The American Shorthair is America's own breed, whose ancestors came to North America with early settlers from Europe. Working cats flourished along with their pioneer owners and eventually established themselves as the native North American shorthaired cat. In the 20th century, foreign breeds imported to the United States, both Longhairs and Siamese interbred with native shorthaired cats, producing kittens with varied coat lengths, body styles, color and temperament. The Cat Fanciers' Association chose to officially recognize this lovely cat as one of its first five registered breeds in 1906. Originally known as the Domestic Shorthair, the breed was renamed "American Shorthair" in 1966 to represent its American character and to differentiate it from any other shorthaired breeds. The name "American Shorthair" also reinforces the idea that our native North American shorthaired cat is distinctly different from what may be found in streets, neighborhoods and barnyards. By chance, a non-pedigreed shorthaired cat might resemble an American Shorthair, just as another random-bred cat might look like a Siamese, Persian or Maine Coon. The difference, however, is that a pedigreed cat can consistently produce kittens of the same physical conformation, coat quality, and temperament, while a random-bred cat cannot. The American Shorthair has made steady progress in the show ring. American Shorthairs are often selected as "Best Cat in Show," and each year more than a hundred become Grand Champions, Grand Premiers and Distinguished Merit cats, as well as regional and national level winners. American Shorthairs are low-maintenance cats. The most well-known American Shorthair color today is the silver tabby, with dense black markings set on a sterling silver background.