FTC Disclosure: This site contains affiliate links. If you click one and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only affiliate with products that I truly find helpful, and commissions help support this blog.
When you think of a typical house cat, chances are the Domestic Shorthair comes to mind. While researching this classic breed, I came across 10 interesting facts about Domestic Shorthair cats.
1. They are the Most Common Cat in the U.S.
The Domestic Shorthair is the most common cat in the United States, accounting for about 90–95% of house cats. It’s also said that there over 80 million Domestic Shorthair cats in American homes. Wow, it’s as if they rule the U.S.!
2. Not all Shorthairs are the Same
Domestic Shorthairs should not be confused with British Shorthairs, American Shorthairs, or other “shorthair” breeds. Although Domestic Shorthairs look similar to other shorthairs, they do not have the same genetic composition. Was I the only one that thought Domestic Shorthairs were the same thing as American Shorthairs?!
3. They are a Mix of Breeds
The Domestic Shorthair is a cat with short fur that is also a mix of unknown breeds. Considering that 98 percent of all cats are not purebred, it makes sense that Domestic Shorthairs are very common due to their mixed ancestry. So, this goes hand-in-hand with the next fact…
4. They Are Not a Particular Breed
Since these cats have mixed ancestry, which can vary from cat to cat, the Domestic Shorthair is not recognized as a specific breed. This is similar to mixed-breed dogs, or “mutts.” Wait, they’re technically not a breed?! What?!
5. These Cats Are Hardworking
Aside from being hardworking, Domestic Shorthairs have also been long favored by humans. This is because, throughout history, people have appreciated their hunting abilities. As “mousers,” they hunt rodents and other small pests. Rodents be gone!
6. They were Domesticated in Egypt
It’s believed that Domestic Shorthairs were domesticated in Egypt around 2000 BC. After that, they made their way around the globe. In fact, they likely landed in North America from boarding the Mayflower and other ships. I have to ask… did they come with little Pilgrim hats too?
7. They Come in a Variety of Colors and Sizes
You can find a Domestic Shorthair in any fur color, especially brown, white, black, and orange. In addition, their coloring can be solid, bi-color, tricolor, tabby, etc. Their eyes can be a variety of colors too, such as blue, green, brown, or hazel. Domestic Shorthairs can also range from 6 to 16 pounds. So basically, these cats could not be more different from one another!
8. They are Generally Healthy
Domestic Shorthairs are generally healthy cats that are not predisposed to any particular diseases. They also have a relatively long life span that ranges from 12 to 14 years or more. However, these cats are prone to overeating, which can lead to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight.
9. They are Low-Maintenance
These cats are considered to be low maintenance because of their short to medium-length fur. Not having long fur means their grooming doesn’t need much attention. However, as with any cat, regular brushing is still important to minimize hairballs and help with shedding. To find out more about why brushing is important, read this blog post.
10. They Are Also Called “Moggies”
In the United Kingdom, Domestic Shorthairs are sometimes called “moggies.” How cute! Umm, petition to make that their permanent name please!
Did any of these 10 interesting facts about Domestic Shorthair cats surprise you? Let us know in the comments below.
Related Content
Next, find out what is the rarest domestic cat breed in the world. Chances are, you haven’t heard of this breed!
To stay up-to-date with our newest blog posts, subscribe to our free weekly newsletter. We’ll never send you spam, and you can unsubscribe at any time.
Subscribe to our newsletter!
Resources
https://www.aspcapetinsurance.com/resources/domestic-shorthair-cat-facts/
https://www.familyeducation.com/life/cats/purebred-vs-domestic-cats
https://www.hillspet.com/cat-care/cat-breeds/domestic-shorthair
https://www.rover.com/blog/americas-most-popular-cat-breeds/
Disclaimer: The Purring Journal is not in the medical field. This post is made for entertainment purposes only. Use the information presented in this article at your own risk. Always seek medical advice from licensed veterinarians.
