The American Shorthair Cat is America's own breed, whose ancestors came to North America with early settlers from Europe. Records indicate that the Mayflower carried several of these cats to hunt rats. It's known for its longevity, robust health, good looks, quiet disposition, and amiability with children and dogs. Originally known as the Domestic Shorthair, the breed was renamed the American Shorthair in 1966 to better represent its all American character and to differentiate it from any other shorthair breed. This breed has made steady progress in the show ring and is recognized in more than eighty different patterns, with the silver tabby being the most well known American Shorthair color.