Imagine a cat so captivating, it jumps right into your heart. Welcome to the world of LaPerm cats, a rare breed that has won the hearts of cat lovers everywhere¹. They come in many colours like white, black, and red, with a curly coat that’s truly unique.

In the early 1980s, LaPerm cats started in the United States. They’re known for being smart, playful, and forming strong family bonds². These cats weigh 6-9 pounds for females and 7-12 pounds for males. They can live up to 20 years, making them a long-lasting companion.

Key Takeaways

• LaPerm cats are known for their distinctive curly coats that come in a wide range of vibrant colours and patterns.
• This breed originated in the United States in the early 1980s and has quickly gained popularity for their intelligence, playfulness, and strong bonds with their human families.
• LaPerm cats have a medium to long body, with females typically weighing 6-8 pounds and males weighing 8-10 pounds.
• The breed was granted championship status by The International Cat Association (TICA) in 2003, solidifying its place as a unique and treasured feline companion.
• LaPerm cats are known for their hypoallergenic and low-shedding coats, making them a great choice for those with allergies.

Unveiling the Enchanting Origins of LaPerm Cats

The story of LaPerm cats started in the early 1980s in The Dalles, Oregon, USA³. A curious discovery was made when a barn cat named Curly had a kitten with a curly coat. This caught the owner’s attention. They were intrigued by this genetic mutation³.

The owner then began a mission to create a new breed. This led to the development of the LaPerm. It’s a story of nature’s surprises³.

LaPerm cats have unique curly coats. They can be short and plush or medium and flowing. This shows how diverse and adaptable cats can be³.

The Serendipitous Discovery of a Curly-Coated Kitten

A single event in the early 1980s led to the LaPerm’s origins³. A kitten with a curly coat was born to a barn cat named Curly. The owner saw its uniqueness and started a breeding program³.

Establishing a New Breed: The Birth of the LaPerm

The LaPerm breed was born from the owner’s dedication and the cat’s genetic mutation³. These cats come in many colours and patterns. They have a curly coat and are known for being affectionate and playful³.

They are recognized by major cat registries. However, they are still working to be recognized in competitive shows⁴.

The LaPerm’s story shows the beauty of feline diversity and the power of genetic mutations³. As they become more popular, their story reminds us of the wonders in the feline world⁴³.

The Distinctive Appearance of LaPerm Cats

LaPerm cats have a unique look that makes them stand out. They are medium-sized and muscular, with a rounded head and big ears⁵. Their curly and wavy coats are a key part of their charm.

Medium-Sized Muscular Build and Expressive Features

LaPerms have a strong, medium-sized body that shows off their agility⁵. Their heads are rounded, and their eyes are almond-shaped in various colours⁵. They also have round whisker pads that add to their expressive look⁵.

Coat Characteristics: Curly, Wavy, and Diverse Colour Patterns

The LaPerm’s coat is springy and can be curly or wavy⁵. It comes in many colours and patterns, like tabby and tortoiseshell⁵. The fur is thick and soft, making the cat look cuddly.

LaPerm cats have different coat types, classified as BC, BS, and BB⁵. This variety adds to their unique and attractive look.

“The LaPerm’s unique curly or wavy coat and diverse range of colours and patterns make it a truly captivating feline companion.”

Uncovering the Endearing Personality of LaPerm Cats

LaPerm cats are known for their captivating personalities. They are smart, full of energy, and very affectionate⁶. These cats live between 12-15 years and weigh 6-10 lbs⁶. They make great friends for those who want a loyal and lively pet.

LaPerm cats have curly coats and love to play⁶. They can grow up to 18 inches long and enjoy being active⁶. They love attention and form strong bonds with their families, showing lots of love and social skills⁶.

These cats are smart and get along well with kids and other pets⁶. They have low to medium shedding and are easy to groom⁶. This makes them a great choice for busy families.

LaPerm cats come in many coat colours and patterns⁶, and their eyes are very striking⁶. Whether they’re born with curls or get them later, they always stand out.

In short, LaPerm cats are amazing pets. They are smart, active, loving, and adaptable⁶. They are recognized by top cat groups like the CFA and TICA⁶. This makes them popular worldwide, winning the hearts of cat lovers everywhere.

“The LaPerm is cherished for its unique appearance and charming personality, contributing to its popularity among cat enthusiasts.”⁷

Caring for Your LaPerm: A Comprehensive Guide

Looking after your LaPerm cat is crucial for their happiness and health. It’s important to meet their nutritional needs and create a stimulating environment. Doing so will make your feline friend a joyful and healthy addition to your family⁸.

