Domestic Medium Hair is a coat description rather than a breed. It covers mixed-ancestry cats whose fur falls between short and long, often with a plumed tail, tufts between the toes and a soft undercoat. They come in every color and pattern, and most are medium-sized and sturdy, typically weighing 6 to 14 pounds and living 12 to 18 years.
Because ancestry is mixed, personality and health vary from cat to cat, so meeting a cat tells you more than its coat does. Indoor living suits these cats well in Salem, where winters are long. The fuller coat mostly means extra brushing, especially during spring and fall shedding, plus occasional checks for hairballs and mats. Regular vet visits, dental care and weight control matter more than any label.