This beloved cat breed is often described as robust and sturdy, with a curious nature, and is known for its excellent hunting skills.
American Shorthair cats also have a thoughtful and loving expression, which makes them an extremely popular choice for pet owners.
If you are the proud owner of an American Shorthair cat, here are five interesting facts you should know:
Origins
American Shorthair cats originally descended from Europe and were believed to have traveled over in the Mayflower to be used as pest control for the ships.
They were descents of the British Shorthair, a breed that has a well standing history of removing rodents from the population during crucial times in history including the Black Plague.
Varieties
There are 80 different recognized varieties of American Shorthair cats.
Some of the most popular varieties are solid, tabby, calico and tortoiseshell.
Distinctive features
American Shorthair cats are known for their short pointed ears, their round broad head, and their muscular, compact body.
As their own name suggests, another characteristic of these cats is their short hair, which is easily maintained without too much grooming.
Honors
In 1906, the American Shorthair was included in the Cat Fanciers Association registry.
Several decades later, in 1965, the American Shorthair received its highest accolade after one of its members, a silver coated male tabby named Shawnee Trademark, was declared Best Cat of the Year (COTY) by the CFA.
Size & life expectancy
American Shorthair cats often continue growing until they are 3 or 4 years old. Males are usually larger than females, averaging 11 to 15 pounds, while females may weigh 6 to 12 pounds.
Their life expectantly ranges between 12 and 20 years.