The American Shorthair is an old and distinguished breed that dates back to 16th century Europe. Transported to North America via the early settlers, these sturdy felines are sometimes referred to as “Mayflower cat.” Records from that very ship indicate that several of these cats were aboard to hunt for and destroy rats. For centuries, these “working cats” flourished despite extreme and very harsh temperatures and conditions. Their pioneer owners highly valued these hearty and robust felines who kept the vermin population at bay and provided companionship with their loving natures and sweet ways. They were so prized that at the Second Annual Cat Show in Madison Square Garden in 1896, one brown American Shorthair tabby was offered for sale for 2,500!
The early twentieth century saw the importation of foreign breeds to the United States (Longhairs and Siamese). These cats were interbred with the native American Shorthair and produced kittens with varied coat lengths, body styles, color and personalities. Selective breeding soon occurred in order to preserve the breed’s conformation, adorable face and sweet disposition as well as standardizing the patterns and colors characteristic of the breed as we know it today.
The American Shorthair became one of the first five breeds recognized by the Cat Fancier’s Association in 1906. It’s original name was the “Domestic Shorthair,” but in 1966 it was renamed to better represent its “all American” character and to differentiate it from other short hair breeds. A non-predigreed shorthaired cat (domestic shorthair) might resemble this breed, but the difference is that a pedigreed cat can consistently produce kittens with the same conformation, temperament and coat quality and a random-bred cat cannot.
These cats can weigh as much as 15 pounds when fully grown. The coats come in a wide variety of patterns and colors, the most common being silver tabby with vivid black markings. They are calm and friendly and make wonderful pets in homes with children, other cats and dogs. They love exercise and outdoor activity centered around the quest for mice.
Do YOU own such a cat? Please share your experiences.
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