Domestic Shorthairs make for easy going, adaptable and endlessly curious house buddies. Friendly to a fault, they love their humans, thrive on attention, and enjoy exploring the forgotten corners of your home.
Personality and temperament
One of the most popular feline companions, the Domestic Shorthairs are a mixed breed cat, often known as a ‘Moggie’ or ‘Tabby cat’. Because they aren’t a pure breed, their personalities can vary widely. Some are devoted lap-lovers, demanding cuddles and warmth, while others are playful explorers, always searching for hidden corners and high-up vantage points. Interestingly, ginger tabby Domestic Shorthairs are usually male and laid-back, while those with tortoise shell markings are usually female and somewhat cranky! Most Domestic Shorthairs are loyal to their human family, sociable with kids and friendly with other pets. Generally curious creatures, these intelligent cats love nothing more than playtime with their favourite person.
Size and appearance
Domestic Shorthairs are a medium-sized cat with strong, athletic bodies (built for climbing on top of your bookcases). Most males are around 7kg, while females generally weigh slightly less. They come in almost every colour and with every pattern, including tabby, tortoiseshell, black, white, ginger, grey and calico. It’s said that no two Domestic Shorthairs look the same – talk about unique. Some have round heads, some have a more triangle-shaped look, while their eyes can be gold, green or blue.
History
The long story of Domestic Shorthairs can be traced all the way back to our earliest days, when wild cats began to stalk the rodents of human settlements. Over the years these shy felines went from curious outliers to cherished pets, and by the time of the Pharaohs they were well and truly seen as welcomed companions. Though the Egyptians were very protective of their felines, many Domestic Shorthairs were taken by traders to Europe and the New World, while monks travelled with them to Asia. We can thank the First Fleet for bringing them to Australia in the late 1700s, before they crossed the Tasman to arrive in New Zealand in the 19th century. Today, Domestic Shorthairs are generally seen as the most popular ‘breed’ of cat for Aussies and Kiwis.
Health conditions that can affect this breed
Thanks to their mixed genetics, Domestic Shorthairs are generally pretty healthy cats. However, like all breeds, they can be prone to certain conditions:
- Kidney disease (more common in older cats)
- Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid gland)
- Arthritis (can affect ageing joints over time)
- Dental disease
- Obesity (they love food but aren’t overly active)
Regular vet check-ups and care can help manage these conditions and keep your Domestic Shorthair healthy.
Food and exercise
Like a lot of breeds, these hunting masters love to eat. Regular protein-rich meals will keep them happy but avoid overfeeding them as excess weight can put pressure on their frame.
Because they are naturally curious and playful, Domestic Shorthairs love a good puzzle feeder to give their mind a workout, as well as interactive toys and feathers. Encouraging them to climb, explore and stretch their muscles will help them keep their fitness levels up.
Grooming and maintenance
With short, dense coats Domestic Shorthairs are easy to maintain; a weekly brush is all they need to stay slinky and soft.
How to groom your Domestic Shorthair
- Coat type: Short, dense coat
- Fur: Brush weekly with a grooming mitt or brush
- Nails: trim every 3-4 weeks
- Ears: check weekly for dirt or wax build-up
- Eyes: wipe gently to clear any discharge
Training and space requirements
As you’d expect from a hunting cat that has survived thousands of years of domestication, Domestic Shorthairs are intelligent and quick to learn. They respond best to positive reinforcement with healthy treats, as well as gentle, consistent training, and can be taught basics commands.
While these cheeky felines thrive with both indoor and outdoor living, keeping them inside with a safe ‘catio’ or outdoor area will help protect the local wildlife. They are quite adaptable and can live in smaller spaces, as long as they get enough attention from their humans and have enough opportunities to climb and explore.
Best suited for…
These versatile, low-maintenance furballs suit almost any household, from nervous first-time owners to busy apartment dwellers. What matters most is that your Domestic Shorthair gets all the time, stimulation and cuddles it needs, plus numerous climbing challenges to keep their mischievousness at bay.
