While not quite known for their athleticism, the American Shorthair cat is still known for being the perfect family cat as they are generally patient, intelligent, and love to play. Being one of the most popular breeds in America, their breed’s name is very fitting given how they’ve been in the United States since the country was founded. Keep reading to learn the history, temperament, appearance, health concerns, dietary requirements, and additional facts of the loving and easygoing American Shorthair cat.

American Shorthair History

Dating all the way back to the 1600’s when early settlers arrived in North America, cats were brought aboard ships to help with catching rodents. Afterwards, as pioneers journeyed westward across the land, cats were utilized to protect farms and homes from vermin. Throughout this process, people quickly learned that a specific breed of cat was superior at these appointed tasks than competing cats, and so the American Shorthair breed was born! Featured at the very first American cat show back in 1895, and then later recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association in 1906, this breed of cat has been a staple of the United States for quite some time. Originally labeled the Domestic Shorthair, this breed’s name was changed in 1965 to the American Shorthair name which we know them as today.

Temperament

Despite their superb mouse-catching skills, the American Shorthair breed is known for their laidback and sweet personalities while also being slightly aloof. As they are independent and don’t require constant attention, these curious and playful felines still tend to get along well in social homes with children, dogs, any even other cats. When they’re not cuddling or playing with their owners, American Shorthairs love to simply gaze out the window and nap in their favorite sunspot.

Appearance & Coat Care

As their name states, American Shorthairs have short dense coats that appear shiny and lush when they’re properly groomed. Coming in an assortment of tabby, dark, and white colors, these furry felines feature the largest variety of coat colors that’s observed in any cat breed. Fortunately, no matter what coat your American Shorthair has, they are relatively easy to groom as they are professionals at cleaning themselves. While you don’t need to brush them year-round, this breed’s peak shedding season is in the springtime so it’s important to regularly groom them during these months.

Health Concerns

Fortunately, American Shorthairs are a relatively healthy breed, however, due to their large mix of ancestry, there are many different health conditions that they can be prone to. Two of the most common conditions observed in this loveable breed are Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (or other cardiovascular issues) and Lower Urinary Tract Disease. Additionally, it’s important to regularly take your American Shorthair into the veterinarian so that they can brush their teeth, clean out their ears, and overall assess the condition of their health.

American Shorthair Facts

• American Shorthairs are extremely popular cats as celebrities such as Drew Barrymore, Morgan Freeman, Axl Rose, and Macklemore have all stated to have one of their own.
• The average lifespan for an American Shorthair is between 12-to-17 years.
• The American Shorthair comes in a coat variety of more than 80 colors and patterns.
• These cats have stronger jaw muscles than other cats, which makes them a feared predator of mice and other rodents.
• Mark Twain was a huge fan of American Shorthair cats and once said, “If a man could be crossed with a cat, it would improve the man, but deteriorate the cat.”

Dietary Requirements of American Shorthairs

The American Shorthair breed loves to eat and, if left to their own devices, may consume to the point of obesity. To manage your furless friend’s food intake, measure their food and feed your cat twice a day. For an optimum diet, be sure to sprinkle a scoop of Dr. Bill’s Feline Ultimate Fitness & Health on their food every day. Feline Fitness & Health is a delicious, concentrated nutritional powder, scientifically formulated to provide a balanced blend of 50-nutrients that support optimum fitness and health in growing, physically mature, and senior cats. Designed to promote a strong, lean body, a healthy immune system, a balanced digestive tract, flexible joints, plus healthy eye, heart and brain function. Feline Fitness & Health is safe for growing and adult American Shorthair cats of all ages.