American Shorthair cat – a cat with a gentle character and good health

The popular American Shorthair cat breed is renowned for both its robust health and amiable disposition. This breed, which was first introduced to North America by European settlers, has grown to be a cherished family pet in homes all over the nation. They stand out due to their muscular, sleek build and striking appearance, and families would find them to be the perfect pet due to their calm disposition.

The gentle and flexible nature of the American Shorthair is one of its most endearing characteristics. These cats are wonderful in both busy and more relaxed homes because they are loving without being too demanding. They are gregarious animals that get along well with kids, other animals, and even people.

The hardiness of the American Shorthair is yet another noteworthy benefit. Due to their strong genetic heritage, these cats typically have fewer health problems than many other breeds. They can live long, healthy lives and bring their owners happiness for many years if given the right care.

The American Shorthair cat is a well-liked option for both families and pet enthusiasts due to its amiable, laid-back temperament and robust health. In addition to being lovable and adaptive, this breed also requires little grooming, making upkeep easy. American Shorthairs are the ideal companions, adding happiness and coziness to any home thanks to their resilient nature and lively personalities.

Breed profile

Characteristics

Interesting facts

Fascinating details regarding American Shorthair cats:

• Perhaps one of the main advantages of the breed is the presence of a balanced character. Animals never go to extremes, under any circumstances they behave with restraint. They like to spend time playing active games with their favorite household members.
• Animals are unpretentious in care and maintenance, with the exception of one “but” – a tendency to overeat. The owner must carefully monitor the diet and ensure that the pet does not overeat.
• Shorthaired cats do not like to spend time in hands, so at any convenient opportunity they will “sneak away” and go in search of a more secluded place to take a nap.
• Americans have a well-developed intellect, due to which they can be trained. They learn commands only if they have a trusting relationship with their owner and are taught in a playful way.
• Animals meow extremely rarely, preferring to express their thoughts through lively facial expressions.
• They get along well with other pets, and are no less patient with small children. The only thing is that they may have difficulties getting along with birds and rodents.
• They are able to withstand prolonged loneliness, but it is still not recommended to leave the pet alone at home for a long time.
• They love to hunt. With such "neighbors" in the house there will be no insects or rodents.

History of the origin of the American Shorthair cat

In North America, the American Shorthair cat breed first made its appearance in the first part of the 17th century. When settlers could not find another way to get rid of rodents and other harmful pests, they brought them to the mainland. Cats are now accepted visitors in both private homes and farms.

It has been demonstrated that shorthaired cats make excellent hunters. In the context of natural selection, the hunting instinct of shorthairs became more acute with each successive generation, while the breed also became healthier and more resilient.

Kindly take note! Modern cats have a life expectancy of 17–18 years under ideal circumstances.

Currently, there are over 100 catteries in the US that focus on producing elite breeds. American Shorthairs are becoming more and more popular every year, particularly in Japan. There are over 22 breeding catteries there.

As of 2020, there were roughly 60 examples of the breed in Russia.

Appearance and special features

Cats that are American Shorthair purebreds appear rugged. But this doesn’t take away from the animal’s graceful movements in the slightest. Male cats are larger than female cats, a trait known as sexual dimorphism that defines the breed. Male cats typically weigh 7-8 kg, while female cats typically weigh 4-5 kg.

The neck has medium-sized, robust muscles that are well-developed.

This breed of animal is large or medium sized. They develop gradually; by the time they are four years old, they have reached their full potential.

Head

The heads of American Shorthair representatives are square or rectangular in shape. There is very little difference between the width and length—just a few millimeters. Its slightly convex forehead is particularly apparent when examining the animal in profile.

Muzzle

The muzzle is both short and wide at the same time, giving it angular outlines. The cheeks are full, and the cheekbones are rounded. The animal’s forehead and muzzle transition sharply from one another. The nose has a medium-sized nose. Strong jaws help to form the well-developed chin.

Ears

The tiny ears are spaced widely apart from one another. possess a narrow base, smooth rounded ends, and both. Fur on both the outer and inner surfaces is thick but short.

Eyes

Purebred members of the breed have medium- or large-sized eyes. Their shape is exclusively round, which defines them. The width of the eye itself equals the distance between the eyes.

Except for cats with silver eyes, orange eye color is implied by breed standards. These creatures can be identified by their green iris. A multicolored combination is also feasible.

Body

Americans are known for having bodies that are harmoniously constructed. The shapes are rounded; the outlines are not stretched. The body’s back, shoulders, and chest are enormous because of the superbly developed muscles. The back is broad and straight.

Limbs

The legs of the front and rear are parallel to one another. Average length, heavy muscles.

Features and color of the coat

The animal’s coat is short and falls close to its body. The hairs have a healthy sheen and are stiff to the touch. The undercoat gets thicker as winter draws near. The thickness of the hair can vary depending on where you live.

International standards support over sixty different color combinations. Generally speaking, purebred animals can be classified as tabby, solid, smoky, or spotted. Silver smoke is the color that’s most in demand.

Disqualifying defects

The most prevalent flaws found in purebred members of the breed are:

• Underdeveloped/weakly developed croup;
• In animals of silver color, the color of the iris is different from green;
• Neck of atypical structure;
• Closely set ears with pointed tips;
• Thin/thick tail with kinks.

Defects that disqualify:

• Diseases and/or pathologies of the development of the hearing organs;
• Bulging eyes;
• Fluffy and/or long wool;
• Peremponation of testicles;
• Obesity or exhaustion;
• Amputated claws.

