What is the difference between a American Shorthair and a Pixie-Bob?

The American Shorthair is 8–12 lbs sized while the Pixie-Bob is 8–17 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–12 lbs vs 8–17 lbs), lifespan (15–20 years vs 13–15 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, American Shorthair or Pixie-Bob?

American Shorthair is generally good with kids. Pixie-Bob is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, American Shorthair or Pixie-Bob?

The American Shorthair has a lifespan of 15–20 years while the Pixie-Bob has a lifespan of 13–15 years.

American Shorthair vs Pixie-Bob — Breed Comparison

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.

About the Pixie-Bob

The Pixie-Bob was developed in the Pacific Northwest of the United States beginning in 1985, bred to resemble the North American coastal bobcat. This large, muscular cat weighs 8–17 pounds — with males often tipping the scales on the higher end — and features a broad, pear-shaped head, hooded eyes, and a naturally short or bobbed tail ranging from two to six inches. Their coat is brown spotted tabby, either short or longhaired, with heavy ticking and a woolly texture.

Temperament & Personality

Pixie-Bobs are known for their devoted, dog-like personalities — they follow their owners everywhere, learn to walk on a leash, and some will even play fetch. Despite their wild appearance, they are gentle and patient, making them excellent family cats. They tend to chirp and chatter rather than meow and are generally quieter than many breeds.

Pros

Wild, bobcat-like appearance with a gentle, domestic temperament
Dog-like loyalty — follows owners, learns commands, walks on a leash
Polydactylism is common and accepted in the breed, adding to their unique charm
Calm and patient with children and other household pets

Cons

Large size and high food requirements increase ownership costs
Some lines carry hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) risk
Can be territorial with unfamiliar cats introduced into the home
Thick coat — especially the longhaired variety — sheds heavily and needs regular brushing

Looking for a gentle giant with a wild side? Find Pixie-Bob cats ready for adoption on Puplister and bring home your own little bobcat.

American Shorthair vs Pixie-Bob