Nutritional Requirements and Feeding Recommendations

LaPerms do well on a diet of top-notch wet and dry cat food. They also enjoy treats like cooked fish, chicken, or turkey⁸. It’s vital to feed them at regular times and keep an eye on their food portions. This helps avoid health problems linked to weight⁹.

Creating an Enriching Environment for Your LaPerm

It’s important to satisfy your LaPerm’s natural instincts for their mind and body. Offer them a mix of toys, cat trees, and scratching posts. These items encourage them to play, climb, and scratch, keeping them happy and active⁸. Brushing them once a week also stops their curly coat from matting and keeps them clean⁹.

By focusing on your LaPerm’s specific needs, you can help them live a long, healthy life¹⁰.

“Caring for a LaPerm is a delightful experience, as their endearing personalities and low-shedding coats make them a truly rewarding companion.” – LaPerm Enthusiast

LaPerm: A Natural Breed with a Unique Genetic Mutation

The LaPerm is a fascinating cat breed known for its unique origin – a natural genetic mutation. This breed didn’t come from planned breeding. Instead, it started with a special curly coat in a farm cat colony in The Dalles, Oregon, in the early 1980s¹¹¹².

This chance event made the LaPerm a popular and sought-after breed. Now, it’s found in many countries, thanks to breeding efforts in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Japan, European countries, Taiwan, Russia, and others¹³.

The LaPerm’s curly coat comes from a natural genetic change, similar to the Oregon Rex from the 1960s. But the LaPerm has grown into its own breed, with different coat types like BB (Born Bald), BS (Born Straight), and BC (Born Curly)¹¹.

Many dedicated breeders have shaped the LaPerm breed. Linda and Richard Koehl, Solveig Pfleuger, Anne D Lawrence, Beth Fillman, and Dee Borgardt have worked hard to promote this unique cat¹³.

Today, the LaPerm is celebrated for its medium size, strong build, expressive face, and curly coat. It’s also known for being friendly, social, and playful. This makes it a great pet for families and individuals¹¹.

“The LaPerm is a natural breed that has captured the hearts of cat enthusiasts worldwide with its endearing appearance and charming personality.”

Adopting or Purchasing a LaPerm Cat

If you love the curly coats and friendly nature of LaPerm cats, you might want one in your home. These cats are popular in the United Kingdom, United States, and Italy, costing between £400 to £800¹⁴. Whether you adopt or buy a LaPerm, knowing the process and what your cat needs is key.

Locations of Popularity and Average Pricing

In the United States, United Kingdom, and Italy, LaPerms are very popular¹⁴. You can expect to pay £400 to £800 for a LaPerm cat, based on its age, gender, and the breeder¹⁴. Make sure to find a reputable breeder or shelter to get a healthy, friendly LaPerm.

Rescue Organisations and Pre-Adoption Checklist

For those looking to adopt a LaPerm, LaPerm Rescue in Oregon and Curly Cat Village in the Netherlands are good places to start¹⁵. Before adopting, check the cat’s health, vaccinations, and any medical history¹⁵. This ensures a smooth start and a strong bond with your new LaPerm.

Getting a LaPerm cat is both exciting and rewarding. But, it’s important to research and prepare for their care. Knowing about the breed’s popularity, cost, and rescue options helps you make a good choice. This ensures a happy life for your new pet¹⁵¹⁴.

Preparing for Your LaPerm’s Arrival: Essential Tips

Welcoming a LaPerm cat into your home is exciting and rewarding. To make their transition smooth, prepare your living space early¹⁶. LaPerms, a rare breed from the early 1980s¹⁶, are loved by major cat associations.

Start by making your home safe for your new cat. Hide electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects that could be a choking hazard¹⁷. Make sure you have all the essentials like food and water bowls, litter boxes, scratching posts, and toys for their playful nature¹⁷.

Get high-quality cat beds, trees, and window perches for your LaPerm. These give them places to explore, relax, and enjoy the sun¹⁷. LaPerms might have health issues like heart and kidney disease, so look after their health¹⁶.

If you’re thinking of getting a LaPerm, check out LaPerm Rescue in Oregon or Curly Cat Village in the Netherlands¹⁶. LaPerm cats cost between $400 to $800 USD¹⁶.

