Cream Cameo Tabby American Shorthair 6 Week Old Kitten
The American Shorthair is truly America’s cat. The ancestors of today’s American Shorthair or ASH came to this country with early settlers from Europe. These working cats flourished here along with their owners and eventually established themselves as North America’s native short haired cat.
Until 1966 the ASH was called the Domestic Shorthair.The name of the breed was changed to reflect its all American lineage as well as to distinguish it from cats found in barns, streets and just roaming neighborhoods. Today a random cat may resemble the purebred ASH just as they may resemble a purebred Siamese, Maine Coon or any other breed. The difference between purebred and non purebred is the consistency of kittens with the same physical attributes and temperament.
The ASH is a low maintenance cat that is highly intelligent. Easy going and affectionate, these cats are gentle companions for both children and adults. They are a full fledged member of the family circle. Known for their robust good health and longevity, they have a quiet disposition and are friendly with other pets as well as children. Another plus of the breed is that they are very good looking.
The fully grown male ASH at 11 to 15 pounds is noticeably larger than the 8 to 12 pound adult female of the breed. They reach their full growth at 3 to 4 years of age. With normal vet care and a quality diet plus the owner’s love this cat will live for 15 to 20 years.
There are more than 80 recognized coat colors for the ASH with probably the best known being the silver tabby. You most likely have seen these cats in print and television advertising. They have coal black markings set on a sterling silver background. To keep this thick coat in good condition they should be brushed two to three times a week. Bathing is optional but if you do bathe the cat do not do it over once every six weeks as it will dry out their skin. Like most short haired breeds the ASH keeps its coat in good condition with just a little help from its humans.
This is a strong, powerful, agile and substantial cat. They purr a LOT and they freely spread their love around. The ASH face is full cheeked with eyes that are round at the top and almond shaped at the bottom. Their overall expression is sweet and open. They typically have a pouch of skin under their belly and their skin is slightly loose. Both of these things provide protection.
The ASH doe not impose themselves or demand attention and they are not always in your lap. I like to think of them as a next cushion cat. They always seem to be seated on the next cushion of the sofa or on the back of their owners chair. If that isn’t available they will sleep peacefully by their humans side on the floor. They seem to always want just to be near. Because they are so intelligent they can be taught to come when called, they like to play fetch and they are easily taught to stay off counter tops as well as to use their scratching post.
A funny thing about this breed is their tiny little voice. They are not very vocal and when they do talk it is mostly in sweet little chirps and squeaks. They often open their mouths to speak and no sound comes out! The silent meow is a signature characteristic of the breed.
The only drawback to this breed, if you wish to consider it as such is that they do not like to be carried too far or too frequently. If they are carried too far they will struggle. It is best if they struggle to put them on the floor to keep both cat and the person carrying them safe.
From the description, there is no wonder that the American Shorthair consistently ranks among the ten most popular purebred
cats in the country. If you wish to find a rescue for American Shorthair Cats as well as other pure bred cats go here. Good luck and I really hope you can make one of these wonderful cats your very own.
