qT=2&tQ=There are over 80 accepted colors for the American Shorthair.&tC=True|False&cC=1&fB=Coats should be short and firm but may come in a variety of colors.<br><br>It is well known that an American Shorthair and common alley cat may sometimes look alike. But breeding allows the breeder to effectively produce a certain appearance in the cat, as well as a certain temperament and good health. An alley cat may be strong or beautiful or sweet like the American Shorthair but that is the result of chance not selection.