If you are looking for a kitty that will be a gentle companion or a full-fledged family member, look no further than the American Shorthair cat.
There are many reasons why American Shorthairs are the beloved breed. With a long history dating back to the founding of the United States, it is understandable why they are rooted in the hearts of Americans everywhere. Despite their popularity, most people only know a few things about this breed. These are the nine fascinating facts about American shorthair Cats.
1. They are one of the most popular cat breeds
Let us start with the popularity of this breed. According to The Cat Fancier’s Association, the American Shorthairs were ranked as the 8th most popular cat breed in 2021. This breed has not lost any of its charms in the few centuries it has been around.
American Shorthairs have consistently ranked in the world’s top 10 popular Cat breeds in recent years. So, if you find yourself in love with this breed, you are not alone; many people do.
In 1995, American Shorthair won the CFA’s Best in Show, beating more than 1,300 other cats. American Shorthair has always made its mark nationally and internationally at cat shows.
2. They come in many different colors and pattern combinations
The American Shorthair is one of the multicolored cat breeds. There are more than 80 known combinations of American Shorthair coats. Each cat’s fur is unique in subtle patterns but includes combinations of shades of brown, gray, black, white, and more.
One of the most common and popular is the silver tabby. So, if color is the quality you value in cats, the American Shorthair is not one of the breeds that limit your options.
3. American Shorthairs are very intelligent
American Shorthairs are intelligent cat breeds. They are very observant of their surroundings, which is one of the things that make them such good hunters. Because of this, it is important to keep them actively engaged for their general well-being and happiness.
Treats and interactive toys are a great way to keep their minds busy. They make excellent companions and can be easily trained because of their intelligence.
American Shorthairs are friendly, adaptable, energetic, versatile, and intelligent. It is not surprising that they have won awards at cat competitions worldwide.
4. American Shorthairs were formerly known as Domestic Shorthairs
The American Shorthair is a cat breed that originated from European cats. The early immigrants brought to North America to guard valuable goods against rodents and rats. In 1966, the Cat name was changed from Domestic Shorthair to American Shorthair to emphasize its origin and distinguish it from stray street cats.
American shorthairs are different from Domestic shorthairs. They may have similar appearances, and their names are often used interchangeably, but the American Shorthairs are purebred cats. Domestic Shorthairs often have an untraceable ancestry, which makes them the mutts of the cat world.
5. American shorthair cats came on the Mayflower
The American Shorthair is a mixed breed of the feline world. It is an extraordinary mix of cats whose lineage goes back a long time. The American Shorthair is believed to have arrived in America on the Mayflower.
They are known as hard-working rodent hunters, so they were transported on ships, like the Mayflower, on their way from Europe to America. After landing in the Western Hemisphere, they became helpful farm cats that helped keep barns and pantries free of rats and mice.
6. American shorthairs are self-sufficient and easygoing
The American Shorthair is self-sufficient in grooming and requires little maintenance because of its short coat. Compared to Siamese and Abyssinian cats, American shorthairs don’t need much attention to be happy. For this reason, they are an excellent choice for a single person that works all day.
They are calm, relaxed, and gentle with children. They also tend to be well-behaved and quiet. If you own an American Shorthair, you must schedule regular playtime to provide mental and physical exercise.
7. American shorthair cats lived in the White House
Did you know that the American Shorthair cats have even gone presidential? While in the White House, President Bush and his family owned a black American shorthair cat named India.
The adorable cat was named after the former Texas Rangers baseball player Ruben Sierra, whose nickname was “El Indio. After spending eight years in the White House with the Bush family, India died in January 2009 at 18.
8. American Shorthairs have a gentle nature
American shorthairs are known to value their independence. They are known to be kind, gentle, easygoing, and friendly with dogs and other pets, making them the perfect family companions.
They enjoy the peace and often do not like being picked up. They enjoy living with their guardians in a relationship of mutual respect. They can be very gentle and valuable companions.
Due to their generally gentle and mature nature, American Shorthairs often make excellent companions for children and other pets, including dogs and cats.
9. American Shorthairs were used for pest control
This breed served as early pest control, which was very helpful to colonial-era settlers and store owners. American Shorthairs make good hunters due to their active nature and small physique.
They were commonly bred at first to eliminate invasive vermin like rats and mice. They were prevalent among the newcomers to North America. Their rat-catching skills were highly valued, as rats could quickly spread diseases that were likely to be deadly at the time.
They may have helped the passengers of the Mayflower by keeping the ship free of any possible disease spread by rats.
Conclusion
As you can see, the American Shorthair is a versatile and affectionate cat with a fascinating history. It is understandable why people worldwide consider them loyal and beloved companions.
The American Shorthair cat is one of the most famous cats around. With their unique origins, easygoing temperament, and remarkable intellect, these felines continue to impress time and time again. These nine exciting facts are just the beginning of all the beautiful things we could say about the American Shorthair cats.
