The Domestic Short-Haired cat is a self-sufficient, easy-going, no-nonsense cat. They are often seen in the show-ring in the USA and Canada, but not so much in other countries.
American shorthairs can become quite large and muscular. They arrived on the ships of the first European settlers; being used as rat catchers on board and "slipping off" after arriving. These early pioneers developed thick coats and increased in size from their European counterparts as a measure to protect themselves from the native predators.
When more than one cat lives in a household, it may take up to 5 weeks for the newest member of the family to be completely integrated. All pet cats need a territory of their own - even if it's just its own sleeping or eating space! They are usually very friendly with the other cats in the household, but may vigorously defend their "private" spot!
The hair of a cat is not like human hair. We have a single hair growing out of each follicle. Cats have up to 6 primary hairs, (each surrounded by secondary down hairs), growing from each follicle. The cat also has arrector muscles, (muscles that lift or erect the hair), surrounding each follicle. They raise their hair in response to anger, fear and cold temperatures.
The short-haired breeds that have evolved to cope with hot climates have fewer secondary "down" hairs and shed what they do have at a faster rate. The cold weather, long-hairs have more "down" hairs and retain them longer. If the short-haired breeds are still too hot, they shed their primary hairs at a faster rate.
While cats are more resistant to heat than dogs, they don’t have enough sweat glands to survive for very long at extreme temperatures. Furthermore, cats are more prone to frostbite and hypothermia if their fur gets wet than a dog; because, the wet fur loses its capacity to insulate.
We are pleased to welcome Duckie & Ziva to our practice!
