American Shorthair

The American Shorthair descends from cats that came to North America with European settlers in the 17th century, aboard ships to protect food supplies from rodents. Over time, they adapted to the new continent, developing a robust and resilient constitution.

In the early 20th century, American breeders began selecting these cats to establish a recognizable breed standard. In 1906, the breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and renamed American Shorthair in 1966.

The American Shorthair is a medium to large-sized cat with a muscular, robust body and a remarkably balanced temperament: neither too active nor sedentary, ideal for families with children, seniors or homes with other pets.

Its personality is sociable but with a degree of independence. Intelligent and curious, it enjoys playing but also knows how to rest quietly, adapting to its family's lifestyle.

The American Shorthair is a relatively low-maintenance breed. Its short coat requires only weekly brushing. The main focus should be on weight management: this breed is prone to weight gain, so portion control and environmental enrichment are essential.

Annual vet check-ups, periodic dental cleaning and cardiac monitoring (due to HCM risk) are essential preventive care measures for a long and healthy life.

The American Shorthair may be prone to some hereditary conditions worth knowing about:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): thickening of the heart walls, the most common heart disease in cats; periodic echocardiography recommended.
• Diabetes mellitus: metabolic disorder favored by excess weight; manageable with diet and, in severe cases, insulin.
• Hyperthyroidism: excessive production of thyroid hormone, common in older cats; treatable with medication or surgery.
• Obesity: genetic predisposition worsened by poor diet or lack of exercise; prevention through controlled portions and activity.

A balanced, high-quality diet is key to your cat's health. Discover our selection of cat food.