If you are used to dogs shedding, I can tell you that what a cat sheds is nothing compared to dogs. I have 3 cats and 3 dogs, and when I pick up dog hair I often have enough hair to equal another huge dog!

Even short-haired cats can fool you though - my Bo has a thick coat, and sheds almost constantly. You can just be petting him and the fur will waft up all around, like a cloud. He needs to be brushed often, otherwise he'll get mats.