Domestic short-haired tabbyĪ tabby cat comes down to those distinct marks that define the feline look. A fun fact about calico cats is nearly all of them are female, while the very few calico males are sterile. These are cats of many colors, with patches of black, white, brown, gray and orange scattered around their coats. Rather, these terms describe the markings on the cat. Just keep in mind that terms like calico and tabby have nothing to do with the breed (though genetics is an influence). Types of domestic shorthair catsīecause of their mixed parentage, domestic shorthair cats come in an endless variety of colors, markings and eye color. The American shorthair became an officially recognized breed in 1966. The American shorthair was selectively bred from the most desired aspects of domestic shorthairs, so they would have specific coats, colorings and markings. An American shorthair, on the other hand, is a specific breed and pedigree but owes its existence to the domestic shorthair. It has no pedigree, no “parentage,” no papers. The domestic shorthair is simply a cat of an unknown breed. How are domestic shorthair and American shorthair different? Though food storage methods and building materials improved over the years, humans had ample space in their hearts for the family cat. Just imagine the cozy cat, curled up in front of the hearth as the family sewed, read and sang to pass those long, dark evenings. Naturally, affection and companionship between humans and felines also took root. In exchange for protecting the food supply, they got shelter and a reliable source of fresh protein. Think of those pantries stocked with loaves of bread, pies, flour, cornmeal, dried apples and salt pork, and how these would attract mice.įor centuries, cats and humans had a practical arrangement. Farmers and merchants alike had to protect the grain they were storing for seed, to sell and for feeding livestock. Some of these were then taken inland because there was a need for cats in homes, as well as in barns and shops. They were taken on ships crossing the Atlantic to help control the rodent population onboard. Domestic shorthair historyĬats of various short-hair and long-haired varieties arrived with European settlers as working cats. But they also made great pets!īottom line: A domestic shorthair is the very epitome of a cat, and they make wonderful, loving companions. because they kept barns, homes and businesses free of rodents and vermin. Top job: The domestic shorthair flourished and expanded in the U.S. Your cat may have a look that’s like no other!įun fact: Domestic shorthairs are 80 million strong in the U.S., making them the most common type of cat. Life expectancy: A domestic shorthair cat can live 15-20 years.Īppearance: Domestic shorthairs can come in an endless variety of colors and markings, with eyes of hazel, amber, green or blue. Size: Males weigh 11-15 pounds, females are 6 to 12 pounds. Origin: Affectionately known as the “mutts” of the feline world, their parentage and pedigree are mixed. Yet, they’re the most popular cat in America, and the following will explain why. No two domestic shorthairs are alike, even if they come from the same litter. If your cat is a domestic shorthair, what does that mean? Short answer, your cat is a true original, and that’s something to celebrate.
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