The American Shorthair: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The American Shorthair has its origins in Europe, notably in Great Britain. Imported to the American continent by European settlers several centuries ago, it descends from the European alley cat. Its primary mission was to protect the cereals of American farmers against rodents. At the beginning of the 20th century, breeders launched a targeted breeding program. The breed, previously called "Domestic Shorthair", then took the name "American Shorthair". After difficult beginnings, it gradually established itself in many homes and today enjoys strong popularity in the United States and Japan.

The American Shorthair has a medium-sized body, muscular and slender. Its head is round, with developed cheeks and a square muzzle. Its ears, medium and slightly spaced, are rounded at the tip. Its round, well-spaced eyes often show a color harmonized with the coat. Its tail, rather long and thick at the base, tapers to a rounded tip. Its short, thick, even and dense coat offers it good protection against the cold. Many colors are accepted (except chocolate, lilac and colourpoint, excluded from the standard), but the silver classic tabby coat, with a bright silvery background and contrasting black markings, is the most emblematic.

Calm, independent and affectionate, the American Shorthair is also described as intelligent, skillful, agile and loyal. He enjoys the company of his owner and cuddles while maintaining his autonomy.

He likes to play with his owner and children, and willingly shares his space with other cats or dogs. A gifted hunter, he enjoys outings, meetings with his fellow cats and spaces where he can expend energy. He can adapt to apartment living, but easy access to the outdoors remains preferable for his well-being.

The American Shorthair is trained through consistency, play, and measured rewards. It easily learns the litter box, the scratching post, and a few routines if the environment is stable. Avoid constraint: a well-balanced cat responds better to calm interactions.

The purchase price varies depending on the cat and its origin. You should also plan an annual budget for its routine maintenance.

The American Shorthair has robust health inherited from its origins as an outdoor cat. It must nevertheless benefit from the usual veterinary prevention and monitoring adapted to its outings.

Depending on its body type and daily activity, the American Shorthair consumes on average 45 to 90 grams of kibble per day depending on its weight. The ration must be adjusted and monitored due to its predisposition to obesity.

The American Shorthair is also called "American Shorthair". Particularly widespread in the United States, it also enjoys strong popularity in Japan.