How Big Do American Shorthair Cats Get?
The first time I met my American Shorthair cat, he fit in the palm of my hand. Six months later, he thought my lap was his throne. I don’t know what they’re feeding these cats in the womb, but these fluff tanks grow fast—and they fill out.
If you’re here wondering how big American Shorthair cats really get, keep reading. I’ll break it down by numbers, gender, age, and that one stage where they just won’t stop eating.
Average Size of an American Shorthair
Let’s start with the basics. These cats are not tiny ballerinas. They are more like retired linebackers who enjoy sunbeams and napping.
| Category | Males | Females |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11–15 pounds | 8–12 pounds |
| Length (nose to tail) | Up to 16 inches | 12–14 inches |
| Height (floor to shoulder) | Around 10–12 inches | Around 8–10 inches |
This is what we call “medium” in the cat world, but really, they’re pretty solid. My boy has the build of a bowling ball that meows.
By the way, if you're into American Shorthair stuff, you’ll wanna check this one out: Are Tabby Cats American Shorthair?
Growth Timeline (From Puffball to Sofa Overlord)
0–3 months:
They start off small. Like, “awww”-every-hour kind of small. But don’t be fooled. They gain weight faster than your fridge loses leftovers.
3–6 months:
Here comes the “teenager” energy. They’re leaner, longer, and bounce off walls at 3 a.m.
6–12 months:
They look adult-ish but still have a bit of lanky goofiness. Muscle mass starts to build.
1–3 years:
This is the final form. American Shorthairs fill out. Their bodies become more muscular, their heads broaden (especially in males), and they just… take up more space.
Mine claimed the corner of the bed like a furry anchor. Try moving him? Good luck.
Oh, and speaking of American Shorthair, here’s another one you might like: How Much Should an American Shorthair Cat Weigh?
Are Males Bigger Than Females?
Oh yes. And they know it.
Males usually outweigh the ladies by 2–4 pounds and tend to have broader heads and chests. If cats had football teams, the males would be defensive linemen. The females? Probably sleek midfielders—still powerful, but a bit more graceful.
Also, just throwing this in—this American Shorthair post is a fun read too: How Much Are American Shorthair Cats?
Do American Shorthairs Get Fat?
Not unless you feed them like a raccoon in a buffet.
They’re naturally stocky, but if you overdo the treats and underdo the playtime, they’ll turn into chonky loaves. And while a chunky cat is cute, it’s not great for their joints or health.
I once had to cut back on my cat’s 4th breakfast. He started giving me the look. You know the one—”I’m starving, you monster.” But we made it through.
Pro Tip:
Use puzzle feeders or toss kibbles across the floor to make them work a little. Keeps them slim and smug.
How Do They Compare to Other Cats?
Here’s a quick comparison with a few other popular breeds:
| Breed | Average Weight |
|---|---|
| American Shorthair | 8–15 lbs |
| Siamese | 6–10 lbs |
| Maine Coon | 12–20 lbs |
| British Shorthair | 9–17 lbs |
So yes, they’re bigger than your sleek Siamese, but not quite as giant as those Maine Coons who look like they run underground kingdoms.
Final Thoughts From a Shorthair Roommate
Living with an American Shorthair means getting used to a cat that can block your laptop, fit awkwardly into shoeboxes, and somehow weigh more than he looks.
They’re not giant cats—but they’re definitely not dainty.
They’re sturdy, lovable, and yes, maybe a little full of themselves.
Mine has taken over the couch and the remote. I don’t argue with him anymore. He’s 14 pounds of boss energy, and I respect that.
