American Shorthair American Shorthair

American Shorthair

Easygoing Calm Affectionate Playful

About the American Shorthair

The American Shorthair descends from European cats brought to North America on ships like the Mayflower, where they earned their keep as skilled mousers. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–15 pounds and boasts a powerful, well-proportioned build with a broad chest. Their dense, short coat comes in over 80 recognized colors and patterns, with the classic silver tabby being the most iconic.

Temperament & Personality

American Shorthairs are easygoing, adaptable cats that strike a perfect balance between playful and laid-back. They are patient and gentle with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to entertain themselves when the family is busy. Their calm, even temperament and low-maintenance nature have made them one of America's most popular breeds for decades.

Pros

  • Exceptionally healthy breed with a lifespan of 15–20 years
  • Low-maintenance coat that rarely mats or tangles
  • Independent enough to handle owners' work schedules without anxiety
  • Natural mouser — helps keep the home pest-free

Cons

  • Prone to obesity if diet and exercise are not carefully managed
  • Can be reserved with strangers and may take time to warm up
  • Not as interactive or trainable as more active breeds
  • Seasonal shedding can be heavy despite the short coat

Ready to welcome an American Shorthair into your home? Browse available cats for adoption on Puplister.

American Shorthair Quick Facts

Size
8–12 lbs
Lifespan
15–20 years
Exercise
Moderate
Grooming
Low
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes

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Available American Shorthairs

Graison
Adult

American Shorthair

For The Love Of Cats Rescue And Adoption · Walled Lake, MI
Lucifer
Young

American Shorthair

Dallas Animal Services · Dallas, TX
Bobbi Jean
Adult

American Shorthair

The Cat House On The Kings · Parlier, CA
Stella Rose
Baby

American Shorthair / Mixed

Trenton Cats Rescue · Trenton, NJ
Tinker
Young
Tinker
S

American Shorthair

The Cat House On The Kings · Parlier, CA
Mercy & Roxy
Young

American Shorthair

Cat's Cradle Rescue · Hillsboro, OR
Temu Tim
Young

American Shorthair

The Cat House On The Kings · Parlier, CA
Emerson
Baby

American Shorthair

Hancock County Humane Society · Greenfield, IN
Raquel
Young
Raquel
M

American Shorthair

Trenton Cats Rescue · Trenton, NJ
Tee
Young
Tee
S

American Shorthair

Bingo's Foundation · Penndel, PA
Furby & Emmett
Baby

American Shorthair

Marshmallow Foundation · Detroit Lakes, MN
Dora
Adult
Dora
S

American Shorthair

Community Cat Rescue · Palo Alto, CA

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key traits of a American Shorthair?
The American Shorthair is known for being easygoing, calm, affectionate and playful.
How many American Shorthairs are available for adoption?
There are currently 187 American Shorthairs available for adoption on Puplister. Browse the listings above to find your perfect match.
How do I adopt a American Shorthair from Puplister?
To adopt a American Shorthair, browse the available listings on this page, click on a pet you're interested in, and contact the shelter directly through their profile page.