November 29, 2018 |5 min read
The Always Adaptable American Shorthair Cat
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If there’s ever been an iconic cat, it’s the American Shorthair. Chances are you or someone you know has a Shorthair, and for good reason, it’s one of the most popular cat breeds in America! Famous for its friendly and relaxed attitude, this is a cat that just does it all. Fine with being alone and comfortable in social settings, the Shorthair is playful and loves to frolic with friends.
Playful Personality
American Shorthair cats are adaptable cats that mesh well with a wide range of personality types. Looking for a companion that loves to play? The American shorthair never says no to games with family members or strangers. Even better, these felines are also comfortable being alone for long periods of time.
It’s best to cultivate your Shorthair’s personality from a young age. Introducing your new cat to humans in a relaxed, familiar environment is a good approach. If you have other pets, keep an eye on them while they figure out who your friend is. American Shorthairs love to play, so feel free to use toys and treats!
Fans of sleeping in the sun, American Shorthairs are more than happy to spend quality time relaxing in a warm place. Don’t worry if your cat seeks out some solace—these animals don’t need constant attention.
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Looks and Aesthetics
The American Shorthair weighs between six and fifteen pounds. Most of that is muscle! American Shorthairs are strong animals, after all: a true working cat breed that excels at vigorous exercise. Shorthairs come in almost every color known to man, with over 80 colors and patterns.
Care and Health
Caring for your American Shorthair’s coat is important—stick to daily brushing. Your cat will take care of the rest. You can expect the coat to thicken during the winter months and thin back out when summer arrives. Trimming nails should be part of a regular bathing regimen as well.
American Shorthairs are notoriously resilient companions. However, there are a few medical problems common to cats that may crop up. For example, a malformation of the hip joint, or hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia can range from a minor annoyance to debilitating pain. Causes are genetic, so taking your cat in for a check-up regularly is a good idea, and especially if your friend shows signs of pain when moving.
It’s a good idea to have your veterinarian keep an eye out for early onset enlargement of the heart muscle (hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM). HCM is the result of genetic factors (not nutrition!), so keep an eye out for any breeder that tells you otherwise.
Keeping your kitty’s smile spotless is not the easiest task in the world, but it’s important for maintaining dental health. Start a dental hygiene program from a young age—use pet-specific feline toothbrushes and paste and get your cat used to the process. It’s not unusual for cats to dislike brushing at first, but slowly working your way towards regular brushing is an excellent idea.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an adaptable and versatile feline companion, the American Shorthair cat is an excellent choice. It’s the most popular cat in America for good reason—happy alone or with friends, the American Shorthair is independent and takes minimal care. Beautiful, playful, and always happy to see you, this is a breed that simply does not disappoint!
What are your thoughts on American Shorthairs? Do you have one of these loving cats in your home? Sound off in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!
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