The American Shorthair is a popular cat breed known for being friendly, strong, and easy to care for. Its gentle and adaptable nature makes it a great pet for families and single people. The American Shorthair is becoming even more popular as more people discover how wonderful it is to have this beautiful, easygoing cat breed. 

Let’s explore the history of the American Shorthair, their qualities, and how to care for them properly.

American Shorthair Cat Facts

The American Shorthair cat breed originated from ship cats brought to North America by European settlers to control rodents. These cats were known for their hunting skills and resilience. 

Over time, breeders refined the breed's appearance while maintaining its strong traits. By the early 1900s, American Shorthairs were recognized as a distinct short-haired cat breed. Today, they are valued for their historical significance and adaptability to modern life.

American Shorthair’s Characteristics​

American Shorthairs are known for their balanced, muscular build and thick, short coat that provides insulation and a soft texture. Their bodies are typically strong and well-proportioned, reflecting both strength and agility. Male American Shorthairs tend to be larger than females, with some weighing up to 15 pounds or more.

The American Shorthair cat comes in various colors and patterns, with the silver tabby being the most popular. Eye color also varies depending on the coat color. This breed's coat is easy to care for and visually appealing, making it a popular choice for cat owners.

American Shorthair Cat’s Behavior​ 

American Shorthairs are popular because they're friendly, adaptable, and get along well with people and other animals. They're a great choice for families with children or other pets. While they enjoy the company of others, they are also comfortable spending time alone. This makes them good pets for busy people who still want a loving companion.

These cats are typically quiet, calm, graceful, and enjoy playing, but they are not overly demanding or hyperactive. They can adapt to various environments and are relatively low-maintenance pets. They are a good choice for both experienced and new cat owners.

Need to know more about cat’s behavior in general? Check out our guide to decoding and understanding cat breeds personality.

Caring for Your American Shorthair  

Here are some basic care routines to help your American Shorthair live a long, healthy, and happy life.

1. Diet and Nutrition  

American Shorthairs need a balanced diet with lots of protein to stay healthy and active. Choose cat foods with real meat as the main ingredient. It’s best to avoid foods with fillers like corn or soy. Pet Express offers a variety of good-quality wet cat food and dry cat food from high-quality cat food brands, like Royal Canin, Whiskas cat food, and Aozi cat food, perfect for American Shorthairs.

2. Grooming Needs  

American Shorthair cats have short, easy-to-care-for fur. Brushing them occasionally to remove loose hair and keep their coat shiny. Weekly brushing also helps reduce shedding and hairballs. Using the right pet grooming tools does wonders when caring for American Shorthair cats. Pet Express sells pet brushes that are gentle on your cat's skin and keep their coat healthy.

3. Hygiene and Comfort

A clean litter box is essential for your American Shorthair’s hygiene and comfort. Make sure to scoop the cat litter box daily and change the litter regularly to prevent odors and bacteria buildup. When choosing litter, look for clumping types that can help with easy clean-up. Pet Express provides a range of high-quality cat litter sand and litter boxes to suit your cat’s needs, ensuring a pleasant environment for them.

4. Exercise and Playtime  

While not the most active breed, American Shorthairs still require regular exercise to stay healthy and fit. Interactive toys for cats, like feather wands and puzzle feeders, are excellent choices as they engage both their bodies and minds. When looking for the perfect toys for American Shorthairs, look up Pet Express’s collection of pet toys including laser pointers, catnip toys, and interactive play tunnels.

5. Health Considerations  

American Shorthairs are generally healthy cats but can be prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) or heart muscle thickening. Regular vet check-ups, a healthy diet, and a stress-free environment can help reduce the risk of these health issues. Pet Express is here to help you care for your American Shorthairs offering products like cat supplements and wellness products to support their overall health. You can also book vet care services for cats at Pet Express.

Why an American Shorthair Could Be Your Perfect Companion

American Shorthairs are a great choice for cat lovers due to their charm, independence, and low-maintenance care. They have a balanced temperament and a rich history. Their friendliness, intelligence, and resilience appeal to new and experienced cat owners. Whether you’re a first-time or an experienced cat owner, this breed's mix of kindness, smarts, and toughness will surely charm you.

Looking to bring home an American Shorthair? Pet Express has everything you need to welcome your new feline friend! Shop our premium cat food, grooming supplies, fun toys, and health products to keep your kitty happy and healthy.