American Shorthair is a popular breed of domestic cat known for its affectionate nature, easygoing personality, and exceptional hunting skills. This breed has been around for hundreds of years and has become one of the most beloved cat breeds in the United States. But what are the two breeds that make up the American Shorthair? In this article, we will explore the history and lineage of the American Shorthair.
The Origins of the American Shorthair
The American Shorthair breed was first developed in America during the 19th century. These cats were initially bred to help control the rodent population on farms and other rural areas. Farmers valued them for their hunting skills and ability to catch mice and other small pests.
Over time, the American Shorthair became a popular pet among families and began to develop into a distinct breed. In the early 1900s, breeders began to selectively breed American Shorthairs for specific traits, such as coat color and pattern, size, and temperament.
The Breeds That Make Up the American Shorthair
The American Shorthair is a mixed breed that developed over generations of selective breeding. However, two breeds played a significant role in shaping the American Shorthair we know today: British Shorthair and European Shorthair.
British Shorthair
The British Shorthair is one of the oldest cat breeds in the world, with a history that dates back to ancient Rome. These cats were originally bred to hunt vermin on ships and in warehouses. Over time, they became popular pets among British royalty and wealthy families.
The British Shorthair has a distinctive round face, muscular build, and short, thick coat. They come in a variety of colors and patterns, including blue, black, and cream. The British Shorthair’s calm, laid-back personality and affectionate nature made it an ideal breed for families.
European Shorthair
The European Shorthair is a breed that originated in Europe. This breed of cat has a long history of being used for hunting rodents, and over time, it became a popular pet among families.
The European Shorthair has a muscular build, short fur, and comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. They are known for their intelligence, playfulness, and affectionate nature. European Shorthairs were imported to America in the late 1800s and played a significant role in the development of the American Shorthair breed.
The American Shorthair Today
Today, the American Shorthair is one of the most popular cat breeds in America. These cats are known for their gentle temperament, intelligence, and playful nature. They are also highly adaptable and do well in a variety of environments, from apartments to large homes.
The American Shorthair comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including solid colors such as black, white, and gray, and tabby patterns like classic tabby, mackerel tabby, and spotted tabby. Their coat is dense and short, which makes grooming easy.
American Shorthair Cat Personality
This breed is known for being an excellent companion cat with a genial, outgoing personality. They are not excessively needy like some cats and can be a bit more standoffish if you’re looking for a cat that is always on you and demanding cuddles. They have a laid back personality that makes them a good fit for an active home that might stress out more sensitive cats. They are also known for adapting well to just about any type of person and can live happily with children, other cats and other pets.
American Shorthair Cats and Handling
The one caveat about living with children is the breed’s known dislike of being picked up or excessively handled, so they may not enjoy living with toddlers who want a cat they can carry around. These cats tend to prefer hanging out with people on their own terms and it’s best to allow them to choose where they want to relax, whether it’s on your lap or just nearby.
American Shorthair Cats Love Playing
American Shorthairs are one breed that will definitely enjoy playing with toys like fishing wands and small “batting” toys as it will stimulate their hunting instincts. Play is important for these cats as well to keep their weight healthy and they’re a good candidate for interactive toys they can use while they’re home alone during the workday hours.
Conclusion
The American Shorthair is a mixed breed that has become one of the most beloved cat breeds in America. While several breeds contributed to its development, the British Shorthair and European Shorthair played a significant role in shaping this breed’s characteristics. The American Shorthair’s friendly nature, playful personality, and adaptability make them an ideal pet for families and individuals alike.
