How long do American Shorthair cats live?

An indoor American Shorthair typically lives about 15–20 years. Weight control, regular check-ups and indoor living all make a difference.

How much does an adult American Shorthair weigh?

A fully grown American Shorthair usually weighs 3.5–7 kg. Males tend to be larger than females, and a body shape where the ribs can be felt lightly matters more than the number.

Do American Shorthair cats shed a lot?

Shedding is moderate. Thick, firm short coat. The silver classic tabby is the best known pattern. Brushing once or twice a week is enough. They enjoy food and slow down with age, so watch for weight changes from middle age on.

Short-haired breeds

American Shorthair: personality, life span and weight

The American Shorthair is a short-haired breed from the United States, known for its swirled classic tabby pattern. It is even-tempered and healthy and does well in first-time cat homes.

Gentle
Even-tempered
Good with families

American Shorthair at a glance

Adult weight: 3.5–7 kg
Life span: 15–20 years
Shedding: moderate
Activity: moderate
Origin: United States
Coat: Thick, firm short coat. The silver classic tabby is the best known pattern

American Shorthair personality

A balanced cat that plays a fair amount and rests a fair amount. It gets on with children and other pets and is fine alone for a while. The hunting instinct is still there, so wand toys are a favourite.

Coat care and daily care

Brushing once or twice a week is enough. They enjoy food and slow down with age, so watch for weight changes from middle age on.

Health problems American Shorthair keepers should know

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)Reported in some lines. See a vet if the cat pants or tires easily.
ObesityThey like their food, so measured meals help.

These are problems reported relatively often in the breed. It does not mean every cat will have them. If a symptom worries you, see a vet.

Real American Shorthair photos from cat keepers

Photo tip The swirl on the flank is the highlight. A photo from above while the cat lies on its side shows the whole pattern.

There are no public records yet. Your cat could be the first.

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American Shorthair questions and answers

How long do American Shorthair cats live?: An indoor American Shorthair typically lives about 15–20 years. Weight control, regular check-ups and indoor living all make a difference.
How much does an adult American Shorthair weigh?: A fully grown American Shorthair usually weighs 3.5–7 kg. Males tend to be larger than females, and a body shape where the ribs can be felt lightly matters more than the number.
Do American Shorthair cats shed a lot?: Shedding is moderate. Thick, firm short coat. The silver classic tabby is the best known pattern. Brushing once or twice a week is enough. They enjoy food and slow down with age, so watch for weight changes from middle age on.
What is the American Shorthair personality like?: A balanced cat that plays a fair amount and rests a fair amount. It gets on with children and other pets and is fine alone for a while. The hunting instinct is still there, so wand toys are a favourite.

Cat age calculatorConvert your American Shorthair's age to human years.Cat food calculatorSee a daily feeding reference for the 3.5–7 kg weight range.