American Shorthair health guide
Also known as: ASH, Domestic Shorthair (pedigree)
About this breed
The American Shorthair is a robust, easy-care pedigree with fewer inherited problems than most, which makes routine screening rather than breed-specific worry the focus. Heart disease, weight and age-related kidney change are the three things we track.
Living in Macau's climate
The dense short coat manages Macau's climate well with weekly brushing, increased during the spring moult. Indoor cats still feel summer heat in high-rise flats; provide ventilation or cool rooms during heat warnings.
Common health conditions
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Signs: Often silent; breathing faster than 30 breaths per minute in sleep is an early clue.
Prevention: Heart auscultation at every annual visit and ultrasound when indicated.
Obesity
Signs: A once-athletic build slowly disappearing into a rounded silhouette.
Prevention: Measured meals, daily play and twice-yearly weight checks.
Dental disease
Signs: Bad breath, tartar and going off dry food.
Prevention: Brushing where tolerated and annual dental scoring.
Chronic kidney disease in seniors
Signs: Gradual thirst increase, weight loss and duller coat from age 10.
Prevention: Yearly kidney blood and urine tests from age 7 catch it years before symptoms.
Daily care tips
- Keep hunting-style play in the daily routine to hold weight steady.
- Brush weekly and more in the moult.
- Do not skip annual checks just because this breed is famously healthy.
- Start senior blood work at 7; kidneys whisper before they shout.
Screening schedule
8 to 16 weeks
Vaccination course with heart auscultation.
1 to 6 years
Annual exam with weight, dental and heart check.
7 years and up
Twice-yearly senior checks with kidney and thyroid blood work.
Book a breed-savvy check-up
Our vets see American Shorthair patients every week and know exactly what to screen for. Call +853 6677 6611 or book online.
Book a check-upRelated breeds
This guide is general information for the breed as a whole and does not replace an examination of your individual pet. When in doubt, always call the clinic.
Reviewed by the Royal Veterinary Center veterinary team.