Domestic Shorthair (DSH) is not a breed — it's the catch-all term for any short-coated, mixed-breed cat. The vast majority of cats in Calgary rescues are DSH. They come in every imaginable color and pattern: tabby, tuxedo, calico, tortoiseshell, black, white, orange, grey, and every combination. Personalities range across the entire cat spectrum.
DSH cats tend to be hardy, healthy, and longer-lived than purebreds thanks to genetic diversity (the cat equivalent of "hybrid vigour"). They typically live 15 to 20 years with good care. Adoption fees are usually the lowest of any cat type — often $100 to $200 — because supply is high.
Because DSH covers such a wide range, the cat's individual personality matters more than the "breed." Read each cat's detailed profile, ask the foster home about temperament, and meet a few cats before deciding. The right DSH match is out there — usually faster than waiting for a specific purebred.
Showing 100 cats
Adeline
5 months • DOMESTIC SHORT HAIR
Maggie's Rescue
Angelo
11 years • Domestic Short Hair
Animal Welfare League NSW
Anna
1 Year 1 Month • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Ariel
1 Year 1 Month • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Ashton
5 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Baby Gingy
1 Year • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Bartholomew
6 years • DSH
Sydney Dogs and Cats Home
Beauty
10 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Berry
5 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Bill
3 Years 4 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Bindi
5 Years 1 Month • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Bingo
7 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Boo
10 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Buttercup
1 years • Domestic Short Hair
Animal Welfare League NSW
Caramel
1 years • Domestic Short Hair
Animal Welfare League NSW
Casserole
2 Months • Domestic Short Hair
RSPCA NSW
Domestic Shorthair Adoption FAQ
Is "Domestic Shorthair" a real breed?
No — it's a category, not a breed. DSH means "any cat with short fur and unknown/mixed parentage." Most rescue cats fall into this category. They have unique looks and personalities just like purebreds.
Are Domestic Shorthairs healthier than purebreds?
Generally yes. The genetic diversity of mixed-breed cats means fewer hereditary health issues. They typically live 15 to 20 years with routine vet care. Purebreds often have breed-specific health problems (Persians have flat-face issues, Maine Coons have heart concerns, etc.).
How much does a DSH cat cost to adopt in Calgary?
DSH adoption fees range from $100 to $200 at most Calgary rescues, including spay/neuter, vaccinations, microchip, and FIV/FeLV testing. MEOW Foundation, FRFA, and Calgary Humane Society all offer reduced fees for senior DSH cats and bonded pairs.
What's the difference between a tabby and a DSH?
Tabby is a coat pattern (the swirled or striped marking), not a breed. Most tabbies are DSH cats. Other DSH coat patterns include tuxedo (black and white), calico (orange/black/white tri-color), tortoiseshell (mottled black and orange), and solid colors.