Home
/
Cat Breeds
/
American Shorthair
American Shorthair
Origin
United States
Size
Medium Breed
Ideal Space
Apartment
Ideal Weather
15º-30ºC
Life Expectancy
12-15 years
Cost of buying
₹ 10,000 - ₹ 40,000
Top 5 Traits
Playful
Friendly
Independent
Affectionate
Curious
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 2,800 - ₹ 4,200
by Happy Pet TeamUpdated on 16 May 2025
Introduction to the American Shorthair
American Shorthair is a breed with good looks, good temperament and strong health. These cats have a history going back to early American settlers, and they were used by people to help remove pests on ships and farms. For centuries, they have become one of the most beloved house cats in the United States.
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
American Shorthair’s Lifespan and Price
Cost of buying
₹ 10,000 - ₹ 40,000
The price of an American Shorthair cat in India ranges from ₹ 10,000 - ₹ 40,000, depending on pedigree or breeder.
Shop or Adopt an American Shorthair: Make the Right Choice!
Responsible shopping will make sure that ethical breeding is taking place while adopting an American Shorthair will give a loving home to a cat that needs it. Pick based on your ability to keep up with their gentle temperament, grooming needs, and lifespan.
Nutrition Care for the American Shorthair
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,000
Calories per day
Kittens: 250 kcal
Adults: 200 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)
- They require high quality protein for the maintenance of muscle.
- Healthy fats support energy levels and a shiny coat.
- Immunity and joint health are strengthened with the help of essential nutrients.
- Taurine is important for heart and vision health.
- Wet food helps in hydration and urinary tract health.
- It is best to avoid low quality foods to prevent obesity and digestion problems.
- A balanced diet of wet food, lean meats and supplements are vital for overall well being.
Breakdown of Macro-nutrients
Best Foods for American Shorthairs
American Shorthairs can be fed dry and wet food in a combination that fits their nutritional requirements.
Foods to Avoid for American Shorthairs
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Onions and Garlic
Caffeine
Chocolate
Alcohol
Bones
Raw Eggs
Dairy (in some cases)
Avoid feeding your American Shorthair:
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
Although American Shorthairs are healthy cats, they still need regular care and checkups.
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
Grooming the American Shorthair is simple and doesn’t take much time.
Written by
Happy Pet TeamAuthor
Team Happy Pet is a passionate collective of pet experts, enthusiasts, and advocates dedicated to sharing trusted and insightful content.
Our cont
Compare with similar breeds
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.
