Some live long lives where the condition is managed. Once a cat has been diagnosed through genetic testing and echocardiography, the only option for treatment involves medications that control heart rate and attempt to alleviate lung congestion. Lethargy, rapid breathing, and loss of appetite are all indicators of the condition. The early signs are usually hard to spot as cats are adept at hiding illnesses. This, in turn, makes it harder for the heart to pump oxygenated blood around the body. It causes the walls of the cat’s heart to thicken. HCM is a hereditary condition that reputable breeders usually screen for. Although not prevalent in the ASH, cases do occur. The most common heart condition found in cats is Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM). These include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), feline urinary tract disease (FLUTD), and hyperthyroidism. Although there are very few genetic concerns associated with the breed, owners should still pay attention to potential symptoms of some of the health conditions that are known to affect them. Throughout the centuries of working on farms and ships, the American Shorthair evolved to be a hardy and healthy cat. Today, the ASH is one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States. Until 1966, this pedigree breed was simply called the “Domestic Shorthair.” However, it was felt that renaming it would better represent its American origins, set it apart from other short-haired cats, and reinforce the notion that it is a pedigreed cat. Since then, the American Shorthair has been recognized by all of the North American cat registries. Two years later, the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA) recognized the felines as one of its first five founding breeds. One of its parents was a British Shorthair. In 1904, the first recorded selective breeding of an American Shorthair took place.

The American Shorthair was one of the cats that were exhibited.

The first cat show in the United States took place in Madison Square Garden in 1895. Its thick coat evolved to protect it from the elements. Throughout the years, the American Shorthair developed to become a hardy and healthy animal, used to living and working outside. An article published in 1634 discusses how domestic shorthairs saved crops from chipmunks and squirrels in New England. These “working cats” made their homes in the New World and adapted to the climate through breeding. American Shorthair cats come in a wide variety of colors and coat patterns, as listed below.Įarly European settlers to North America (such as the Mayflower pilgrims) traveled with cats on their ships to catch rats and mice. Their dense coats will usually thicken during the winter months. Maturity is reached at the age of 3 or 4 years of age. Females typically weigh between 6 and 12 pounds.

Adult males are considerably larger than females, weighing between 11 and 15 pounds. The breed standard laid out by the Cat Fanciers Association says that it is a true working cat and low maintenance. The American Shorthair is a large feline with a powerful and muscular build. What Does An American Shorthair Cat Look Like? Not known to be talkative, they communicate effectively using expressions. These felines are happy to be held and petted. To fulfill this feline’s hunting urges, invest in some interactive toys that it can chase and eventually catch.Īlthough the American Shorthair cat does not demand attention constantly, it does enjoy being in the company of humans. When allowed outdoors, they often bring back gifts of mice to their owners. Given their history as barn cats, the ASH has a strong prey drive and loves to hunt. However, when introducing any cat to a child, dog, or another feline, close supervision is recommended. Sociable and easy to train, they get along well with children and other animals. The American Shorthair cat (ASH) has a gentle and adaptable personality.

Short hair tabby cat personality