July 12, 2025, 3:22 pm | Read time: 5 minutes
Robust, charming, and with a centuries-old history: The American Shorthair is more than just an ordinary house cat. Originally brought to America by the first settlers as a mouse catcher, this hardworking past has evolved into a versatile and family-friendly breed.
The American Shorthair is one of the most original cat breeds in North America, exemplifying adaptability, health, and naturalness. Originally known as the “Domestic Shorthair,” it was shaped into a distinct breed over generations through natural selection and targeted breeding. These cats owe their existence to European settlers who brought their furry companions to the New World in the 17th century as pest controllers.
Today, the American Shorthair impresses not only with its attractive appearance in over 60 color variations but also with its balanced character, intelligence, and pronounced playfulness. Although it is rarely found in Europe, it is very popular in the U.S.–as an uncomplicated, long-lived, and affectionate house cat with a touch of pioneer spirit.
Origin
The American Shorthair has its roots in the immigration history of North America. European settlers brought house cats on their ships in the 17th century–including on the legendary “Mayflower” in 1620–to protect their supplies from rodents. In the New World, these cats initially became known as “Domestic Shorthair” and continued to serve as valued mouse hunters in settlements and on farms. Only the most resilient animals survived the harsh climate and challenges of the early colonial period, leading to natural selection and a particularly robust population.
At the beginning of the 20th century, breeders began to preserve and further develop this original form. In 1904, the first American Shorthair was officially registered with the tomcat Buster Brown, and in 1966, the breed received its name, which remains valid today–to clearly distinguish it from ordinary house cats without a defined standard. While it is now an integral part of cat breeding in the U.S., its distribution in Europe remains limited–partly because it is not recognized by all international associations.
Appearance & Coat
The American Shorthair is a medium to large, sturdily built cat with a muscular body, broad shoulders, and robust, medium-length legs. Its physique reflects its origin as a working animal–strong yet agile. The broad head is characterized by a square muzzle, full cheeks, and a concave profile with a slight nose stop. The eyes are large, set wide apart, and slightly slanted. Allowed eye colors are primarily gold and green, matching the coat color.
The ears are medium-sized, upright, and end in slightly rounded tips. The tail is also medium-length, strong at the base, and ends bluntly. The coat is short, very dense, and close-fitting–ideal for protection against weather conditions. The texture is reminiscent of the European Shorthair.
The color selection is remarkably diverse: According to the Cat Fanciers Association, black, white, blue, red, cream, chinchilla, smoke, shaded, calico, and all tabby variants are allowed. The “silver tabby,” which visually resembles well-known advertising cats, is particularly popular.
Character & Temperament
The American Shorthair is considered balanced, friendly, and intelligent. It has a natural hunting instinct deeply rooted in its history–but does not appear aggressive or dominant in everyday life. Instead, it is described as calm, playful, and adaptable. It appreciates human company without being intrusive and often forms a close bond with its caregivers.
This breed is very suitable for families, as it is child-friendly and tolerant of other pets, including dogs. Its reserved yet curious nature makes it a pleasant roommate. It usually handles noisy environments calmly–as long as there are places to retreat.
Training & Activity
American Shorthairs are mentally alert and capable of learning. They respond positively to clicker training, intelligence toys, and interactive games that allow them to express their hunting behavior. Play wands, balls, or small stuffed mice–anything they can move and chase–are particularly popular.
They require regular, varied activities to be mentally and physically engaged. Despite their easygoing nature, their enthusiasm for movement should not be underestimated. Failing to provide enough stimulation risks boredom or weight gain.
Proper Care & Maintenance
The American Shorthair is generally adaptable but benefits significantly from controlled outdoor access or a secured balcony. Alternatively, extensive activity options are essential for indoor living: scratching posts, climbing structures, and interactive toys are part of the basic equipment.
Even though it can entertain itself well, it needs regular attention. Retreat areas are important, as are daily playtimes.
The dense short coat is easy to care for: weekly brushing is usually sufficient–especially during the shedding season. Grooming primarily serves to strengthen the bond between cat and owner.
Nutrition
American Shorthairs tend to gain weight if they lack exercise. A balanced, species-appropriate diet with a high meat content and without sugar or grains is crucial. Dry food should only be offered as a supplement and in moderation.
Ideal are wet food varieties with clearly declared meat content, supplemented by occasional treats in the form of raw or cooked meat. For outdoor cats, regular deworming is recommended, as they can ingest worm larvae through mouse hunting.
Susceptibility to Certain Diseases
Although the American Shorthair is considered extremely robust, it is more frequently associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). This hereditary heart disease leads to thickening of the heart muscle and is incurable. Regular veterinary check-ups, including heart ultrasounds, are recommended, especially for breeding animals.
Additionally, the American Shorthair is prone to obesity–primarily in pure indoor living. Exercise and a balanced diet are therefore central preventive measures.
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The American Shorthair at a Glance
- Character: friendly, calm, playful, people-oriented
- Size: 30–35 cm
- Weight: 3–7 kg
- Coat: short, dense, easy to care for
- Colors: over 60 recognized color variations, including tabby, smoke, calico
- Care: minimal effort, weekly brushing recommended
- Special Features: strong hunting instinct, HCM risk, long-lived (15–20 years), rare in Europe