LaPerm Cat

America’s Curly-Coated and Charming Feline

1. Introduction to the Breed

The LaPerm, securing the #23 spot among the top cat breeds owned by Americans in 2024, is a curly-coated and charming feline renowned for its wavy fur and affectionate personality. Known for their unique, curly appearance and playful demeanor, LaPerms are ideal for owners seeking a friendly, low-maintenance companion. Their distinctive coat and sociable nature make them perfect for diverse households, from urban apartments to suburban homes, where their warmth and lively charm bring joy.

2. History of the Breed

Originating in the United States in the 1980s, the LaPerm breed began with a spontaneous genetic mutation in a farm cat in Oregon, producing a kitten with curly fur. Breeder Linda Koehl developed the breed by selectively breeding for the curly coat while maintaining health and temperament. Recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2000 and later by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), LaPerms gained popularity for their quirky look and friendly nature in cat shows and as family pets, their unique origin story adding to their appeal.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Typical Size and Weight: LaPerms are medium-sized, standing 8–10 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing 6–12 pounds (males) or 5–8 pounds (females), with a slender, balanced build.
• Coat and Color: Their coat, which can be short or semi-long, is wavy or curly with a soft, springy texture, in colors like tabby, solid, bicolor, or tortoiseshell. The coat sheds minimally and is low-maintenance.
• Distinctive Features: LaPerms have a rounded head, large, expressive eyes (often blue, green, or gold), and medium-sized, slightly flared ears. Their curly coat, whisker curls, and bushy tail enhance their distinctive, whimsical appearance.

4. Personality Traits

LaPerms are affectionate, playful, and curious, with a sociable personality that makes them excellent companions. They form strong bonds with owners, children, and familiar pets, enjoying interactive play and cuddles. Their soft vocalizations, like purrs or chirps, reflect their communicative but undemanding nature. LaPerms are intelligent and moderately energetic, suiting owners who can provide gentle stimulation to prevent boredom-driven behaviors like scratching or excessive exploration.

5. Care Requirements

• Exercise Needs: LaPerms need 30–45 minutes of daily play, including chasing toys, climbing low cat trees, or interactive games. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys or window perches satisfies their curious minds.
• Grooming Needs: Their curly coat requires gentle brushing 1–2 times per week to prevent matting and maintain texture, with extra care for semi-long coats. Regular ear cleaning, nail trimming, and dental care maintain health, as they’re prone to dental issues.
• Dietary Considerations: A high-protein diet supports their active lifestyle and coat health. Portion control prevents obesity, and foods with omega fatty acids reduce skin sensitivities. Fresh water is essential for their moderate energy.

6. Health and Lifespan

LaPerms have an average lifespan of 12–15 years. Common health issues include dental disease, patellar luxation, and potential skin sensitivities due to their unique coat. Regular vet checkups, dental cleanings, and a healthy lifestyle mitigate risks. Owners should monitor for dental discomfort, lameness, or skin irritation and ensure a balanced diet to support overall health. Genetic testing from breeders is less common but can address rare hereditary concerns, ensuring robust health.

7. Training and Socialization

LaPerms are intelligent and cooperative, responding well to positive reinforcement training with treats or play. They can learn tricks like “fetch” or “jump” due to their playful nature. Early socialization ensures comfort with strangers, children, and other pets, reducing shyness or territorial behavior. Teaching behaviors like using a scratching post or litter box habits is straightforward due to their adaptability. Interactive play or training prevents boredom-related behaviors like scratching or hiding.

8. Ideal Home Environment

LaPerms thrive in versatile homes with secure indoor spaces, ideal for urban apartments or suburban settings where they can play and relax. They suit families, singles, or seniors who enjoy moderate interaction and play. Low climbing structures, window perches, and cozy bedding satisfy their curious and affectionate needs. Owners should provide a stimulating environment with toys and scratching posts to channel their energy and prevent destructive behaviors, ensuring a nurturing setting for their sociable nature.

9. What’s the Best Toy for My LaPerm?

LaPerms enjoy toys that suit their playful, curious nature and moderate energy. Lightweight feather wands encourage chasing and pouncing, providing 15–20 minutes of interactive play to satisfy their hunting instincts. Small, durable balls for batting or chasing tap into their playful energy, ideal for 15–20 minute sessions in a secure space. Soft plush toys for wrestling mimic prey, perfect for 10–15 minute play bursts, with supervision to prevent tearing. Interactive puzzle toys with treat compartments engage their intelligence, keeping them occupied indoors for 15–20 minutes. Avoid small, easily swallowed toys to prevent choking. Rotate toys regularly and pair with gentle games for engagement.

10. Adoption and Breeder Tips

Choose breeders affiliated with TICA or CFA LaPerm breed clubs, ensuring health clearances for dental, knees, and skin conditions. Visit the breeder to assess kitten health, meet parents for temperament and coat insights, and confirm ethical practices, including socialization and clean facilities. Rescues like LaPerm-specific organizations or local shelters offer adoptable cats, often with known histories. Avoid unregulated breeders or pet stores, as LaPerms benefit from careful breeding to maintain health. Ask about genetic testing, socialization, and coat care to ensure a healthy, well-adjusted cat.