Domestic Shorthair — breed guide
The classic shelter cat: hardy, low-fuss and endlessly varied.
At a glance
- Group
- shorthair
- Size
- Small
- Weight
- 3.5–6 kg (8–13 lb)
- Life span
- 13–17 years
- Coat
- Short coat in every colour and pattern there is
Living with a Domestic Shorthair
- Moderate energy — a proper walk every day.
- Almost no grooming.
- 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.
- Average cold tolerance.
Temperament
Adaptable · Even-tempered · Playful
Health to watch
- Obesity
- Dental disease
Owner-logged information shared via Leash Life is not veterinary advice; ask your vet about screening for these.
Did you know
The "moggie" is not a breed at all — which is exactly why it has the widest gene pool and some of the fewest inherited problems.
Questions people ask
Is a Domestic Shorthair good with kids?
Generally yes. Domestic Shorthairs are usually good with children when raised with them and given their own quiet space.
Is a Domestic Shorthair good with other cats?
Usually yes. Domestic Shorthairs generally settle well with another cat, given a proper introduction and their own food, bed and tray.
How much exercise does a Domestic Shorthair need?
A real walk every day, around 30–60 minutes.
Can a Domestic Shorthair handle hot weather?
About average — use normal hot-day sense.
Leash Life keeps a Domestic 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.