Posts tagged "american shorthairs"

Snowshoes 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Jan 19th 2010 10:00AM Filed Under: Cats

The snowshoe cat is known for its strange pattern of coloring. In general, its body and musculature are average, its skull is a simple, equilateral triangle, and its limbs are all proportionate to its body. Its coat, however, is something unique, with white paws that travel up their wrists and shins, almost like long, elegant gloves. They have white faces except for dark, colored areas around their eyes, giving them a slightly raccoon-ish look. They have fluffy, white underbellies, while the rest of them is much darker, especially at the points.

According to the American Cat Fanciers' Association, snowshoes are a relatively new breed of cat, first discovered in 1960 when a Philadelphia cat breeder found her Siamese cat had given birth to three snowshoes. Although this strange mutation may not have been new in nature (there have been paintings of Snowshoe-like cats from ancient Japan and at least one photograph from 1890), this was the first time where a breeder decided to actually select for the cats with positive results. There had been a previous attempt in the 1950s, when cats exhibiting this pattern were called "silver laces."

Snowshoes have a very affectionate temperament and are best suited to households where they can get much attention much of the time. In fact, like their bodies, Snowshoes are very middle-of-the-road in their personalities; they're not too excitable, not too energetic, but just a healthy medium between the best qualities of cats.

American Shorthairs 101

by Evan Jacobs (Subscribe to Evan Jacobs's posts): Dec 1st 2009 12:00PM Filed Under: Cats

Flickr/*yasuhiro

Despite its name, the American shorthair is older than America itself. Records show that American shorthairs were brought over by early settlers, and there is even proof that there were American shorthairs on the Mayflower.

Given their variety of coats -- there are more than eighty -- and the similarity in name with the non-purebred domestic shorthair, this breed is confused for mutts. However, they are more purebred than many other breeds.

With their origins in Europe, American shorthairs were selected for their strength, agility, and ability to hunt mice and rats which was a major concern for most Europeans after 75 million died from the bubonic plague. American shorthairs were also were bred to be large and affectionate, making them excellent companions.

American shorthairs are an easy-going, affectionate cats that require little maintenance. Sly, the Cat Care Guru of petcareeducation.com told us some of the pros and cons.

"Unlike some other cat breeds, American shorthair cats are relatively low-maintenance. [They] are much more independent than some other breeds, and may present some difficulty with behavioral issues. If you are looking for a loyal cat that does not require constant attention, the American shorthair cat is probably the best choice. Most American shorthair cats are relatively easy to train. They learn fast, and can easily adapt to changes in their environment. Due to their friendly nature, it may be necessary for you to teach your cat about any potential dangers in their home environment."

If you are interested in adopting an American shorthair, it is best to do plenty of research (as always). Talk to owners, and go to a reputable adoption organization, such as Purebreed Cat Rescue.

Breed Banners: American Shorthairs

by Paw Nation Staff (Subscribe to Paw Nation Staff's posts): Oct 12th 2009 1:00PM Filed Under: Dogs, Cats, Meet the Breeds

Are American Shorthairs your favorite cat breed? Then get your paws on one of The American Kennel Club® and Cat Fanciers' Association® breed banners to show your allegiance!

You can download this or any other breed sticker from Flickr. Add them to your MySpace page or promote them as bumper stickers to your Facebook profile.

Photo: American Kennel Club

With over 160 dog breeds and 41 cat custom breed banners to choose from, you'll have no problem representing for your beloved breed.

Learn more about your favorite breeds at the upcoming Meet the Breeds event in New York City on October 17th - 18th. For more information, visit MeetTheBreeds.com.

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