American shorthair cat - breed description

Cats of this breed are considered one of the most beautiful - that is why they are so in demand. Another name for these beautiful purebred animals is kurtshaar. Consider what features cats have, what are their pros and cons, how to properly care for a cat and other interesting information.

The history of the breed

It will be interesting that these short-haired cats have existed in the USA (they are quite popular) for more than 400 years. They were brought to America by immigrant colonists from England. It was precisely at that time that it was considered relevant to keep cats on ships — so that animals would destroy the rats who ate up all the food.

At first, nobody paid attention to the external data of cats - they did not play the meaning of color, shape of the body, etc. The Kurzhaars had developed muscles, they were strong physically, and the animals also had strong jaws and a quick reaction. All these qualities played a fundamental role in order to lead a successful fight against rodents. Cats were engaged in catching mice and rats, lived not only on ships, but also on the ranch - no one even suspected that they would ever become a real national pride of America.

Around the 1960s, the Kurzhaars began to take an active part in exhibitions, and this breed managed to win prizes. It is worth noting that such popularity did not appear by chance. A great job was done by breeders - in order to improve the exterior, cats were crossed with Persian breeds. Due to such experiments, the American Shorthair acquired a unique color of silver, as well as some features that are inherent in the Persian breeds.

At the moment, this breed is of particular value, it is officially recognized.American Shorthair have not only aesthetic, memorable appearance, but also a unique character that can not be found in other pets.

As for statistics, the popularity of this type of breed in the United States ranks 4th.

General information about the breed

Immediately it should be noted that the cats of this breed have an unusually proportional body, they are strong and muscular. Externally, the animal does not look like a sissy - at first glance it can be understood that they are fearless hunters with a strong, strong-willed character.

Judging by the standard measures - kurtshaars are heavy type. Moreover, males are much larger than females: the weight of the first can reach 8 kilograms, while cats weigh about 4-5 kg.

So, let us consider how it is possible to determine the belonging of an animal to a given breed:

1. Wide, well developed chest.
2. The limbs are of medium length and are quite powerful.
3. Paws - round.
4. The back is quite wide, and to the base of the tail is beveled.
5. The tail has a blunt end, quite thick.
6. The coat is thick and dense, pleasant and silky to the touch.
7. The ears are rounded at the ends.
8. Very beautiful eyes - expressive and large.

The muzzle is square, the chin is quite powerful, and the length of the head is almost proportional to its width.

The color of the eyes of the animal depends on the color of the cat. If the American Shorthair has a snow-white color - heterochromia is possible (eyes of different colors), in cats of silver color eyes are usually green.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of the breed?

Cats live about 10-15 years. If you are determined to purchase a pet, you must take into account that the nature of these animals is very wayward, and all qualities must be taken into account in order to live in peace with the pets.

Consider the main positive qualities of the nature of cats:

• wonderful hunters;
• calm, good-natured nature;
• high intelligence;
• cats are very beautiful;
• almost never get sick if proper care is provided;
• loyal to the owners;
• have a quiet voice - you can be sure that you will not be annoyed by a loud meow.

Nevertheless, as with any breed, Americans also have negative qualities of character, which will suit far from everyone:

• freedom-loving nature;
• love of loneliness.

They like to eat very much, if you feed an animal in unlimited quantities, obesity is possible - cats suffer from this, they can start to hurt.

Based on the foregoing, it is safe to say that this breed has much more positive than negative qualities. You can safely leave the animal alone for 8-9 hours, while the kurtshaar will not feel deprived. It is very convenient for residents of large cities - most importantly, do not forget that the pet must be balanced to eat during the day.

How to care for animals?

The rules are simple - cats are unpretentious, rarely get sick. Their coat is short, so you can not worry about the fact that in the apartment and on things there will be a lot of villi. Of course, the cat needs to be combed, it is desirable to do it daily. Reserve in advance with a brush with teeth of different lengths - such products are sold in any specialized pet store.Do not forget that during the period of molting the amount of falling wool will increase - therefore, the pet will need to be combed several times a day.

In order to get rid of wool, many recommend using a wet towel. Scrub the excess, then wipe the cat with a wet towel, or a napkin - the remnants of wool will stick to the fabric, due to which you will be able to get rid of the pesky pile without any problems.

