The American Shorthair is a beloved breed of cat that has captured the hearts of many cat lovers around the world. This feline is known for its affectionate and laid-back personality, making it a popular choice as a family pet. But where did this breed come from? In this article, we will explore the history of the American Shorthair, including its origins and how it has evolved over time.
Origins of the American Shorthair
Contrary to popular belief, the American Shorthair did not originate in America. Its ancestors were brought over to America by early European settlers as working cats to control the rodent population on ships and farms. These cats were known for their hunting prowess and adaptability, which made them valuable assets to the settlers.
Over time, these cats interbred with local feral cats, resulting in a diverse gene pool that gave rise to various strains of cats with different coats and colors. The first recorded breeding program for American Shorthairs began in 1904 when a group of cat fanciers founded the “Cat Fanciers’ Association” (CFA). This organization was dedicated to promoting the breeding and showing of pedigreed cats, including the American Shorthair.
Development of the American Shorthair
In the early years of the 20th century, breeders focused on developing a strain of American Shorthairs with a silver coat, which was the most popular color at the time. They achieved this by crossing cats with a silver coat with other strains of cats that had desirable traits such as a robust build and good temperament.
By the 1930s, the American Shorthair had become one of the most popular breeds in America due to its friendly nature, easy-care coat, and versatility as a lap cat or a working cat. However, the breed came under threat during World War II due to the shortage of cat food and the increased demand for mousers in the military. Many American Shorthairs were destroyed, which led to a decline in the breed’s population.
Recovery and Evolution
After World War II, dedicated breeders worked to rebuild the American Shorthair population by crossing them with other breeds such as Siamese, Burmese, and Abyssinians to introduce new colors and patterns into the gene pool. This resulted in a broader range of coat colors and patterns, including solid black, blue, cream, tabby, and calico.
In the 1950s, breeders focused on developing the silver tabby American Shorthair, which became one of the most popular color varieties due to its striking appearance. The breed also gained recognition from various cat associations worldwide, including the Governing Council of the Cat Fancy (GCCF) in the UK and the Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFe) in Europe.
Today, the American Shorthair remains a popular breed that has evolved over time to meet the changing preferences of cat owners. While it still retains its hunting instincts, it is now primarily known for its affectionate nature and adaptability to different living situations.
Breed Standards
The American Shorthair is a medium-to-large sized cat, with an average weight of 8-15 pounds. It has a muscular build and a broad, rounded head with large, expressive eyes. Its coat is short, dense, and glossy, with a wide range of colors and patterns accepted under breed standards.
According to the CFA breed standard, the American Shorthair should have a round face with full cheeks, a strong chin, and a well-developed muzzle. Its ears should be medium-sized and slightly rounded at the tips, while its eyes should be large, round, and set wide apart. The body should be well-muscled and balanced, with a thick tail that tapers to a rounded tip.
In terms of coat color and pattern, the CFA recognizes over 80 different varieties for the American Shorthair. The most common colors include silver tabby, brown tabby, black, white, cream, and blue. Patterns can range from solid colors to bi-color, tri-color, and tortoiseshell.
Are American Shorthairs Rare?
No, American Shorthairs are not considered rare cats. In fact, they are one of the most popular cat breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and easy-going personalities, as well as their distinctive markings and colors. American Shorthairs have been recognized as a breed by the Cat Fanciers’ Association since 1906, and there are many breeders and rescue organizations that specialize in this type of cat. While individual cats may vary in availability depending on location and other factors, American Shorthairs are generally not considered to be a rare breed.
Conclusion
The American Shorthair is a fascinating breed with a rich history that dates back to the early days of American settlement. Its evolution over time is a testament to the dedication of breeders who worked tirelessly to maintain and improve its unique traits and characteristics. Today, the American Shorthair remains a beloved breed that is known for its friendly personality, adaptability, and easy-care coat. Whether you are a cat lover or just curious about feline history, the American Shorthair is a breed that is worth exploring.
