Cat Breeds - American Shorthair
Published in Cats & Dogs News
The American Shorthair is the most popular and most prevalent breed in North America -- chances are, if you have a cat, it's an American Shorthair. The breed is believed to be descended from English cats brought to North America by early European settlers to protect valuable cargo from mice and rats. They're medium to large sized cats, with powerful legs, strong paws, a squarish muzzle, and coat of thick, dense fur to protect them from cold, moisture, and superficial skin injuries.
American Shorthairs are affectionate, long-lived, and get along well with other family members, including dogs. They come in a virtual rainbow of colors, but their eyes, pad color, and nose will always match their coloring. Their tail tapers to a blunt tip and has no kinks. While they're excellent hunters, their sunny and gentle disposition make it ideal for families. However, as anyone who's ever had a fat cat can tell you, shorthairs tend to get overweight very easily, as they tend to eat when they're bored.
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