In the realm of feline elegance, the American Shorthair cat stands as a true embodiment of grace, charm, and enduring appeal. With their classic looks, amiable temperament, and rich history, American Shorthairs have earned a special place in the hearts of cat enthusiasts around the world. Let’s explore the captivating allure and timeless charm of this beloved cat breed.
History
Documents show that a number of shorthaired cats came to America with the Mayflower and other ships. They may have sneaked in, but they were immediately appreciated for keeping the rodent population under control on the ships and afterwards on the farms of the settlers. The American barn cats were chosen less for their beauty and more for their inherent hunting ability and toughness. But as the number of cats in America increased, farmers started to hold onto the kittens that caught their eye due to their vivid colors, striking patterns, overall conformation, and personalities.
American shorthairs gained so much popularity by the 1890s that they were first displayed in 1895 at Madison Square Garden's inaugural national cat show.
Madison Square Garden hosted the nation's first official cat show in 1895. Twenty-five kittens and forty-six adults from the American cat breed known only as Shorthair were entered at the competition.
Many were priced higher than the imported Persians and Siamese that were being offered for sale. This beautiful breed of cat was selected by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) to be one of its initial five pedigreed breeds. In 1900, the first Shorthair to be registered with the CFA was born. Ch. Belle of Bradford was the name of an orange (red) tabby cat.
As early as 1906, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) had acknowledged them as one of the breeds. They are currently among the most well-liked cat breeds in the nation.
Over time, the Shorthair breed's popularity in the show ring increased. Simultaneously, cat shows became more and more popular, and numerous new breeds were developed and brought in. Breeders of Shorthairs began to feel that their breed required a more unique name around 1930. The domestically created cat strain in America was given the moniker Domestic Shorthair. The name change turned out to be a really bad idea. A term that was meant to set American-bred cats apart from imported or artificial breeds became associated with domestic (home) helpers. The breed fell from grace because of its name. The popularity of the breed decreased during the next thirty years.
Breed enthusiasts realized in 1961 that the breed needed yet another name change. They succeeded in giving the breed its present moniker, American Shorthair. The name currently reflects the belief that the shorthaired cat breed native to North America differs greatly from the cats of today's neighborhoods and barnyards. Just as any given domestic cat might appear like a Siamese or a Persian, so too might an unpedigreed shorthaired cat by chance resemble an American Shorthair. But the real question is whether the animal can reliably reproduce in the same way as a pedigreed cat—that is, with kittens that have the same conformation, coat quality, and temperament. Today's breeders are able to guarantee that every kitten litter will have particular traits because of years of selective breeding and the documentation of numerous generations of cats. The goal of planning a litter is to yield the best possible examples of the breed.
Around the world, the breed made a comeback from poverty to wealth. An American Shorthair won the prestigious Cat of the Year award in 1965. Since then, a large number of Americans have won national and regional championships, including two more Cat of the Year awards in 1984 and 1996. It is quite an accomplishment for the breed to have produced three of these cats. Since the 1970s, the American Shorthair is actually the only shorthaired breed to have achieved this honor.
Classic Beauty
American Shorthair cats are known for their classic and well-balanced appearance. They have a medium to large-sized body with a muscular build, reflecting their heritage as skilled hunters. Their coat is short, dense, and plush, providing a soft texture and a luxurious appearance. American Shorthairs come in a wide array of colors and patterns, from tabby and solid to calico and bicolor, showcasing the breed’s diversity and beauty.
Friendly Disposition
One of the standout qualities of American Shorthair cats is their friendly and easygoing temperament. They are known for their gentle nature, making them wonderful companions for families, singles, and seniors alike. American Shorthairs are sociable without being overly demanding, striking a perfect balance between affectionate and independent. They are often described as loyal, playful, and adaptable, making them an ideal choice for households with children and other pets.
Low Maintenance Companions
American Shorthair cats are relatively low maintenance in terms of grooming. Their short coats require minimal brushing, making them suitable for cat lovers who prefer a pet with less grooming needs. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and regular play and exercise are essential for their overall well-being. With proper care, American Shorthairs can live long and healthy lives, bringing joy and companionship to their owners for many years.
