Some American Shorthair cats like to be held, while others might tolerate being held for short periods. However, like many cats, American Shorthairs value their independence and might prefer to be near their pet parents rather than being held. They might show affection in other ways, such as sitting beside you or rubbing against your legs. It’s important to respect your cat’s boundaries and preferences regarding physical contact — forcing them with too much handling can cause stress or discomfort.