Cat
Breed Description:
The American Shorthair must compliment each other presenting the picture perfect vision of a 'cat". The breed ranges in size from medium to large. The American Shorthiar females are slightly smaller and not frail or dainty appearing. The overall body is well knit, powerful, showing good depth and full chest, head is in balance with the body, broad with cheeks well developed in males, nose and face medium short with eyes set wide apart, tail in proportion with the body, thick at base and tapering toward the end.
Temperament:
The American Short Hair breed possesses an easygoing or laid-back personality type. American Shorthairs are perfect feline companions; they do not require constant attention and are frankly the quintessential cats. American Short Hair cats are affectionate and devoted animals. These cats are easily trained and enjoy children. They are sociable and will provide enjoyment for their owners without a high maintenance feeling.
Weight:
Medium to large.
Health Problems:
This breed is known for its longevity, robust health.
Exercise:
A very athletic cat, American Shorthair has a larger, leaner, and more powerfully built body than its relation, the British Shorthair.
Grooming:
Coat should be short lustrous, well bodied and close lying, giving an even textured and natural protective appearance. Usually, the fur needs only a weekly combing with a good steel comb. During the twice-yearly shedding seasons - fall and spring - additional combing is helpful in keeping from accumulating and reducing the risk of the cat getting 'hair balls".
Origin:
The breed is believed to be descended from English cats (the forebears of today's British Shorthairs) brought to North America by early British settlers to protect valuable cargo from mice and rats. When settlers sailed from Britain to North America they carried cats on board ship to protect the stores from mice. Most of these cats "settled" in the New World, interbred, and developed special characteristics to help them cope with their new life and climate. Early this century a selective breeding program was established to develop the best qualities of these cats. 