A Cherished Member of the Family
In today’s fast-paced world, the American Shorthair cat serves as a reminder of simpler times. Their classic beauty, friendly demeanor, and unwavering loyalty have earned them a place as cherished members of countless families. Whether they are curling up on a cozy lap, chasing after a feather toy, or simply offering a comforting presence, American Shorthair cats continue to bring warmth and happiness to households around the globe.
Care and health
The excellent 15–20 year lifetime of the American Shorthair cat is attributed to its general health. India, the all-black American Shorthair who was George W. Bush's "first cat" in the White House, lived to be a magnificent eighteen.
One of the strongest and healthiest cat breeds is the American Shorthair. Her background as a farm-working cat and the decades-long strengthening of her gene pool by devoted breeders are the sources of her iron health. That does not, however, offer her an excuse to put off visiting the veterinarian! She still has to get dewormed on a regular basis and get all of the basic vaccinations, especially if you plan on letting her go outside. Here's another incentive to make sure your cat gets regular dewormers: she will gladly hunt little rodents that have the misfortune of frequenting your garden.
If this breed doesn't receive enough activity, she tends to gain weight. Therefore, if your cat becomes very obese, you might need to use a weight-management strategy. If you are unsure about which brand to choose, discuss your options with your veterinarian.
Nonetheless, the breed is linked to a few significant medical issues,
The illness known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is typified by an increase in the myocardium's volume.
In cats, HCM is the most prevalent kind of cardiac disease, and compared to some other breeds, American Shorthairs may be more susceptible to the condition.
Early diagnosis of HCM is mostly dependent on routine cardiac exams and genetic testing, as the disorder might go undetected in its early stages. Cats who have the condition may become lethargic, have trouble breathing, and possibly even develop heart failure.
Make sure the cats in your care have undergone HCM screening when dealing with a respectable American Shorthair breeder. In case your cat was adopted or saved, at-home DNA assays can identify HCM in cats even before symptoms show up.
Dental Conditions
Cats frequently suffer from dental disease, but it can be avoided with basic dental care provided at home and by making regular appointments for veterinary examinations and cleanings. Indicators of feline oral illness include:
- foul breath
- Bruised, red gums
- Tartar accumulation or tooth discolouration
- gnawing on the lips
- giving up food
- sighing
- Absence of hunger
Items to Provide for an American Shorthair
Aside from a high-quality commercial meal that satisfies the dietary guidelines established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), American Shorthairs don't need a specific diet.
As various age cats require varied amounts of nutrients, be sure the food you select is appropriate for their stage of life. Food designed for "all life stages" or "growth" is necessary for American Shorthair kittens, whereas adult and senior cats require "adult maintenance" meals.
Your veterinarian is the ideal person to consult if you're not sure which diet is best for your American Shorthair cat or kitten.
Interesting Facts
- The author Mark Twain was an avid cat lover who had several pets that resembled modern American shorthair cats in old photographs. "If a man and a cat could be crossed, it would improve the man but deteriorate the cat," he once said.
- American shorthairs have figured in a number of commercials, such as those for the Royal Canin cat food brand and the Cat-opoly board game.
- The moniker "the American shorthair" wasn't given to these cats until 1906.
- The American Shorthair Cat Breed Is Extremely Hardy
The American Shorthair's progenitors were developed to be disease- and cold-resistant cats, which made them excellent mice hunters on farms and in barns. This characteristic has been handed down through the generations and accounts for the breed's strong health when combined with the species' high genetic variety. - The Breed Was Only Recently Officially Recognized
Only in 1966 was the American Shorthair given this name to set it apart from other domestic shorthair breeds. - American Shorthairs Don't Speak Much
The American Shorthair is neither unduly reserved nor unduly showy, in contrast to many other cats, and it does not meow for attention. His favorite thing to do is to watch you discreetly from your side while you go about your business.
In essence, the American Shorthair cat breed embodies the enduring charm of a true classic. Their timeless appeal, coupled with their loving nature, makes them not just pets but beloved family members, enriching the lives of all those fortunate enough to share their home with these wonderful feline companions.
