American Shorthair
uh-MAIR-ih-kun SHORT-hair
Easygoing, Affectionate, Adaptable, Good-natured. Origin: United States (descended from European working cats on ships).
An adult American Shorthair weighs 11-15 lbs (male) or 8-12 lbs (female), needs 180-410 calories daily, and lives 15-20 yrs. The breed's primary health watch is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. All numbers below come from breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult American Shorthair needs 180 to 410 calories per day. An average male (13 lbs / 5.9 kg) needs around 320 kcal; a female (10 lbs / 4.5 kg) roughly 260 kcal.
Estimate for a typical adult American Shorthair. For kittens, seniors, or specific conditions, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
The American Shorthair benefits from centuries of natural selection as a working cat. Their broad gene pool produces generally robust health. The primary concern is weight management, as their calm, indoor temperament and efficient metabolism make obesity the most common health issue. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) appears in some lines. Life expectancy is 15 to 20 years, among the longest of any cat breed.
Exercise and activity
Moderate; enjoys play but isn't hyperactive. Interactive toys and climbing structures keep them engaged without demanding constant attention. A balanced mix of active play and quiet companionship suits most American Shorthair cats. They adapt to their owner's lifestyle but should not be entirely sedentary.
Care and traits
American Shorthair cats have a short, dense, hard-textured (classic silver tabby most recognized) coat. Origin: United States (descended from European working cats on ships).
The pedigreed version of cats that arrived on the Mayflower and other ships. Not the same as 'Domestic Shorthair'; American Shorthairs are a specific breed with consistent traits. One of the longest-lived cat breeds when well cared for.
The American Shorthair is well-suited for families with children. They are typically patient and tolerant, though all cat-child interactions should be supervised until children learn appropriate handling. Teaching children to respect the cat's space and body language prevents most problems.
The American Shorthair is the working cat of North America, descended from cats that arrived on ships with early settlers. They are sturdy, healthy, and adaptable. Their easy-going temperament makes them one of the most family-friendly breeds. They are good hunters who keep their mousing instincts but are equally content as indoor companions.
Tools for American Shorthair owners
Frequently asked questions
Daily calorie needs for a American Shorthair range from 180 to 410 kcal. An average individual at 13 lbs falls near the middle of that range. Two measured meals daily keeps most medium cats at a healthy weight. Avoid free-feeding unless your cat self-regulates well, which many do not. Use our calorie calculator with your cat's actual weight for a personalized number.
A male American Shorthair weighs 11-15 lbs (5.0–6.8 kg); females run smaller at 8-12 lbs (3.6–5.4 kg). Feel for ribs along the sides. They should be easy to find under a thin layer of flesh. View from above: a visible waist narrowing behind the ribs indicates healthy condition.
Veterinarians most frequently screen American Shorthair cats for hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. HCM causes the heart muscle to thicken, reducing its efficiency. Screening via echocardiogram can detect it before symptoms appear. Annual cardiac checks are recommended for breeds with known HCM prevalence. Other conditions to monitor include hip dysplasia. Not every American Shorthair will develop these conditions, but awareness and regular vet checkups make a real difference.
Moderate play needs that most owners can easily meet. One or two interactive play sessions of 10-15 minutes daily, combined with access to a cat tree and window perch, keeps this breed content. They enjoy play but are equally happy relaxing. Every cat, regardless of breed, benefits from some daily play and enrichment. Even five minutes of chasing a wand toy is better than nothing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on TICA/CFA standards and veterinary sources. Individual cats vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your cat. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026