The American Shorthair is one of the most popular breeds of cats. And is it any wonder? They’re typically cute and cuddly with an interesting history that traces all the way back to the Mayflower. So, what is an American Shorthair cat?

The direct descendants of European cats brought to the U.S. in the early 1600s, the American shorthair was originally prized for his uncanny ability to protect the grain harvests from rats and mice. People selected and bred these cats purely on their hunting ability. But, over time, their compact athletic bodies and boldly colored dense coats started to attract attention from pet-lovers. And, because these animals were also so intelligent and affectionate, they quickly caught hold with the American public, who began to invite them into their homes.

While they’re not recognized as being particularly agile, they are known for their strength, endurance, and balance. They often have a sturdy and muscular build. Maybe it was all that training from their colonial days that gave them such a solid physique.

From the name, you can guess that they have short hair. Their fur is also dense and thick, especially in the winter when it can help protect them from the cold. Although they have a cozy coat, remember our strategic partner The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) recommends that cats stay inside for safety reasons. For instance, keeping cats inside can protect them from catching contagious illnesses, contracting parasites, and getting hurt by other animals.

Unlike breeds such as the Siamese and the Abyssinian, American shorthairs don't need a lot of attention to be happy. Because of this, they are a great choice of cat for a single person who works all day. They are relaxed, calm, and gentle with children. Also, they tend to be quiet and well-behaved. If you own an American shorthair, you'll need to schedule regular playtime to provide mental and physical exercise.

For a cat breed that was originally developed only to hunt rats and mice, American shorthairs have an amazingly sweet and affectionate personality. They love to be around their family and are even fine being carried about by younger humans. American shorthair cats are known for being easygoing and docile, yet curious enough to make an entertaining companion.

These cats were originally kept for their rodent-catching abilities. And their modern counterparts love to catch wee creatures, too. If your American shorthair is allowed to roam outside, you will be delighted to discover frequent gifts of furry prey on your doorstep. An ambitious kitty may even find rodents lurking in your basement or garage.

A cat’s personality can be affected by many factors, including their environment, experiences, and age—not unlike us humans! But there is anecdotal evidence that depicts American Shorthairs are intelligent creatures who enjoy watching the world around them, for instance, watching little birdies hop and squirrels dash around outside from a perch on the windowsill.

They’re also said to be affectionate and enjoy spending time nestling and purring in the laps of their cat parents. In addition, they’re known for an independent streak and like to play and engage with their cat parents on their own terms.

Did you know that former President George Bush and his family owned a black American shorthair cat? The beloved pet was named "India" after former Texas Rangers baseball player Ruben Sierra, whose nickname was "El Indio." After spending eight years in the White House with the Bush family, India passed away at the age of 18 in January 2009.