American Shorthair — breed guide
American Shorthair — temperament, grooming, exercise, heat tolerance and care, from the Leash Life breed guide.
At a glance
- Group
- shorthair
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 3–7 kg (7–15 lb)
- Life span
- 15–20 years
- Coat
- Short, thick, hard
Living with a American Shorthair
- Low energy — happy with gentle daily exercise.
- Light grooming — a brush now and then.
- Moderate shedding.
- Trainable with consistency.
- Quiet.
- Good with children.
- Gets along with other dogs.
- Generally content living with another cat.
- Suits apartment living, given its daily walks.
- A reasonable choice for a first-time owner.
- Average heat tolerance.
- Handles cold well.
Temperament
Easygoing · Adaptable · Placid · Sturdy
Health to watch
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Obesity
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Questions people ask
Is a American Shorthair good with kids?
Generally yes. American Shorthairs are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a American Shorthair good with other cats?
Usually yes. American Shorthairs generally settle well with another cat, given a proper introduction and their own food, bed and tray.
How much exercise does a American Shorthair need?
A gentle daily walk.
Can a American Shorthair handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a American Shorthair's day — walks, meals, meds, weight — in one shared feed for the whole household, and warns on the walk weather this breed can't take. Free to start.