How was the Exotic cat breed created?
The Exotic was created in the 1950s and 1960s by crossing Persians with American Shorthairs and other shorthaired breeds, which produced a cat with a Persian's face and a much shorter coat.
- Home
- Fact categories
- American Shorthair Facts
American Shorthair Facts
American shorthair facts and facts about american shorthair, from the Random Facts shelf.
12 facts on this shelf
Where did the Exotic's American Shorthair ancestry come from?
The Exotic began partly by accident, when American Shorthair breeders crossed their cats with Persians and ended up with stocky, plush-coated, flat-faced cats that became a breed of their own.
How did the American Shorthair's ancestors arrive in North America?
The American Shorthair's ancestors are believed to have arrived with early European settlers, who brought cats on their ships to protect food supplies from rats and mice.
What was the American Shorthair originally called?
The American Shorthair was originally called the Domestic Shorthair and was renamed in 1966 to set the pedigreed breed apart from ordinary mixed-breed cats.
What is the difference between an American Shorthair and a domestic shorthair?
An American Shorthair is a pedigreed breed with a written standard, while a "domestic shorthair" is just a general term for a mixed-breed cat with short fur.
What is the American Shorthair's most famous coat pattern?
The silver tabby, with bold black swirls on a silver background, is the American Shorthair's most iconic look.
How many colors does the American Shorthair come in?
American Shorthairs come in more than 80 different colors and patterns.
Why are American Shorthairs good hunters?
American Shorthairs were bred as working cats, and their muscular build and powerful jaws made them excellent at catching rodents on farms and ships.
Is the American Shorthair one of the original CFA breeds?
The American Shorthair was among the first breeds recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association when it was founded in 1906.
How long do American Shorthairs live?
American Shorthairs are a hardy, healthy breed and often live 15 years or more.
Are American Shorthairs good family pets?
American Shorthairs are easygoing and patient, so they tend to do well with kids and other pets.
Did the American Shorthair return to the CFA top 10?
The American Shorthair made a comeback onto the Cat Fanciers' Association's top 10 list of most popular breeds for 2026 after renewed interest in the classic breed.