How Much Should an American Shorthair Cat Weigh?
Let’s be honest. If my cat could read, she’d be deeply offended by this topic. Talking about a lady’s weight? Rude. But since she’s currently asleep in a laundry basket, snoring like an old man, I think we’re safe.
If you’ve got an American Shorthair cat or you’re planning to bring one home, this guide will help you figure out what that number on the scale should say—and when it’s time to cut back on the tuna treats.
Ideal Weight Range
Most healthy adult American Shorthair cats weigh between:
| Sex | Weight Range |
|---|---|
| Female Cats | 8 to 12 pounds |
| Male Cats | 11 to 15 pounds |
Of course, some may fall a bit outside this range. Just like humans, some are naturally bigger or smaller. But if your cat starts looking like a furry ottoman, we might have a problem.
By the way, if you're into American Shorthair stuff, you’ll wanna check this one out: Are Tabby Cats American Shorthair?
Kittens? Whole Different Story
Don’t panic if your kitten doesn’t even hit the 5-pound mark. They’re still growing.
Here’s a rough idea:
- 2 months old: 2 pounds
- 4 months old: 4 to 5 pounds
- 6 months old: 6 to 8 pounds
- 1 year old: close to full adult weight
Once they hit their first birthday, they’re basically full-sized. Any growth after that is mostly fluff—or snacks.
Oh, and speaking of American Shorthair, here’s another one you might like: How Much Are American Shorthair Cats?
How to Know If Your Cat’s Weight Is Healthy
Here’s how I check my own cat. I call it the “squish test.”
- Feel the ribs: You should be able to feel them but not see them. If you can’t feel them at all, your cat’s got some extra padding.
- Look from above: You should see a waistline. If your cat’s shaped like a sausage, time to reassess.
- Check the belly: A little pouch is normal. A swinging hammock? Not so much.
Also, just throwing this in—this American Shorthair post is a fun read too: American Shorthair vs Domestic Shorthair: What’s the Actual Difference?
What Makes Them Gain Weight?
- Free feeding: I used to leave food out all day. My cat treated it like an all-you-can-eat buffet.
- Too many treats: Those little biscuits add up fast. Especially when she gives me the “I haven’t eaten in years” look.
- No exercise: American Shorthairs aren’t the most hyper breed. They’d rather nap on the windowsill than run laps.
Simple Ways to Keep Their Weight in Check
- Scheduled feeding: Two meals a day. That’s it. (And don’t fall for the begging.)
- Playtime: I invested in a laser pointer. She now believes there’s a red dot conspiracy and exercises daily.
- Switch to high-protein, low-carb food: Some commercial foods are like kitty junk food. Watch those labels.
- Weigh-ins: Step on the scale with your cat, then without. Subtract. Magic. (Just don’t do it while holding laundry. Been there.)
Is My Cat Overweight or Just Fluffy?
This is the million-dollar question. I once defended my cat’s extra pounds by calling her “big-boned.” My vet called it “wishful thinking.”
If you’re unsure, here’s a rough visual:
- Healthy cat: Trim waist, visible tummy tuck, no bulging sides.
- Overweight cat: Round sides, no waist, waddles instead of walks.
- Obese cat: Can’t groom properly, struggles to jump, often out of breath (yes, that’s a thing).
When to Talk to the Vet
If your cat is way over (or under) the ideal range and you’re doing all the right things—call the vet. Weight changes can also mean health issues like diabetes, thyroid problems, or something more serious.
My vet once said, “If your cat suddenly gets skinny without trying, that’s a red flag. If your cat gets fat without trying… well, that’s more common.”
Final Thoughts From a Cat-Human
My American Shorthair once sat on the remote and accidentally turned on a documentary about cheetahs. She stared at the screen, then stared at her belly. I swear I saw a moment of reflection.
Truth is, you don’t need your cat to be model-thin. You just want them healthy, comfy, and able to do cat things like zoomies at 3 a.m. and knocking over your water glass for no reason.
Keep an eye on the scale, trust your instincts, and remember—some extra fluff is fine. But if your American Shorthair is starting to resemble a beach ball with whiskers, maybe skip the third snack of the day.
