American Shorthair Cat: Complete Guide, Training, Care, Choosing Tips, Pros & Cons, and Price
Introduction
The American Shorthair (ASH) is one of the most beloved cat breeds in the United States, known for its easygoing nature, sturdy build, and classic good looks. Originally bred for hunting rodents, today’s American Shorthair is a gentle, playful companion perfect for families, singles, and seniors alike.
In this complete guide, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about the American Shorthair — including its history, physical traits, personality, training tips, care needs, how to choose the right kitten, pros and cons, and what you can expect to pay.
About the American Shorthair
History
The American Shorthair’s ancestors arrived in North America with early European settlers, particularly aboard ships like the Mayflower. These cats were valued for their excellent hunting skills, keeping ships and settlements free of rats and mice. Over time, these working cats evolved into a distinct breed.
In 1906, the breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), initially called the “Domestic Shorthair.” The name was changed to “American Shorthair” in 1966 to reflect its purebred status and distinguish it from random domestic cats.
Physical Characteristics
- Size: Medium to large; males weigh 11–15 pounds (5–7 kg), females slightly less.
- Build: Muscular, sturdy, well-balanced.
- Coat: Short, dense, resilient coat; low maintenance.
- Colors: Over 80 recognized color patterns, including silver tabby (the most famous), black, white, blue, red, cream, and calico.
- Eyes: Wide-set, large, and expressive; often gold, green, or blue depending on coat color.
- Lifespan: 15–20 years with proper care.
Personality and Behavior Traits
- Temperament: Calm, affectionate but not overly demanding.
- Sociability: Good with children, other cats, and even cat-friendly dogs.
- Independence: Enjoys human company but fine being alone during the day.
- Intelligence: Smart, observant, and occasionally mischievous.
- Energy Level: Moderate; enjoys playtime but also loves lounging.
- Vocalization: Generally quiet and soft-spoken.
Fun Fact: American Shorthairs retain some of their hunting instincts — you might catch them chasing toys or “stalking” objects around the house!
How to Train an American Shorthair
Thanks to their intelligence and cooperative nature, American Shorthairs are relatively easy to train.
Training Tips
- Start Early: Begin training when the cat is a kitten (8–12 weeks old).
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward with treats, praise, or playtime.
- Teach Basic Commands: Train your cat to come when called, sit, or walk on a leash.
- Litter Training: Usually instinctive, but keep the litter box clean and accessible.
- Discourage Bad Behavior: Gently redirect scratching or biting onto appropriate toys.
- Puzzle Toys: Provide brain-stimulating activities to prevent boredom.
Training Tools
- Clicker (for clicker training)
- Treats for reward-based motivation
- Feather wands or laser pointers for interactive play
Note: Training sessions should be short (5–10 minutes) and always end on a positive note.
How to Care for an American Shorthair
American Shorthairs are relatively low-maintenance, but regular care ensures they stay healthy and happy.
Grooming
- Brushing: Once a week with a soft brush to remove loose hair and reduce shedding.
- Bathing: Rarely needed unless the cat gets very dirty.
- Nail Trimming: Every 2–3 weeks.
- Dental Care: Brush teeth several times a week or provide dental treats.
- Ear Cleaning: Check ears weekly for dirt or wax buildup.
Diet and Nutrition
- High-Quality Food: Choose premium cat food rich in protein and low in fillers.
- Portion Control: Avoid overfeeding; ASHs can gain weight easily.
- Fresh Water: Always provide clean water; consider a water fountain.
Health Concerns
While generally healthy, American Shorthairs can be prone to:
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM — a heart condition)
- Obesity (due to love of food and lounging)
- Dental issues
Regular veterinary check-ups (at least once a year) are essential to catch health problems early.
How to Choose a Good American Shorthair Kitten
Choosing the right kitten is an important decision.
Steps to Follow
- Find a Reputable Breeder: Ensure they are registered with organizations like CFA or TICA and provide health guarantees.
- Visit in Person: Observe the environment; kittens should be raised indoors, be socialized, and look healthy.
- Check Parent Cats: Meeting the kitten’s parents can give you an idea of temperament and appearance.
- Health Screening: Ask for documentation of vaccinations, deworming, and health tests (especially for HCM).
- Choose Based on Personality: Select a kitten that is curious, playful, and friendly.
- Age to Bring Home: At least 12–14 weeks old for proper development and socialization.
Warning: Avoid backyard breeders or pet stores that cannot provide health certifications.
Pros and Cons of American Shorthair Cats
Pros
✅ Very easygoing and adaptable
✅ Low-maintenance grooming
✅ Quiet and polite temperament
✅ Excellent with kids and other pets
✅ Long lifespan (15–20 years)
Cons
❌ Can gain weight if overfed
❌ May seem reserved compared to clingy breeds
❌ Not extremely “lap-cat” affectionate (but still loving)
❌ Needs stimulation to prevent boredom
How Much Does an American Shorthair Cost?
| Type | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Pet Quality Kitten | $500 – $800 |
| Show Quality Kitten | $800 – $1,500+ |
| Rescue/Adoption | $50 – $200 |
Prices vary based on:
- Pedigree and bloodlines
- Breeder reputation
- Kitten quality (pet vs show)
- Geographic location
- Vaccination and health screening included
Additional Costs: Don’t forget ongoing expenses like:
- Food and supplies ($30–$50/month)
- Annual vet care ($100–$300/year)
- Emergency vet bills
- Toys, scratchers, litter, and pet insurance
Conclusion: Is the American Shorthair Right for You?
The American Shorthair is an ideal choice for families, singles, and seniors looking for a cat that is independent but affectionate, playful but calm, and low-maintenance yet beautiful. They blend seamlessly into almost any household with their easygoing attitude and charming personalities.
If you want a hardy, loving companion that will bring joy, playfulness, and calm into your home for many years, the American Shorthair could be your perfect match.
