the longhaired one, it just needs a low level of grooming.

By Purpose

American Shorthair was developed for the hunting and guarding of food supplies against rodents in the early colonies in America. This has however changed over the years and the breed is now just a pet animal famous for its docile nature and ability to adapt to the new environment. Today, the American Shorthair is strictly a pet breed as the cats are bred mainly for their friendly nature.

Because of them being relaxed breeds, they are suitable for families with children, other pets, and the elderly. They are lively with lots of energy to boot though they prefer to fend for themselves or simply laze around their master’s vicinity.

By Size

Average size of American Shorthairs may be classified as medium to large cats. Adult males are about 11 to 15 pounds and females are slightly lighter, 8 to 12 pounds. They are muscular charged but have a graceful movements and body structure, with rounded features.

They are robust cats capable of playing actively and engaging in any physical exercise, but they are also home-buddies. Because of this, they can be taken as pets in any house whether you stay in an apartment or in a big house.

Most Popular American Shorthair Cats

The American Shorthair is available in all colors and most patterns, but the most famous one is the tabby pattern. The most famous type is the so called ‘shaded’ tabby, a silver tabby with black stripes on a silver base. Other preferred colours and fur patterns are plain, two-toned and mottled or blotchy colours like calico.

Some of the most sought-after variations of the American Shorthair include:

Classic Tabby: The tabby pattern of the cat with a combination of solid black stripes and black spots.

Solid Color: These cats are available in the solid colors of black, blue, red and cream.

Bicolor and Tricolor: American Shorthairs can also be bicolor or tricolor, which only enhances the breed’s look.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an American Shorthair

When adopting or purchasing an American Shorthair, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure you’re choosing the right cat for your lifestyle:

Energy Level: Despite this, the American Shorthair breed is commonly associated with calm and docile behavior, the breed is playful, and active as well. They need to play often so they can be healthy, so you should be ready to provide them with play.

Living Space: They are easy going and can be house cats or ones with some space to move around in. However, they do require space to romp around and run amok, much more if there are other pets in the house.

Health Considerations: As with all breeds, the American Shorthair is susceptible to some genetic diseases; among them, obesity and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is a heart disease. They should keep to a balanced diet and have their health checked often by a veterinarian.

Grooming: An advantage of American Shorthair is that do not require much grooming. They should be brushed daily to keep them looking shiny and smooth coated but they do not need pampering like long haired cats.

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For Sale

If you are in a position where you want to buy or adopt an American Shorthair, you will find a variety of American Shorthair cats for sale or to adopt from Petfinder.com. Moreover, most good breeders post their kittens on the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) website so you get a healthy and well-sociable kitten from a responsible breeder. It is always advisable to find out the breeder’s reputation and if possible adopt from an animal shelter or rescue center for a cat to have a home.

Tips for Responsible American Shorthair Ownership

Provide Daily Playtime: Despite all this, the American Shorthairs are not dull cats, they are playful and curious. This is similar to how young children like playing games with toys or even just playing with a post or some things that have textures that they like to scratch among others.

Balanced Diet: To avoid obesity, your American Shorthair needs to be fed with quality and balanced diet at all times. This is due to the fact that they are prone to obesity if their diet is not well regulated, so they should ensure they do not over feed.

Regular Veterinary Care: Check-ups for your American Shorthair should be done at least once a year with a vet. Other important aspects of your cat’s health care should also include vaccines, deworming, and dental check up.

Affection and Attention: American Shorthairs are somewhat aloof but they do seek their owner’s affection. If you will spend considerable time stroking and caring for them, then you will definitely have a good relationship with them.

Fun Facts About American Shorthair Cats

Excellent Hunters: Traditional uses of this breed include hunting mice and rats and as such were working cats in the American society. They still have a very predatory instinct today and will sometimes ‘hunt’ toys or other objects.

Low Maintenance: Husky dogs have a short coat that does not require frequent grooming and although they shed lightly they are great for people who are allergic or those who do not have time to spare for grooming.

Long Lifespan: American Shorthair cats are hypothesized to live for approximately 15-20 years and sometimes up to the age of 20.

FAQs About American Shorthair Cats

Conclusion

The American Shorthair is a great cat breed that is strong, smart and friendly, has a good temperament. They are friendly, tolerant, flexible, and require minimal grooming, so they can be great pets for families, singles or elderly people. Regardless of whether you choose to own a pet and bring one home or buy one, the American Shorthair is going to be the source of joy, love and entertainment.