The Complete Guide to Finding the Perfect American Shorthair for Sale

Introduction

American Shorthairs are one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, known for their affectionate nature, low-maintenance grooming needs, and striking appearance. If you're considering adding an American Shorthair to your family, this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know to find the perfect companion.

Finding Your American Shorthair

1. Research Breeders

The first step in finding an American Shorthair is to locate reputable breeders. Start by searching online for breeders in your area and check out their websites to learn more about their programs and available kittens. Attend cat shows to meet breeders and view their cats in person.

Ask for references from other American Shorthair owners or consult the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) breeder directory for a list of ethical and experienced breeders.

2. Set a Budget

The cost of an American Shorthair can vary depending on the breeder, bloodline, and age of the kitten. On average, you can expect to pay between $600 and $1,200 for a pet-quality kitten. Show-quality kittens with superior pedigrees can cost significantly more.

Be prepared for additional expenses such as spaying or neutering, vaccinations, microchipping, and ongoing food and medical care.

3. Consider Your Lifestyle

American Shorthairs are generally easygoing and adaptable cats, but their needs should still be taken into account. If you have a busy lifestyle, ensure you can provide sufficient attention and playtime for your cat.

They prefer a home with plenty of vertical space to climb and explore, so consider investing in cat trees and window perches. American Shorthairs are also prone to obesity, so monitor their diet and provide opportunities for exercise.

Tips and Tricks

1. Visit the Breeder

Once you've identified a potential breeder, arrange a visit to their cattery. This will allow you to meet the kittens in person, observe their behavior, and ask questions about their health and temperament.

Pay attention to the cleanliness and organization of the cattery, and inquire about the breeder's socialization practices. Healthy kittens should be bright-eyed, active, and playful.

2. Choose the Right Kitten

When choosing a kitten, consider its personality and energy level. Are you looking for a playful and adventurous cat or a more laid-back and affectionate companion? Observation and interaction can help you find the kitten that best suits your lifestyle.

Pay attention to the kitten's appearance. The coat should be short, dense, and evenly colored. The eyes should be clear and bright, and the ears should be erect. Any signs of health issues, such as discharge from the eyes or nose, should be a red flag.

3. Contracts and Guarantees

Before bringing your new kitten home, ensure you have a written contract with the breeder that outlines the terms of the sale, including the purchase price, health guarantees, and vaccination records.

Reputable breeders will offer a health guarantee for a specific period, typically 12 months. This guarantee should cover any genetic or congenital defects. It's also important to ensure that the kitten has received its age-appropriate vaccinations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Buying from Unlicensed Breeders or Pet Stores

Avoid purchasing American Shorthairs from unlicensed breeders or pet stores. Unlicensed breeders may not follow ethical breeding practices or provide proper care for the kittens. Pet stores often source kittens from puppy mills, which are known for poor breeding conditions and health problems.

2. Not Socializing Your Kitten

American Shorthairs are naturally friendly cats, but they need socialization from an early age to ensure they are well-adjusted and comfortable in different situations. Start socializing your kitten by exposing it to a variety of people, animals, and environments.

3. Overfeeding Your Cat

American Shorthairs are prone to obesity, so it's important to monitor their diet and calorie intake. Free-feeding can lead to weight gain, so feed your cat on a regular schedule and measure out its portions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affectionate and family-friendly
• Low-maintenance grooming needs
• Generally healthy and hardy breed
• Adaptable and easygoing
• Great for first-time cat owners

Cons:

• Prone to obesity
• Can be destructive if not provided with enough mental and physical stimulation
• Not hypoallergenic
• Can be expensive to purchase and care for

Call to Action

If you're ready to bring an American Shorthair into your life, start by researching reputable breeders in your area. Attend cat shows to meet with breeders and view kittens. Visit the breeder's cattery before making a decision. Choose a kitten that matches your lifestyle and personality. Ensure you have a written contract that outlines the terms of the sale and health guarantees. Start socializing your kitten early on to ensure it grows into a well-adjusted and happy companion.

Additional Resources

• Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA): https://cfa.org/
• American Cat Fanciers Association (ACFA): https://www.acfacat.com/
• The International Cat Association (TICA): https://tica.org/

Table 1: Popular American Shorthair Colors and Patterns

Table 2: Health and Care of American Shorthairs

Table 3: Estimated Costs of Owning an American Shorthair