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American Shorthair

American Shorthair

Origin

🇺🇸

United States

Size

Medium Breed

Ideal Space

Apartment

Ideal Weather

15º-30ºC

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹2,800

Basic Lifestyle

₹4,200

Premium Lifestyle

Top 5 Traits

Playful

Friendly

Independent

Affectionate

Curious

Close up of a silver tabby American Shorthair cat with striking yellow green eyes

by Happy Pet Team 

Introduction to the American Shorthair

Characteristics

Temperament with Kids

Aggressive

Friendly

Playfulness

Silent

Very Playful

Friendliness

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Shedding amount

Negligible

Frequent

Compatibility with other cats

Not Friendly

Super Friendly

Prey Drive

Low

High

Need for attention

Independent

Very Needy

Monthly Expenses

Nutrition Care for the American Shorthair

Monthly Food Expenses

₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,000

Calories per day

Kittens250 kcal

Adults200 kcal

Essential Nutrients

Protein

Fats

Carbohydrates

Vitamins

Minerals

Fiber

List of foods

Dry kibble

Wet canned food

Chicken (cooked or raw)

Eggs (cooked)

Cottage cheese

Pumpkin

Carrots (cooked)

Breakdown of Macro-nutrients

Best Foods for American Shorthairs

Foods to Avoid for American Shorthairs

Avoid anything with these ingredients

Onions and Garlic

Caffeine

Chocolate

Alcohol

Bones

Raw Eggs

Dairy (in some cases)

Health

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 500 - ₹ 700

Common Health Issues

Dental Problems

Gastrointestinal Issues

Obesity

Upper Respiratory Infections

Fleas and Ticks

Hairballs

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI)

Skin & coat disorders

Activities

Play with Toys

Chasing Objects

Exploring

Climbing

Scratching

Energy Level

Medium

Exercise routine

30 - 60 minutes

Recognising Stress

Hiding

Increased vocalization

Decreased appetite

Overgrooming

Changes in litter box behavior

Healthcare for the American Shorthair

Vaccination details

Growth Stage

Core Vaccines

6-8 Weeks

Feline Herpesvirus 1 (FVRCP

6-8 Weeks

Rabies

8-10 Weeks

FVRCP booster

8-10 Weeks

Rabies booster

12-16 Weeks

FVRCP booster

12-16 Weeks

Rabies booster

1 year onward

FVRCP booster every 1-3 years

1 year onward

Rabies booster every 1-3 years

American Shorthair Grooming Routine

Avg Monthly Expenses

₹ 800 - ₹ 1,500

Shedding Level

Low Shedding

Hygienic Checklist

Litter Box

Grooming (for some breeds)

Hydration

Health Observation

Play and Exercise

Nail Trimming

Benefits of Grooming

Cleanliness

Low Shedding

Odourless

Prevents Bad Breath

Prevents infections

American Shorthair’s Lifespan and Price

Cost of buying

₹ 10,000 - ₹ 40,000

Shop or Adopt an American Shorthair: Make the Right Choice!

written by image

Written by

Happy Pet Team

Author

Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content. Our contributors include experienced pet parents, dedicated fosters, stray dog community workers, seasoned vets, aquarists specializing in aquatic pet care, and bird caretakers who nurture and cultivate avian well-being. We also collaborate with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in pet nutrition, behavior, exercise, and training to provide well-researched, practical guidance for pet owners. From cat lovers and dog trainers to bird enthusiasts and aquarium specialists, our diverse expertise helps every pet thrive. Whether you're looking for expert guidance or just a dose of pet-loving joy, Team Happy Pet is your go-to source for all things pets!
 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are American Shorthairs good family pets?

Yes! They are friendly, calm and good with children and other pets.

How do I keep them from getting overweight?

Be sure to measure meals, limit treats and give regular playtime or climbing activities.

How much grooming do they need?

Very little. They should usually be brushed once a week to keep them clean and healthy.

Are they different from regular domestic shorthairs?

Yes, American Shorthairs are a pedigreed breed with consistent traits, unlike randomly bred domestic cats.

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