American Shorthair
Origin
United States
Lifespan
15-20 years
Weight
4-6 kg
Coat
Various
American Shorthairs are the pedigreed version of domestic shorthairs - athletic, adaptable, and great family cats.
Breed Ratings
Temperament
Overview
The American Shorthair descended from cats brought to America on the Mayflower. They're the 'working cats' of the breed world—hardy, adaptable, and excellent mousers. With their muscular build and variety of colors, they're quintessentially American cats.
Health
American Shorthairs are generally very healthy with few breed-specific issues. Some may be prone to Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). They can gain weight easily, so diet management is important. Lifespan is typically 15-20 years.
Care & Grooming
Weekly brushing keeps their dense coat healthy. They're low-maintenance cats who adapt to various living situations. Provide opportunities for hunting play to satisfy their natural instincts. Monitor food intake as they love to eat.
Is This Breed Right for You?
Best For
- Families
- First-time cat owners
- Any household
Not Ideal For
- Those wanting exotic looks