What Is a Domestic Shorthair Cat?

What is a Domestic Shorthair cat? Often referred to as the “mutt” or “moggy” of the feline world, the Domestic Shorthair is the most common cat breed in the U.S.

Unlike purebred cats with specific lineage and traits, Domestic Shorthairs aren’t technically a breed and come in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and personalities. Their adaptability, low-maintenance grooming needs, and unique personalities make them a favorite among cat lovers.

Whether you’ve seen a tabby, calico, or tuxedo cat, chances are you’ve encountered a Domestic Shorthair! Let’s explore more about this popular breed.

Overview

Weight range: 6–16 pounds
Length/size range: 12–15 inches
Coat: Short hair, can be any color or pattern
Life expectancy: 12–20 years (this can vary depending on if your cat is primarily indoors vs outdoors)

History of the Domestic Shorthair

Unlike purebred cats that are bred for specific traits, Domestic Shorthairs have evolved naturally over time. They’ve been around for thousands of years and it’s believed that they were brought to North America by European settlers, where they became invaluable for their skills in hunting rodents.

Domestic Shorthair cat solid black

Physical characteristics

Domestic Shorthairs come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. Because they don’t have a specific lineage, their physical traits can vary greatly, but there are some common characteristics you may notice:

Common patterns: Tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, tuxedo, and solid
Common colors: Black, orange, grey, brown, white, or a mix of colors
Body type: Athletic build with a medium-sized frame

This variability is one of the reasons so many people adore Domestic Shorthairs—no two cats are exactly alike!

Domestic Shorthair vs American Shorthair cats

It’s important to note that the Domestic Shorthair is different from the American Shorthair. While they share some physical similarities, American Shorthairs are a recognized breed with a specific lineage, whereas Domestic Shorthairs have no pedigree and refer to mixed breed cats with short coats.

As a result, Domestic Shorthair cats vary widely in terms of appearance, whereas American Shorthairs typically have a consistent look with a round face and swirled tabby markings.

Domestic Shorthair cat calico

Personality and behavior

Just like their appearance, the Domestic Shorthair cat personality can differ widely. However, many are known for being friendly, playful, and easygoing—making them a great option for first-time cat owners. They typically adapt well to different living environments, whether you’re in an apartment or a large home with other pets. Some Domestic Shorthairs may be more outgoing and love to interact with guests, while others might be more independent and prefer quiet time on their own.

Since the Domestic Shorthair isn’t defined by strict characteristics, each cat has its unique quirks. If you adopt more than one, chances are you’ll have multiple different personalities to learn!

Domestic Shorthair cat tortie

Caring for a Domestic Shorthair

Grooming

Domestic Shorthair cats have short, dense coats that require minimal grooming.

Do Domestic Shorhair cats shed?

Yes, Domestic Shorthair cats typically shed hair, although the volume may vary from cat to cat. Regular brushing will help keep their fur shiny and reduce shedding—which they do plenty of, though often less than their long-haired counterparts.

Are Domestic Shorthair cats hypoallergenic?

No, Domestic Shorthair cats aren’t typically hypoallergenic; if you’re looking for an allergy-friendly (or hypoallergenic) cat breed, these kitties likely aren’t a good fit. While some may shed less than others, they still produce dander which can trigger allergies in folks that are sensitive to them.

Healthy diet and clean litter box

Like all cats, Domestic Shorthairs need a well-balanced diet to stay healthy. Feeding them high-quality cat food, preferably formulated to their lifestage, is crucial. Pet parents will also want to have at least one litter box per cat in the house, keeping them clean daily.

If you want a more hands-off approach to litter box cleaning, a self-cleaning litter box like Litter-Robot can help keep your home odor-free and make sure your cat always has a clean place to do their business.

Overall health

How long do Domestic Shorthair cats live? These cats are known for their hardiness and typically live long, healthy lives. On average, their lifespan ranges from 12 to 20 years, with many living into their late teens. This longevity is often attributed to their “hybrid vigor,” a term that refers to the natural health and robustness that comes from mixed breed genetics.

A few specific health concerns that are more commonly seen in Domestic Shorthairs include:

As with any pet, keeping up with regular vet visits can help catch any possible health issues early on. If you’re ever concerned that something may be off with your Domestic Shorthair, you can always reach out to your vet for their opinion.

Domestic Shorthair cat grey tuxedo

Bringing home a Domestic Shorthair

The Domestic Shorthair cat is a versatile and loving companion, perfect for many types of households. Whether you’re drawn to their variety of colors and patterns or their friendly personalities, these cats make wonderful pets. With proper care, a healthy diet, and regular vet visits, your Domestic Shorthair can live a long, happy life by your side.

Domestic Shorthair cats are readily available at animal shelters and rescues. If you’re looking to bring one home, visit your local shelter or scroll online adoption platforms.

When adopting a Domestic Shorthair, consider their individual temperament and how they’ll fit into your household. These adaptable cats can thrive in many environments, but you must have the time, space, and resources to care for them properly and allow them to flourish in their new home!

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