American Shorthair Cat
Cat Facts

The American Shorthair cat (ASH) is a robust 'working cat' that has been around for five centuries, albeit under a different name, the Domestic Shorthair. Over time, the breed has evolved and this magnificent cat no longer earns its keep by ensuring that homes and farms are rodent free. Well, they are still ardent hunters, but let's just say that nowadays, hunting is done on their terms.

These domestic cats are medium-to-large and solidly built cats and whilst medium-boned, they are very muscular and powerful cats with well developed shoulders, chest and hindquarters. American Shorthair cats are described as robust and sturdy cats that are slightly longer than they are tall. Their legs compliment their bodies and are medium in length and also heavily muscled. They have a heavy, medium length tail which is broad at the base and gently tapers to a blunt tip.

To compliment their solidly built body, these cats have large heads and full-cheeks which gives their face a sweet, open expression. In our opinion, they are 'masculine-looking' cats - they have a long strong jaw (which helps for catching prey), square muzzle, square and well developed chin. Male cats often have jowls. Ears are medium sized with rounded tips and are set quite wide apart.

Their large, wide-set eyes are bright and alert and the eye-color must be appropriate to the coat color. Whilst a brilliant gold eye color is seen in most coats, blue or odd-eyes are seen in white cats; green and hazel eyes are seen in tabbies and green to blue-green eyes are found in tipped coats.

Coat Length, Texture and Color

Talking of coats - these beauties come in a wide range of colors and patterns - Solid colors (i.e. Red, Blue, Black, White); Smoke, Bi-colors, Parti-colors and a range of Tabbies (i.e. Patched, Classic and Mackerel and Tortie). Note: Color Point, Lilac and Chocolate are not recognized colors in the American Shorthair cat.

The American Shorthair cat was originally a working cat, used for catching rodents. As a result of this the cat developed a thick, dense and hard textured coat - a coat to protect them from the elements and from their prey and predators. Their coat is described as short, thick and glossy with hair that lies close to the body. For extra measure, they have a dense undercoat that protects the cat from cold, moisture and superficial skin injuries.

American Shorthair Personality

The American Shorthair is a placid, calm, easy-going cat - loving and affectionate by nature with a sweet disposition. They do adore their owners, but are not very demanding of their attention.

Basically, they subscribe to the theory of let's be seen but not heard. It is said that they are not a very demonstrative cat, but prefer to be a quiet companion. In other words, they like to be close to you, not on top of you. Whilst they can tolerate solitude, they do prefer the company of their owners.

This does not mean they are lazy couch potatoes, to the contrary, they are playful and athletic, outgoing and most of all, very intelligent. They are independent and very alert cats which makes them excellent hunters. These cats demonstrate power, endurance and agility.

American Shorthair Cat Facts

Are they Child Friendly Cats?

Yes. These cats make wonderful companions for the young and old. These even tempered cats have been known to tolerate 'dress-up' and dolls and will seek the company of a child at nap time and playtime. They do prefer to be on the ground and will struggle to be put down if carried for any length of time.

Do they tolerate other Pets?

Yes, they do get on well with dogs and other cats.

Is this an Indoor or Outdoor cat?

American Shorthair cats are not suited to a totally indoor lifestyle and apartment living is not ideal for them.

They are active cats - excellent hunters who need access to a large, safe, enclosed garden. A kitty enclosure would be ideal - an adventure zone filled with kitty toys, gyms, non-toxic plants and cat scratchers. An enclosure of this type will allow for safe access to the outdoors.

Any Cat Health Problems?

This is a cat with a hardy constitution - a hearty and healthy breed, but as with most cats, some lines do have hereditary/ genetic issues:

• HCM or Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy is a common heart disease found in some lines of the breed.
• Feline hip dysplasia can also be found in certain cats, so do get a health guarantee from your cat breeder.

Always take your cat for an annual health check-up. At this visit, the veterinarian will administer annual booster vaccinations, deworm your cat and check their teeth.

Cat insurance or rather pet health insurance is always recommended.

Cat Grooming and Cat Care

Even though they have a short coat, it does need to be brushed once a week. During shedding time (change of season), more frequent brushing may be required. The American Shorthair cat is a medium-low maintenance cat breed.

For complete cat care visit our comprehensive grooming pages.

Dietary Requirements

They are prone to obesity so it's important that they are fed a well balanced diet. Do not overfeed your cat, portions need to be controlled. Chat to your vet about diet cat food if your cat shows signs of gaining weight. Visit our cat nutrition and cat food chapters for info related to diet. Avoid or at the very least restrict the intake of treats and milk and dairy products.

Always provide your cat with fresh, clean drinking water.

Cat Weight

The average weight is 3.5 - 7.0 kg (8.0 - 15.0 lbs). Male cats are heavier than female cats.

How long can I expect my cat to live?

Be prepared for long-term commitment! The American Shorthair has an average life span of between 12 - 20 years. We have some great information about extending your cat's life in our chapter on 'how long do cats live?'

* Before purchasing a cat, always do thorough research into the bloodlines and genetics of your cat and always buy from reputable cat breeders.

Related Cat Information:

American Shorthair cat - Origin and the history of the breed

American Shorthair Cat Pictures Courtesy of:

Top: © Theresa Fouche - Kashew's Angkor Rinpoche Black Silver Shaded and White American , Owners: D Walstra and K Green, Breeder: Wendy Welham

Bottom: © Photographer Larry Johnson -www.johnsonanimalphoto.com - Grand Champion Caellcats RedTexanAtDawn of Catalpa, Owner: Leslie Herman.