American Shorthair

The roots of the American Shorthair trace back to the early days of European settlers in North America. While the breed is considered native to the United States, its ancestry can be linked to cats that likely originated in Europe. 

It's believed that cats fitting the description of the American Shorthair were not present in the United States until the time of Columbus.

• History of the American Shorthair

The recorded breeding of the American Shorthair began around 1904, marking the official recognition of this unique feline. The breed's ancestry includes the British Shorthair, one of its parent breeds. Initially known as the Domestic Shorthair, the American Shorthair gradually gained recognition for its distinctive characteristics.

In its early years, the American Shorthair played the role as a working cat. Revered for its exceptional ability to control the rodent population, these cats were valued members of households and businesses alike. As working cats, they were selectively bred to be hardy, healthy, and strong, ensuring their effectiveness in their role.

The American Shorthair is a cool, calm, and collected feline friend you've been dreaming of. Known for its easygoing and docile personality, this cat makes a wonderful friend. 

• Temperament

American Shorthair cats are like the zen masters of the cat world. They handle change like pros and, with their easygoing temperament, get along swimmingly with everyone, from little tykes to furry pals.

But here's the kicker – they're not clingy. These kitties appreciate their alone time as much as they enjoy a good cuddle session. So, whether you're in the mood for a Netflix binge or an impromptu playdate, your American Shorthair is up for it.

Talking about their playfulness, these cats are perpetual kittens at heart. Even as they grow older, they maintain that youthful energy that keeps them chasing after toys and pouncing on imaginary prey. They love playing with interactive toys, so keep the toy box stocked for endless entertainment.

• Intelligence

American Shorthairs are no slouches in the intelligence department. They're quick learners, making training sessions a breeze. Teach them a trick or two, introduce some mind-bending puzzle toys – they'll lap it up with enthusiasm.

But it's not just about tricks. These cats are emotionally intelligent too. They seem to have a sixth sense of your mood, offering comfort when you need it or being the life of the party when you're up for some fun. That emotional intelligence strengthens the bond between you and your cat.

Sure, they might not demand constant mental gymnastics, but a little mental stimulation goes a long way in keeping them happy. Toss in a puzzle feeder or engage in a game of hide-and-seek – watch those clever minds at work.

The American Shorthair is known for its strong and muscular build. It boasts distinctive facial features, including a round head, widespread ears, and large, expressive eyes. 

• Size 

The American Shorthair boasts a robust and muscular physique, giving it a powerful and sturdy appearance. 

With a well-proportioned body, these cats are known for their medium to large size. An average American Shorthair cat weighs around 10 to 15 pounds.

• Coat Colors

American Shorthairs showcase a diverse range of colors and patterns, adding to their visual appeal. 

American Shorthairs have a variety of coat colors, such as white, silver, black, cream, blue, brown, and red. This diverse range caters to different preferences, making the breed visually captivating with options for every taste.

When it comes to male or female American Shorthair, there are many significant differences.

Male American Shorthairs are generally larger, weighing up to 15 pounds, while females usually weigh around 12 pounds. This size variation contributes to visible differences in their overall appearance.

In terms of behavior, gender differences may be subtle. Males potentially display more assertiveness and territorial behavior, while females may exhibit a nurturing demeanor.

When it comes to feeding your American Shorthair, a balanced diet is key to their well-being. This means providing a mix of protein, fat, and carbohydrates tailored to their specific needs. 

High-quality cat food is recommended, chosen based on factors such as age, weight, and activity level. Ensuring they get the right nutrients in their diet helps maintain their health and vitality, contributing to a happy and contented feline friend. 

Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized dietary recommendations for your individual cat.

American Shorthairs are generally healthy cats, but they can be prone to certain health problems, including these: 

• Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: American Shorthairs may face hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a heart condition where the muscles thicken, affecting blood pumping. Regular vet check-ups are crucial for early detection and management.
• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia, causing abnormal hip joint development, can impact mobility. Monitoring and a vet's advice help manage this condition for improved quality of life.
• Obesity: Prone to obesity, American Shorthairs benefit from a balanced diet, portion control, and exercise to prevent health issues like diabetes and joint problems. Regular vet visits monitor and address weight concerns early on.

Grooming your American Shorthair is easy, thanks to their low-maintenance coat. Unlike long-haired breeds, these cats don't require regular brushing. However, be prepared for some shedding, especially during spring when they shed their winter coats.

To keep their coat in top condition and minimize shedding, a simple comb-through every so often will do the trick. This helps remove loose hair and keeps your American Shorthair looking sleek and tidy. 

Overall, their grooming routine is straightforward, making them an easy and delightful breed to care for.

Consider adopting from reputable rescue groups dedicated to American Shorthairs. These organizations provide a loving home for cats in need.

AmericanShorthair.RescueMe.org

Chewy.com

The average American Shorthair price can depend on the breeder, costing somewhere around $600 to $1200. Here are some places you can buy or adopt an American Shorthair from:

AdoptAPet.com

GoKitty.com

• American Shorthairs have received the prestigious title of CFA’s “Cat of the Year” three times—in 1965, 1984, and 1996.
• They display over 80 different color and pattern combinations, including tortoiseshell, tabby, smoke, and more, while colors range from white and blue to red, silver, golden, and beyond.
• Former President George Bush's family had a black American Shorthair named "India" as a beloved pet in the White House.

A perfect choice for families, singles, and seniors alike, the American Shorthair adapts well to various living environments.