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Best Pet Insurance for American Shorthairs

medium breed15–20 years lifespan~$650/yr vet costs

The American Shorthair is the original American cat — descended from working cats that came to North America with early European settlers and developed into a distinct breed through natural selection for health, resilience, and pest-control ability. Unlike many pedigreed cats bred primarily for appearance, American Shorthairs retain significant genetic diversity and the health benefits that come with it. They are medium-sized, muscular cats with round faces, calm temperaments, and remarkable longevity. American Shorthairs are adaptable, gentle with children, and relatively low-maintenance. They are ideal family cats that balance affection with independence. Their health profile is among the best of any pedigreed cat, making insurance less critical but still valuable given their exceptional lifespans.

Best Pet Insurance for American Shorthairs (Ranked)

🏆
EmbraceBest match for American Shorthairs
97
/ 100
★★★★★
4.7(18,420 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more

Score Breakdown

Condition Coverage
40% weight100
Price & Value
25% weight100
No Breed Exclusions
20% weight100
Customer Rating
15% weight80
Overall Score97 / 100
Visit EmbraceFull Review
#2
97
/ 100
★★★★★
4.7(39,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$90
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period15 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit Healthy PawsFull Review
#3
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(22,100 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit LemonadeFull Review
See All 31 Providers Ranked for American Shorthairs →

American Shorthair Health Risks & Conditions

Understanding your American Shorthair's specific health risks helps you choose the right coverage.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)

moderate risk

American Shorthairs have moderate HCM prevalence. The breed's genetic diversity (compared to more closed breeds) provides some protection, but HCM still occurs at meaningful rates. Annual cardiac screening from age 5 onward ($300–$600) is recommended. Cardiac medications for managed HCM cost $50–$200/month.

Treatment cost:$600–$5,000

Dental Disease

moderate risk

American Shorthairs have average domestic cat susceptibility to periodontal disease and tooth resorption. Annual professional dental cleanings ($400–$800) from age 3–4 onward are recommended. Their typical robust health makes dental care one of the primary veterinary cost drivers.

Treatment cost:$400–$1,800

Obesity

moderate risk

American Shorthairs have moderate obesity risk, particularly after neutering and in indoor-only environments. Weight management through portion control and interactive enrichment prevents the majority of cases. Prescription weight management diets cost $600–$900/year if needed.

Treatment cost:$200–$1,200

Hyperthyroidism

low risk

Age-related hyperthyroidism is common across all cat breeds and American Shorthairs' longevity (frequently 15–20 years) means cumulative risk is significant. Annual senior bloodwork from age 8 ($200–$400) detects thyroid disease early. Treatment options: daily methimazole ($50–$80/month), radioiodine ($1,500–$2,000 one-time), or surgery.

Treatment cost:$400–$5,000

Chronic Kidney Disease

moderate risk

CKD is common in all aging cats and American Shorthairs' long lifespans mean significant CKD risk in later life. Regular senior wellness monitoring (blood and urine panels, $200–$400/year from age 7 onward) enables early detection. Managed CKD costs $400–$2,000/year depending on stage.

Treatment cost:$400–$3,000

What to Look for in American Shorthair Pet Insurance

American Shorthairs are among the healthiest pedigreed cats — their genetic diversity provides resilience unavailable in more closed breeds. However, their exceptional longevity (15–20 years) means lifetime insurance costs are significant even for a healthy cat. Look for no-upper-age renewal policies, HCM coverage, good senior care benefits, and reasonable premiums for a healthy breed. Top picks: Healthy Paws (affordable unlimited, ideal for generally healthy breeds), Figo (comprehensive at competitive rates), Embrace (good chronic disease coverage for the long haul).

American Shorthair Quick Stats

📅
15–20 years
Life expectancy
💰
$650/yr
Avg vet costs
📊
#10
Most popular
⚠️
5
Key health risks

Common American Shorthair Health Conditions

⚠️ hypertrophic cardiomyopathy⚠️ dental disease⚠️ obesity⚠️ hyperthyroidism⚠️ chronic kidney disease

All Providers Ranked for American Shorthairs

#4
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(31,200 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit Pets BestFull Review
#5
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(11,300 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$25–$90
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period15 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit FetchFull Review
#6
95
/ 100
★★★★★
4.5(7,400 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$30–$100
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement80%, 90%
Waiting period14 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit PumpkinFull Review
#7
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(9,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit SpotFull Review
#8
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(14,600 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$30–$120
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement90%
Waiting period5 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit TrupanionFull Review
#9
94
/ 100
★★★★★
4.4(15,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit MetLifeFull Review
#10
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(25,600 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit ASPCAFull Review
#11
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(9,600 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
Waiting period1 day (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit FigoFull Review
#12
93
/ 100
★★★★★
4.3(3,100 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit AnimaliaFull Review
#13
92
/ 100
★★★★★
4.2(2,400 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$60
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit KanguroFull Review
#14
92
/ 100
★★★★★
4.2(3,600 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit Physicians MutualFull Review
#15
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(12,900 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✓Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$25–$100
Annual limitUnlimited (whole pet)
Reimbursement50%, 70%, 90%
Waiting period14 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit NationwideFull Review
#16
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(4,200 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit OdieFull Review
#17
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(3,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit Prudent PetFull Review
#18
91
/ 100
★★★★★
4.1(3,200 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$16–$60
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit TotoFull Review
#19
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(8,200 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$75
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit AKCFull Review
#20
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(5,600 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit CarePlusFull Review
#21
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(6,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$70
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit PetPartnersFull Review
#22
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(2,900 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$17–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit TrustedPalsFull Review
#23
90
/ 100
★★★★★
4(5,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$20–$80
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement100%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit WagmoFull Review
#24
89
/ 100
★★★★★
3.9(1,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$18–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit DoggoFull Review
#25
89
/ 100
★★★★★
3.9(4,500 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit PetPremiumFull Review
#26
88
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(900 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$55
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period3 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit PawdarlingFull Review
#27
87
/ 100
★★★★★
3.7(4,100 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✓Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$65
Annual limitUp to Unlimited
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit HartvilleFull Review
#28
87
/ 100
★★★★★
3.7(1,200 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✗Hereditary
✓Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$45
Annual limit$10,000
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit NibblesFull Review
#29
85
/ 100
★★★★★
3.6(4,800 reviews)

Excellent match for American Shorthairs. Covers 5 of 5 key health risks with competitive pricing.

✓Hereditary
✓Cancer
✓Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$15–$60
Annual limit$10,000
Reimbursement70%, 80%, 90%
Waiting period2 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

hypertrophic cardiomyopathydental diseaseobesityhyperthyroidism+1 more
Visit 24PetprotectFull Review
#30
48
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(1,100 reviews)

Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for American Shorthairs.

✗Hereditary
✗Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✓No Exclusions
Monthly cost$8–$35
Annual limit$5,000
Reimbursement80%, 90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)
Visit SpokkFull Review
#31
44
/ 100
★★★★★
3.8(2,200 reviews)

Consider alternatives with stronger hereditary condition coverage for American Shorthairs.

✗Hereditary
✓Cancer
✗Orthopedic
✗Dental
✗Exam Fees
✗No Exclusions
Monthly cost$10–$45
Annual limit$7,000
Reimbursement90%
Waiting period0 days (accident)

Covers your breed's key risks:

obesity
Not covered: hypertrophic cardiomyopathyNot covered: dental disease
Visit Companion ProtectFull Review

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