Official ICCF Breed Standard
Brief Historical Background
The American Shorthair cat has deep historical roots dating back to the 17th century, when the first European settlers brought domestic cats with them to North America. These cats protected food supplies from rodents and quickly adapted to harsh conditions. Strong and resilient, they developed through natural selection. Over time, breeders began purposeful selection, reinforcing strong bone structure, muscular build, dense coat, and a wide range of colors. By the early 1900s, the breed was officially recognized under the name “American Shorthair.” Today, it is one of the most recognizable and admired breeds in the United States and abroad, valued for its beauty, health, and balanced temperament.
General Appearance
The American Shorthair cat gives the impression of a sturdy, well-balanced animal of medium to large size, combining strength and grace. Its build reflects natural endurance and a hunting background. The body is slightly elongated, the chest broad, and the limbs strong and well-proportioned, with round, firm paws. The head is rounded with smooth contours and well-defined cheekbones. The eyes are large and expressive, giving an open, friendly look. The ears are medium-sized with gently rounded tips. The coat is short, dense, and glossy, evenly covering the body. The overall impression should be one of harmony, strength, and health, without signs of either heaviness or refinement.
Important Proportions
Proportions must emphasize balance. The body is slightly longer than the height at the shoulders, providing stability. The head is rounded, with approximately equal width and height. The eyes are set apart by the width of one eye. The ears are moderate in size, symmetrically positioned. Limbs are proportionate, paws compact and rounded. The tail is medium in length, thick at the base, tapering toward the tip. All parts should create a harmonious whole—no feature should dominate. Balanced proportions define the American Shorthair type.
Behavior and Character
The American Shorthair is known for its calm and even temperament. Friendly and social yet independent, it is intelligent, adaptable, and easy to train. It gets along well with children and other animals, showing no aggression. Active and curious, it enjoys play but also relaxes peacefully beside its owner. Its hunting instincts are seen in agility and alertness. The breed is patient, loyal, and self-sufficient, making it an ideal companion for various types of families.
Head
The head is large, rounded, with soft lines and well-developed cheekbones. The forehead is broad and slightly curved; the transition to the muzzle is smooth. The chin is strong and aligned with the nose. The muzzle is medium in length, neither pointed nor overly heavy. The nose is straight and of medium width. The overall head shape must convey harmony and typical breed expression.
Facial Part
The muzzle tapers gently toward the chin. Cheeks are rounded and full, especially in mature males. The chin is firm and well-defined. The nose is straight with a smooth transition to the forehead. The facial expression should be open and friendly, maintaining symmetry and proportion.
Eyes
The eyes are large, round, and wide-set, giving a lively and attentive expression. Eye color depends on the coat but should always be bright, clear, and intense. The shape is predominantly round with a slight almond hint. The look should reflect intelligence, friendliness, and curiosity.
Ears
The ears are medium-sized, broad at the base, with rounded tips. They are moderately high and well-spaced, enhancing the rounded shape of the head. The inner side is softly furnished. The ears should appear natural and balanced with the overall head shape.
Neck
The neck is medium in length, strong, and proportionate to the body. In males, it appears more muscular. It connects smoothly to the head and shoulders, without abrupt transitions. The neck emphasizes balance and strength in the overall structure.
Body
The body is strong, muscular, and slightly elongated. The chest is broad and deep, the back straight, and the loin firm. The abdomen is slightly tucked, with rounded flanks. The bone structure is solid but not coarse. The overall build should reflect strength, health, and endurance.
Tail
The tail is medium in length, thick at the base, tapering to a rounded tip. It should be straight, flexible, and in harmony with the body, continuing the line of the spine without kinks or deviations.
Forelimbs
The forelegs are strong, muscular, of medium length, and proportionate to the body. Shoulders are broad and blend smoothly with the chest. Bones are solid, and paws are compact and round. Forelegs should appear straight and parallel when viewed from the front.
Hindlimbs
The hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs, providing agility and stability. Thighs are muscular, knees strong, and paws compact. Legs should be straight and parallel when viewed from behind.
Gait and Movement
Movement is smooth, free, and confident. The gait demonstrates coordination, balance, and grace. The cat’s stride reflects power, flexibility, and endurance.
Coat
The coat is short, dense, and resilient, with a rich undercoat and a glossy surface. It lies close to the body, evenly covering it. The coat should be protective and healthy in texture and appearance.
Acceptable Colors
A wide range of colors is accepted: solid, tabby of all varieties, silver, smoke, bicolor, and tortoiseshell with white. The most prized are classic silver tabbies with clear contrast. Colors associated with colorpoint or Abyssinian-style ticking are not allowed. Eye color must harmonize with the coat tone.
Size
Males are larger, typically weighing 5–7 kg (up to 8 kg), while females weigh 3.5–5.5 kg. The size should reflect a balance of strength and elegance.
Faults
Faults include poor balance or proportions, weak chin, overly long or narrow muzzle, incorrect ear or eye shape, dull eye color, weak musculature, overly thin or massive body, or poor coat quality. Dull or indistinct tabby markings reduce evaluation. Behavioral issues such as aggression or excessive shyness are also undesirable.
Disqualification
Disqualifying faults include aggression, severe tail deformities, malocclusion, asymmetrical head, strabismus, blindness, limb deformities, or evidence of hybridization. Cats showing colorpoint, Abyssinian-type ticking, long coat, or lack of undercoat are excluded. Any congenital defect affecting health or movement also leads to disqualification.
Important Notes
The American Shorthair maintains health and vitality through natural selection. Breeding should focus on preserving type, proportions, and color brilliance. ICCF recommends careful control of hereditary diseases and responsible breeding practices. Only cats with ICCF documentation confirming pedigree are eligible for shows and breeding.
Conclusion
The American Shorthair cat is a harmonious blend of strength, endurance, and friendly disposition. Under ICCF standards, participation in shows and breeding is permitted only for cats with official ICCF documents confirming pedigree and compliance. The goal of breeding is to maintain the balance of health, temperament, and exterior, ensuring the continued excellence and stability of this historic breed in global feline development.
