American Shorthair cats are the true-blue, American felines. Although these cats fall in the purebred category, they are still the most common & randomly found cats in the country. Ironically, these cats were not given their due recognition and admiration till as late as the 1960s. They were instead looked upon as the country cousins of the more fancy breeds.
It was only in 1965 that Shorthairs came to be regarded as popular and admirable creatures after the Cat Fancier's Association named a silver tabby male Most terrific Cat. For most Americans, the silver tabby with its attractive black markings, is still the best-loved variety of Shorthairs even today.
The Shorthairs with their traditional good looks and strong, thickset body are quite popular among the average cat lovers. They have a strong, strapping frame with powerful chest and shoulder muscles and a strong jaw. They can decorate a fancy mansion as well as roam the dark streets equally well. The natural beauty of the Shorthairs together with their vivacity has added to their popularity. Another important quality of Shorthairs is that they are resilient and have an adaptable temperament.
However, these cats are not given to cuddling and petting; they would much rather be in your company rather than on your person; this is because they are playful, yet quiet. The Shorthairs can be trained without much difficulty and make for very good social companions. You might also want to note that these cats get along quite well with kids as well as with other animals. Their loyalty is worth mentioning because the American Shorthairs are a breed of cats that hold human companionship in high esteem despite their independent nature.
There was a point of time in the history of cats, when breeds such as the Persian cats and Angoras lapped up the credit in terms of popularity and affection that American Shorthairs deserved to win. The admission of these foreign breeds reduced the Shorthairs to a common house cat even though it had been close to for a longer time, and had proved its worth and loyalty. Fortunately, in the early 18th century there began a selective breeding program for the preservation of the naturalness of the American Shorthair; and today this cat is a well-liked and well-accepted breed. It has also earned its spurs as a loving and loyal companion.