Consider what are the features of the content of the Kurzhaar:

1. You should wash the cat as it gets dirty - you only need to use specialized animal shampoos.
2. It is worth preparing for the fact that your pet will require activity. Get a leash with a harness and at least sometimes walk with an animal - believe me, these efforts will pay off a hundredfold. It is advisable to purchase a special flea collar, or to carry out processing using special drops.
3. Twice a month, the cat needs to clean its ears. Always monitor the condition of the eyes, you can sometimes wash them with a decoction of chamomile.
4. Immediately buy kogtetochku. It is necessary for your pet, otherwise you risk furniture, as well as repairs.If you consider the procedure of removing claws humane - bring the animal to the vet.
5. Do not forget to clean the tray after the cat! This is very important, as animals are clean and can simply not go to a dirty tray. Do not neglect the special fillers - with them it will be much easier for the cat to provide care.

What diseases are affected by cats?

Above, we stipulated the fact that pets have good health and are ill very rarely. Nevertheless, it is worth highlighting the ailments to which animals are most susceptible.

1. Heart pathologies - as a rule, they are hereditary.
2. Cats are obese. Because of their high weight, they may develop a pathology of the hip joints. The danger of the disease lies in the fact that the cat is experiencing discomfort while walking, can also limp - naturally, the activity of the cat will decrease.
3. Kidney disease - with an improper diet, as well as after castration.

Americans have a very good appetite - the owner needs to carefully monitor the nutrition of his pet. It is advisable to often include the cat in active games (she will only be pleased), to walk her to a new age,try to feed the cat balanced.

The animals are well developed immunity, so they are practically not susceptible to infectious diseases. However, all veterinarians claim that vaccination is needed anyway. The first time the vaccine is put at the age of three months, then it is necessary to inject the same preparation annually. You can not forget about anthelmintic drugs - about what medicine to choose, you will be prompted by a veterinarian.

What kind of character do cats have?

Cats are completely non-conflicting, they love people and are unforgiving. Getting along with an American is easier than ever, and a pet will be treated very well by children. The same applies to dogs - a cat and with them will easily find a common language. But do not forget that cats are real hunters - therefore, friendship with birds or rodents is unlikely to develop. Do not worry - just buy a special bell for the cat neck, he will notify the feathered that the danger is approaching.

Pets are silent and unobtrusive. You should not expect that the animal will constantly follow you - the Kurzhaars themselves are able to find a lesson in spirit.If you want to please your pet, equip the rookery for cats at a height - they just love to sit on high surfaces and watch everything that happens below.

It is important to the cat treats with respect - you can not pull, drag along, squeeze the animal without his consent. Only in this case, the pet will treat well to all family members. Be prepared for the fact that the American will bring you a "gift" - a hunting trophy. Do not be afraid and upset - the kitten does it in order to earn praise - they adore her.

Despite the fact that the voice of cats is very melodious and sonorous - you can be sure that you will rarely hear it. As a rule, they find a common language with the owner with the help of facial expressions - literally one glance at the cutest face of an animal will be enough to understand what it wants. If you like peace and quiet in the house - the Kurzhaar will be a wonderful choice. But the owners, who are counting on an abundance of caress and tenderness, it is better to abandon this breed of cats. They are independent, sleep alone and do not particularly like it when they take an animal in their arms and pet it all the time.You can pet your pet only if the cat wants it herself.

The American Shorthair is considered a pet, but even if it is on the street - you can be sure that the cat will not disappear. They are the most real, natural hunters - after all, it was for this purpose that the breed was bred. If desired, the cat can be taught to several teams - due to the fact that the pets have a well-developed intellect. But again, do not forget that animals have a wayward character. Until very old age, a pet will delight you and family members with activity, cheerfulness.

Principles of feeding

It is necessary to feed the animals either with special dry or wet food, although natural food is also suitable - egg yolk, these cats love boiled meat. It is necessary to refuse cheap feeds immediately - with regular use they can provoke serious health problems (in particular, with the gastrointestinal tract and kidneys), as well as to beriberi.

Video: American Shorthair