qT=2&tQ=American Shorthairs are extremely affectionate cats and seem to enjoy cuddling with their owners.&tC=True|False&cC=2&fB=They are certainly family-oriented pets, and well known for their gentle demeanor around children. But American Shorthairs are not cuddly cats. Years of tough farm work and hard living ensured that.<br><br>They are known as “four-on-the-floor” cats. That is, American Shorthairs prefer to get around on their own. They seem to enjoy the family environment but demand independence, and do not like to be carried and cuddled.