This cat is particularly widespread in the United States, but also in Japan. It is similar to the British shorthair and the European shorthair, which is better known in France. Of medium size, the American Shorthair is above all a hunter. He prefers outdoor life, but adapts perfectly to living in an apartment. Independent, he remains very affectionate and pleasant to live with. He appreciates caresses and is attached to his owner. He likes to play with children and is not against the company of congeners or dogs, with whom he shares his space without difficulty.
Breed History
The origin of the American Shorthair is in Europe, especially in Great Britain. It was imported by European settlers several centuries ago to the American continent. He descends from the European alley cat. The American Shorthair initially had as its main mission to guard the cereals of American farmers from the invasion of rodents. In the early 20th century, a group of breeders began a targeted breeding program. It was during this period that the breed, previously known as the “Domestic Shorthair”, obtained the name “American Shorthair”.
Although the breed struggled to establish itself at first, it gradually entered many American homes. The American Shorthair is now essential in the United States, but also in Japan, where it enjoys a very beautiful coast.
Physical peculiarities
His body: he has a medium-sized body, quite muscular, slender.
His hair: the American Shorthair has a short, thick and regular coat. Its dress is provided, very resistant, which allows it to live outdoors even in extreme conditions. It resists the cold very well.
Its color: many colors are allowed. It ranges from chocolate color to lilac. The American Shorthair is best known for its silver classic tabby coat. This is a bright silver background with the presence of contrasting black traces.
His head: he has a round head, with fairly developed cheeks and a square muzzle.
His eyes: the eyes of the American Shorthair are particularly wide apart, round, in perfect harmony with the face, neither too big nor too small. The color is often harmonized with the coat of the cat.
His ears: they are slightly spaced and of a size considered medium. They are rounded at their end.
Its tail: it is rather long, with a thick layer of hair at its base. It gradually refines to finish on a rounded tip.
Feed
Depending on its morphology and daily physical activity, the American Shorthair eats an average of 80 to 180 grams of kibble per day. It is imperative to make him exercise and watch his rations because he is prone to obesity.
It must have access to fresh, clean and regularly renewed water.