By getting your home ready and meeting your LaPerm’s needs, you’ll create a great home for your new cat.

Maintaining Your LaPerm’s Health: Key Considerations

Looking after a LaPerm cat means being very careful to keep them healthy. They are known for their special curly coat and lovely personality. But, it’s important to look after their health for a happy life together¹⁸.

LaPerms might face health problems like heart disease. It’s key to take them for regular vet check-ups to catch and treat any issues early¹⁸. They can also get kidney and dental problems, so regular care is vital¹⁸.

It’s vital to keep your LaPerm up-to-date with vaccines. This includes shots for rabies, panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, and feline leukaemia. These vaccines protect them from serious illnesses¹⁸.

Feeding your LaPerm a balanced diet is also important. Mix high-quality wet and dry food to meet their nutritional needs and keep them healthy¹⁸.

Even though LaPerms are generally healthy, regular vet visits are a must. They help spot and prevent health problems early¹⁸. By being proactive and caring for your LaPerm, you can make sure they live a long, happy, and healthy life with you¹⁸.

Conclusion

Having a LaPerm cat brings joy and rewards. They are affectionate, loyal, and playful, making great pets¹⁹. LaPerm cats were first recognized in 2002 by the International Cat Association²⁰. The Cat Fanciers’ Association gave them Championship status in 2008, showing their popularity.

Choosing a LaPerm means getting a cat with a beautiful look and a loving personality¹⁹. They grow to be 5-8 pounds and need regular grooming to keep their coat nice¹⁹. If you don’t groom them often, they might shed more.

LaPerm cats are affectionate, funny, smart, and playful¹⁹. They make great companions, enriching your life with their presence¹⁹. They like to be independent but also follow their owners around. Getting a LaPerm cat is a decision you won’t regret, as they make every day brighter.

Source Links

1. LaPerm – cfa – https://cfa.org/breed/laperm/
2. LaPerm Shorthair Breed – https://www.tica.org/breeds/browse-all-breeds?view=article&id=851:laperm-shorthair-breed&catid=79
3. LaPerm: Cat Breed Profile, Characteristics, and Care – https://www.pets-sweet.com/articles/laperm-cat-breed-profile-characteristics-and-care
4. Cat Breeds Blog – https://catbreedsblog.tumblr.com/
5. LaPerm | zooplus Magazine – https://www.zooplus.co.uk/magazine/cat/cat-breeds/laperm
6. LaPerm Cat Breed Profile – Lovable Short Curly Haired Cats – https://www.litter-robot.com/blog/laperm-cat/
7. KingPet: Dog and Cat Photo Contest – https://www.kingpet.com/breeds/cat/2027-Laperm
8. Exploring the Unique Traits of Curly-Coated LaPerm Cat Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide – https://medium.com/@catfoodsiteblog.thanh.qb2/exploring-the-unique-traits-of-curly-coated-laperm-cat-breeds-a-comprehensive-guide-ff5ed3dad12c
9. What To Know About a LaPerm – https://www.webmd.com/pets/cats/what-to-know-la-perm
10. LaPerm Cat Breed Guide – https://scrumbles.co.uk/blogs/news/laperm-cat
11. LaPerm FAQs | lapermcatclub – https://www.lapermcatclub.com/laperm-faqs
12. LaPerm – https://www.petmd.com/cat/breeds/c_ct_laperm
13. LaPerm – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LaPerm
14. LaPerm – Cats.com – https://cats.com/cat-breeds/laperm
15. LaPerm Cats Breed – Information, Temperament, Size & Price | Pets4Homes – https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/cat-breeds/laperm/
16. Discovering the Unique and Affectionate LaPerm Cat Breeds: Let’s Dive In! – https://medium.com/@catfoodsiteblog.thanh.qb/discovering-the-unique-and-affectionate-laperm-cat-breeds-lets-dive-in-9f584d801339
17. LaPerm Longhair Cats & Kittens for sale from Ethical Breeders – https://www.thepedigreepaws.com/kittens-for-sale/la-perm-longhair
18. Learn all about the LaPerm cat – Petrebels – https://www.petrebels.com/en/cat-breeds-laperm-cat/
19. Everything You Need to Know About the LaPerm Cat – https://www.petsmont.com/blogs/pets/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-laperm-cat
20. LaPerm Facts – Wisdom Panel™ Cat Breeds – https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-gb/cat-breeds/laperm