Character

Kittens typically start looking for a new home when they are two months old. They don’t require breast milk; they just require their mother to feel at ease and at peace. Because of this, the new owner’s main responsibility is to assist the infant in overcoming the period of separation from the mother in a way that feels safe and least painful. At this age, the cubs are curious and lively, adjusting to their new surroundings fast.

Kittens and adults already American short-haired kittens are lively and outgoing, but they don’t require continuous human care. They are resourceful enough to keep themselves entertained.

Given that these animals have highly developed hunting instincts, it is best to provide your pet with as many toys as you can in order to prevent issues.

Animals are very intelligent and friendly toward kids. They are not sensitive or resentful like many other breeds. At two to four months old, you can start to assess the pet’s evolving personality. Are there any traits, such as aggression, timidity, or unsociability, that could be cause for concern? This is typically a result of inappropriate handling at a very young age or an indication that a disease is developing.

The pet starts to display signs of sexual desire after eight months. Whether the animal will be "used" for breeding must be decided at this point. If not, castrating or sterilizing the animal is the most sensible course of action.

Kindly take note! The pet will grow up loving and sociable if it had as many positive experiences as possible from interactions with people during its development and socialization.

Care and maintenance

Despite having short hair, breed members have an extremely thick undercoat. This allows pets to live outside throughout the spring, summer, and fall. This breed requires very little maintenance and care in general. Everything is restricted to good diet and basic hygiene practices.

Hygiene

The following grooming practices are necessary for the American Shorthair cat breed in order to preserve health and presentability:

• Eyes and ears should be wiped with a cotton pad soaked in a decoction of medicinal herbs or a special veterinary composition at intervals of 1-1.5 weeks. There should be no unpleasant-smelling purulent discharge. If something like this is detected, the pet should be immediately shown to a veterinarian.
• Claws are ground down naturally during games or scratching the scratching post. If necessary, they can be carefully trimmed with a claw cutter. This must be done very carefully so as not to damage the pet"s blood vessels.
• Teeth are brushed once a week with a silicone brush and a special non-foaming toothpaste. This helps prevent the formation of tartar and plaque.

Grooming

This breed’s representatives are tidy and capable of keeping their fur clean on their own. Water does not appeal to them. It is advised to bathe American cats no more than three to four times a year, and only when absolutely necessary. Water procedures should ideally be performed in a warm, draft-free room.

It is sufficient to use a glove with silicone growths or a specialized rubber brush to comb the pet once a week. It is essential to comb the pet every day while it is shedding.

Nutrition

A pet in good health always has a voracious appetite and happily devours both commercial and homemade food. The only guideline is that you should stick to just one of these essentially distinct compositions; mixing them is not advised.

If industrial compositions are preferred, then the products should fall into the super-premium or premium category. Their compositions are highly concentrated in animal proteins and are optimally balanced.

Lean meat that is fresh should be the mainstay of the diet if the food is natural.

What the diet must include is also:

• fermented milk products;
• porridges;
• lean sea fish;
• eggs;
• vegetables;
• meat by-products

Crucial! Breed representatives are not allowed to give pickles, pork, or sweets.

Health and diseases

It was previously mentioned that American women can live 15–18 years if they are kept in proper conditions. They are naturally very healthy and do not have a tendency to develop genetic illnesses.

Nonetheless, there is a tendency for these illnesses to arise:

• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy;
• chronic degenerative keratitis;
• hip dysplasia;
• polycystic kidney disease.

Each owner should visit the veterinarian on a regular basis, get regular vaccinations and dewormings, and prevent potential diseases from developing.

How to choose an American Shorthair kitten?

It is advisable to purchase a purebred American Shorthair cat from reputable specialty nurseries. Examine all the paperwork, measurements, and requirements related to animal ownership thoroughly before entering into any agreements. You can begin selecting a kitten if the documents’ veracity and purity are undeniable.

An American Shorthair kitten in good health has glossy hair, spotless eyes, ears, and skin, as well as a soft stomach and a voracious appetite. It’s also crucial that the animal doesn’t act aggressively or fearfully toward people.

How much does an American Shorthair cat cost?

A kitten from a reputable and trustworthy cattery will cost you between 10,000 and 15,000 rubles. Should you have a preference for kittens in the "show" category, the cost may exceed 30,000 rubles.

In addition to being lovely pets, American Shorthair cats can grow up to be true family members.

Feature	Description
Temperament	The American Shorthair is known for its calm, gentle, and friendly nature, making it great for families and other pets.
Health	This breed is generally healthy with a long lifespan, thanks to its robust genes and natural resistance to common ailments.
Maintenance	Low grooming needs due to its short coat, but regular brushing helps maintain a sleek and shiny appearance.
Activity level	Playful yet not overly demanding, the American Shorthair enjoys interactive play but can also relax and lounge comfortably.
Size	This breed is medium to large, with a well-muscled, strong body, perfect for hunting and playing.

The American Shorthair cat embodies the ideal fusion of grace, power, and easygoing disposition. This breed is a great companion for seniors, single people, and families due to its adaptability and peaceful disposition.

These cats require little maintenance and are generally easy to take care of because of their good health. Both a busy household and a more tranquil one can benefit from their affectionate yet independent nature.

The American Shorthair cat is a fantastic option for anyone searching for a low-maintenance, amiable, and healthy pet to add some color to their life because of their playful yet gentle temperament.

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