All About American Shorthair Cats!
American Shorthair cats are known for their powerful bodies and strong hunting instinct. Both male and female American Shorthair cats have muscular legs and a densely thick coat. While female and male American Shorthairs are generally quite similar, there can be a few subtle physical and personality differences.
American Shorthair cats are gentle, moderately playful and independent but sweet-natured. This breed is considered to be hearty and generally low-maintenance. Adult males of this breed usually weigh between 7-12 pounds, while the females weigh slightly less (around 6-11 pounds). Despite their naturally athletic bodies, indoor-only American Shorthair cats require you to keep an eye on their diet and activity to avoid the adverse health effects of too sedentary a home life.
American Shorthairs are thought to have originally traveled to America from Europe aboard the ships with Christopher Columbus and his followers. Their size and strength was one of the reasons they were brought along.
It was their job to protect the precious cargo and food from rats and other varmints. They were the original working breed in this country. Today’s American Shorthair cats hail from a long line of healthy and rugged felines.