🐈 Cats

Domestic Shorthair

The adaptable, everyday cat of America.

Domestic Shorthairs are mixed-ancestry cats that come in every color and personality. They tend to be healthy, adaptable and easy to care for — and shelters are full of wonderful ones.

Lifespan13–17 years
SizeMedium · 8–12 lb
Care levelBeginner
Typical cost$40–80 / month
Great for
First-time ownersApartmentsBusy schedulesAdaptableVariedAffectionate
Domestic Shorthair

Photo: torne (where's my lens cap?) · CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons

Care guide

Daily care

Indoor living, with climbing spaces, scratching posts and window perches. One litter box per cat plus one.

Complete cat food; wet food helps hydration. Fresh water daily — many cats like fountains.

Two or three 10–15 minute play sessions daily with wand toys.

Brush weekly; trim nails every few weeks.

Health

Common health concerns

Know what to watch for. Early detection makes most of these far easier and cheaper to treat.

  • Dental disease
  • Obesity
  • Urinary tract disease
  • Kidney disease (seniors)
  • Hyperthyroidism (seniors)
Veterinary care

Vet visits

Annual exams; twice yearly for seniors with bloodwork.

Find a vet near me

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This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. Costs are rough U.S. estimates for food, supplies and routine care. Always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet’s needs.