shorthair

American Shorthair

Origin: North America (European working cat stock)

America's own breed, descended from European cats that arrived with the first colonists. Robust, healthy, and adaptable — excellent family cats with a naturally long lifespan.

Origin: North America (European working cat stock)
Category: shorthair
Lifespan: 15–20 yrs
Size: Medium-Large
Weight: 3.6–7.3 kg
Coat: Short, thick, hard working coat
Colours: Over 80 colour and pattern combinations

😺 Temperament

AdaptableEasy-goingPlayfulIndependent

🏡 Best suited to

All householdsFamilies with childrenFirst-time ownersBusy lifestyles

📊 Personality ratings

Activity level 3/5

Grooming needs 1/5

Friendliness 4/5

Vocality 2/5

Intelligence 3/5

📜 History & origin

American Shorthairs descended from the working cats brought by European settlers on the Mayflower and subsequent ships to control rodents. They evolved naturally in North America, developing a heavier, more muscular build than their European ancestors. The breed was formally registered in 1906 as 'Shorthair', later renamed 'Domestic Shorthair', and finally 'American Shorthair' in 1966.

🧼 Care & grooming

One of the easiest breeds to care for. Weekly brushing keeps their coat healthy. They are independent enough to be left alone during work hours but enjoy play sessions. Excellent mousers by instinct. Their hardy constitution means vet visits tend to be routine rather than urgent.

🩺 Health notes

One of the healthiest pedigree breeds due to their naturally diverse genetic background. Some predisposition to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Their hardy working-cat heritage means few congenital disorders. Regular dental care is recommended as dental disease is common in the breed.

Fun fact: The classic silver tabby American Shorthair is so frequently photographed it is arguably the most recognisable cat image in American advertising history.