Cat Breed Guide: American Shorthair

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

American Shorthairs have broad chests, muscular bodies, large heads, full cheeks and wide eyes that give them a unique appearance—but it's not just their unique appearance that have helped the working cats earn a following.¹

The breed, which resulted from selective breeding of the working cats that traveled from Europe to the United States aboard ships, has all the traits that make them ideal companions. American Shorthairs are attractive and athletic. They tend to be outgoing and adaptable, and they relish their role as affectionate lap cats.²

History and Origins

Early settlers who sailed to America relied on cats to hunt rats and mice to protect the food stored on their ships. The working cats were initially revered for their strength and superior hunting skills, but it didn't take long for cat fanciers to take note of their varied coat colors and patterns.³

Dedicated breeders began selecting these "Domestic Shorthairs" for their specific characteristics. That selective breeding led to the modern-day American Shorthair, though the official breed moniker didn't emerge until the 1960s.³

It wasn't just their stunning good looks that led the American Shorthair to become a popular breed. Their intelligence and affectionate nature helped make them preferred family pets.²

American Shorthair Physical Characteristics

American Shorthairs have a distinct appearance, with large heads, full cheeks and big, wide eyes.¹ Eye colors include green, blue, copper, gold and hazel.² It's a medium-to large-sized cat breed, with American Shorthairs weighing 10 to 15 pounds.⁴ The breed has 44 distinct colors and patterns, including:¹

• White
• Cream
• Black
• Black and white
• Tortoiseshell
• Black smoke
• Brown patched tabby
• Silver tabby
• Calico

Their colorful coats are low-maintenance. Regular brushing helps remove excess hair and prevent mats, which is especially helpful when American Shorthairs are shedding their thicker, seasonal coats.² Their grooming routine should include nail trims and ear cleaning, along with oral care that focuses on brushing their teeth and scheduling routine dental exams with your veterinarian.³

American Shorthair Personality and Temperament

American Shorthairs are cats that act like dogs. Instead of being independent and aloof, the breed tends to be affectionate, laid-back and outgoing.² These are cats that want to be close to their families, and they make excellent lap cats. Their social needs are best described as “strongly prefers companionship."⁴ It's a breed well suited to families who want friendly feline shadows.

American Shorthairs are tolerant and curious, making them entertaining companions that adapt well to all kinds of living situations—from homes with children to homes with other cats and even canine companions.²

This is an active breed that needs regular exercise.⁴ Playing with feathers, motorized mice and other interactive toys can get American Shorthairs moving and climbing trees. Wall-mounted cat shelves enable them to explore.²

During their alone time, American Shorthairs will happily nap in a sunny windowsill. But their favorite place to be is by your side, so be prepared to offer lots of attention when you're home.²

American Shorthair Health and Care

American Shorthairs are considered a rugged breed, with a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years.² They can be diagnosed with common health issues that affect all cats.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Thickening of the heart muscle in the left ventricle can reduce blood flow to the heart, making it harder for the heart to pump blood and oxygen to the body. This condition, called hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), can lead to congestive heart failure. In cats, HCM is often caused by a deficiency of taurine in their diets, but American Shorthairs can also have a genetic mutation that causes the condition.⁵

Obesity

Almost 60% of domestic cats are overweight. This extra weight puts them at risk for developing diseases like osteoarthritis, diabetes and heart disease. Obesity could also shorten their lifespan. To keep American Shorthairs from becoming overweight, measure their portions, limit treats and prioritize active play.⁶

American Shorthairs need regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations to keep them healthy.²

Suitability for Different Homes

One of the best things about the American Shorthair is their ability to adapt to different living environments. The breed is comfortable in houses or apartments, with a solo owner or families with children, and in homes with other pets.²

American Shorthairs are affectionate, people-oriented cats who would rather spend time with people than alone.² It's important to provide them with attention and return their affection. This is also a medium- to high-energy breed that requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy.⁴

Pets Best Can Help

Purchasing cat insurance may help you pay for veterinary care for your American Shorthair (and all your furry family members). And with the 24/7 Pet Helpline, Pets Best policyholders always have access to veterinary experts for cat health concerns. Get a quote to start protecting your cat today!

Sources/ Citations

1. “The American Shorthair," (10/2022), National American Shorthair Club, https://www.nasc-staging.club/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/ASH-2022-Presentation.pdf
2. “American Shorthair Cats," Doug Jimerson and Claudia Guthrie (8/2024), Daily Paws, https://www.dailypaws.com/cats-kittens/cat-breeds/american-shorthair
3. “American Shorthair," (n.d.), The International Cat Association, https://tica.org/breed/american-shorthair/
4. “American Shorthair," (n.d.), Fanciers Breeder Referral List, https://www.breedlist.com/index.cfm?Page=American-Shorthair
5. “Cardiomyopathy in Cats," Malcolm Weir and Ernest Ward (n.d.), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cardiomyopathy-in-cats
6. “Obesity in Cats," Malcolm Weir et al. (n.d.), VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/obesity-in-cats