American Shorthair Cats

American Shorthair cats are a common breed. The American Shorthair cat is stocky and muscular. Originally, this breed was commonly called the Shorthair. It later was called Domestic Shorthair. In the mid-1960’s, this breed’s name was changed to what it is today, the American Shorthair.

The cats that established this breed were the working cats in America. Cats were often brought to America on ships on which they were used for catching mice and rats. The American Shorthair was one of the first cat breeds recognized in the United States.

The interbreeding between the American Shorthair and non-native breeds has caused variations in the cat’s characteristics. Some breeders worked to preserve the original characteristics of the American Shorthair breed by selectively breeding those cats with characteristics that reflect the breed. Pedigreed American Shorthair cats are therefore different than the variations that can be found on the streets and on farms though they are similar and often mistaken for the same thing.

The accepted variations in the breed are immense. The American Shorthair can be one of over eighty different colors. Male American Shorthair cats are larger than the females. The males typically weigh from eleven to fifteen pounds. The female American Shorthair is usually eight to fourteen pounds.

The American Shorthair is playful, often throughout its life. The American Shorthair is still a working cat in many households. These skilled mousers may bring the trophy kill to the cat owner as if to show off its work. The American Shorthair cats often enjoy toys that encourage stalking and pouncing.

This breed of cat is usually very healthy. The American Shorthair can live from fifteen to twenty years. Many of the American Shorthair cats are healthy up until death. They usually need minimal veterinary care including vaccines and regular checkups.

The personalities of the American Shorthair cats vary greatly. Some American Shorthair cats are independent and aloof. Others seek out the company of their owner and will purr just from being close to their owner. Most American Shorthair cats are relatively playful, though some may decrease in play as they age.