Standards

General  

The American Shorthair breed originated from cats following settlers from Europe to North America. The general effect should be that of a strongly built, well balanced, symmetrical cat with conformation indicating power, endurance, and agility.  

Points 

Head:  

30 

Shape  

Top of head 

The broad head gives a rounded impression, but it is slightly longer than broad. Top of head is rounded in profile, but not domed. 

10 

Muzzle and chin 

The nose is of medium length and broad. The muzzle is massive, with square contours and clearly defined with a slight whisker break. The chin is full and strong. 

10 

Profile  

The profile is clearly curved, with a moderate stop.   

10 

Eyes 

Large and wide with upper lid shaped like half an almond (cut lengthwise) and lower lid shaped in a fully rounded curve. At least width of one eye between eyes. Outer corners set very slightly higher than inner corners.  

5 

Ears 

The ears are medium sized with slightly rounded tips, which may have tufts. They are wide set but not very open at base. 

5 

Body: 

30 

Size and boning 

Medium to large in size with quite heavy boning. Females can be proportionately smaller. 

10 

Torso 

Rectangular format. The rib cage is round and well developed. The torso is rounded and of even width, back level. 

8 

Neck 

Medium short, muscular and solid. 

4 

Legs and paws 

Medium length, solid muscles, firm rounded paws. 

8 

Tail 

The tail is of medium length in proportion to body; it tapers slightly from a broad base to a rounded tip. 

5 

Coat: 

20 

Length 

Short.  

5 

Texture  

Dense, firm and glossy, close lying with sufficient undercoat. 

10 

Colour 

The colours not belonging to the original gene pool (chocolate, lilac, cinnamon, fawn, caramel, , colourpoint, sepia and mink colours as well as their combinations with white) are not recognized. All other colours and patterns are recognized. Any amount of white is permitted. 

5 

Condition  

See General part 

5 

Total  

100 

Special breed faults 

Low, flat forehead. 
Heavy, protruding eyebrow ridges.
Too big, too round or deep in set eyes.
Long, pointed ears or ears set too close together.
Too short and thick or too long and slender neck.
The tail is whip-like, too short and thick or carried over the back in a squirrel fashion. 

Without certificates 

Fine boning.
Long or narrow head. 
Long Roman nose. 
Thin muzzle.  

Disqualify 

White buttons or lockets.
Long hair. 

Remarks 

While the breed is considered medium to large in size, balance and proportion are to be considered of greater consequence.  No part of the cat should look out of balance with any other part.   
Allowance is to be made for smaller size in females. 

Outcross with other breeds 

None