Black American Shorthair: Info, Pictures, Facts & History

American Shorthair cats are pedigree versions of North American working cats. Some of the special kitties have stunning black fur, making them Black American Shorthair cats. American Shorthair cats of all shades and colors are typically relaxed, loving companions. Most love spending time with people but are generally happy to hang out and keep themselves busy. They’re sweet and loving with just the right amount of independence.

Breed Overview

American Shorthair cats come in almost every possible coat color, including blue, white, red, brown, and black. It’s also possible to find them with stripes and other patterns. Most have thick fur that provides protection from heat and cold, but they don’t require intensive grooming. And because of their heritage as farm and street cats, most have quite a bit of genetic variation, so they’re often healthy. The loving black American Shorthair cats are the perfect feline companions.

Black American Shorthair Cat Characteristics

The Earliest Records of Black American Shorthair Cats in History

Black American Shorthair cats are likely descendants of European ships’ cats brought on board sailing vessels to prevent rodents from destroying provisions and gnawing through ropes. Cats were even on the Mayflower when it landed in Plymouth in 1620. The ancestors of cats who set sail from the British Isles may have arrived with the 1st century CE Roman invasions. The Roman cats who accompanied the legions as they spread throughout Europe were most likely brought to Rome through trade and contact with Egypt and Mesopotamia. Evidence suggests cats were relatively common throughout the Roman world by the 4th century CE.

How Black American Shorthair Cats Gained Popularity

The cats that arrived on the shores of North America soon came to be valued as all-around working and farm cats. Because of their loving, mellow personalities, they quickly became companions that were welcome to enjoy the comforts of family life. But the American Shorthair’s development is linked to the rising interest in showing pedigree cats in the later part of the 19th century.

Harrison Weir, generally acknowledged as a critical force in the development of modern cat shows, advocated for the recognition of British working cats as a distinct breed, which led to the development of the British Shorthair cat breed. American Shorthair cats were subject to the same process. They’re essentially pedigree versions of North American working cats. Over time, breeders have selected physical traits and personality characteristics to make the American Shorthair cats popular today.

Formal Recognition of Black American Shorthair Cats

American Shorthair cats existed for centuries before being recognized as a breed. The Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) acknowledged the breed in 1906. The CFA was founded that same year, making American Shorthair cats one of the first breeds recognized by the organization.

They perform well in competitions, and several have taken home the CFA’s Best Cat of the Year honors. They were known as Domestic Shorthair cats until 1966. The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized the breed in 1979, but its popularity began increasing during the 1960s. While they often resemble domestic shorthair cats, American Shorthair cats have distinctive round heads and prominent cheeks.

Top 3 Unique Facts About Black American Shorthair Cats

1. They Have Loose Skin

Black American Shorthair cats typically have paunches and relatively loose skin — both protect them from bites and other injuries when hunting and prowling.

2. They’re Not Domestic Shorthair Cats

Domestic shorthair cats are incredibly popular pets, also known as mixed-breed cats, mutt cats, and moggies. American Shorthair cats are selectively bred for temperament and to have the strong, slightly stocky bodies they’re famous for.

3. They’re Prone to Obesity

Because these cats are a bit on the stocky side and don’t have much zippy energy, they can gain weight relatively quickly. It’s essential to keep these kitties moving and maintain healthy weights to prevent the development of chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis and high blood pressure.

Do Black American Shorthair Cats Make Good Pets?

Black American Shorthair cats generally make fantastic pets. They enjoy being around people but are perfectly happy entertaining themselves as long as their favorite companions are close by. They typically make wonderful apartment cats since they’re not energetic and aren’t prone to excessive vocalization.

American Shorthair cats generally live for 15 to 20 years. Most do fine with high-quality cat food that meets American Association of Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutritional guidelines. And, of course, they need access to water, regular dental care, and nail clipping. Their dense short coats only require occasional brushing, and they can generally take care of their bathing needs on their own. Black American Shorthair cats, like all cats, require regular physical activity—a few 10 to 15-minute daily sessions should do the trick.

Conclusion

Black American Shorthair cats have a working cat heritage. Their ancestors kept ships and homes rodent-free for millennia. American Shorthair cats are the pedigree versions of the working cats of North America. They’re typically healthy and easy to care for. Their low activity levels and generally laid-back personalities make them excellent choices for apartment dwellers. While American Shorthair cats love spending time with people, most don’t require constant attention as they’re usually happy to do their own thing as long as their loved ones are around.

Featured Image Credit: marumaru, Shutterstock