American Shorthair

Care Level: Low (great for first-time owners) Temperament: Easygoing, adaptable, friendly Diet: Balanced diet (watch for weight gain) Lifespan: 15–20 years Weight: 10–15 lbs (4.5–6.8 kg) – Males larger Distinct Features: Athletic build, round face, 80+ color/pattern options What We Love About This Breed: ➤ Living history – Descended from 17th-century European working cats ➤ Classic "tabby" look – Silver tabby is most iconic (think "Whiskas cat") ➤ Self-sufficient – Enjoys affection but won’t demand constant attention ➤ Natural mousers – Retains strong hunting instincts The American Shorthair is the all-American family cat, bred for health and temperament over centuries. Unlike highly engineered breeds, their medium-density coat requires only: ✓ Weekly brushing (more during seasonal sheds) ✓ Occasional nail trims ✓ Dental care (prone to gingivitis) Personality Highlights: ✓ Gets along with kids/dogs ✓ Adapts to apartments or houses ✓ Playful but not destructive Health Notes: Generally robust – some lines prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) Ideal For: Busy households wanting a low-maintenance, long-lived companion.