What does it mean???

So there’s this guy I’m with. A couple days ago he told me he was really sick, so this morning I decided to message him “Good morning baby....hope you’re feeling a lil better. Drink some orange juice it’ll help a lot and take some medicine. If you can take a hot ass shower and take a good ass nap do so.” He responded with “Awwe thanks shawty...appreciate it❤️❤️”

What does shawty mean in his context?

Is it like saying thanks baby?

When I would go to his place he would introduce me as his girl. It’s not the first time he’s called me shawty.