The LaPerm is a truly one-of-a-kind feline, instantly recognisable for its distinctive curly coat, which can range from tight ringlets to soft waves. Unlike most pedigree cats, this breed arose from a spontaneous mutation, making it a natural marvel in the feline world!
Known for their playful and affectionate nature, LaPerms are incredibly intelligent, forming strong bonds with their human families. Their low-maintenance grooming needs and moderate energy levels make them an excellent choice for many cat lovers. If you’re after a cat that’s both quirky and loving, the LaPerm might just be your perfect match!
The LaPerm’s origins are as fascinating as their appearance. This breed emerged completely by chance in the 1980s on a farm in Oregon, USA. A barn cat named Curly gave birth to a kitten that was born completely bald – an unusual sight! However, as the kitten grew, it developed a soft, curly coat, unlike anything seen before. This unique trait was passed down to future generations, leading to the development of the LaPerm breed.
🐾 Developed from a spontaneous genetic mutation
🐾 First appeared in Oregon, USA, in the 1980s
🐾 Named after their naturally occurring “perm”-like coat
🐾 Recognised as an official breed in the 1990s
🐾 Now adored by cat lovers worldwide
LaPerms aren’t just about looks – they’ve got big personalities to match their luxurious curls! These cats are highly intelligent, affectionate, and love human interaction.
If you’re after a cat that enjoys following you around, playing fetch, or curling up on your lap for a snooze, the LaPerm is a fantastic choice.
✨ Affectionate & Loyal – LaPerms form deep bonds with their owners. They are known to follow their humans from room to room, much like a dog!
✨ Playful & Curious – These kitties are always on the lookout for fun and games, whether it’s chasing a toy or solving a puzzle feeder.
✨ Moderately Vocal – While not as chatty as Siamese cats, they enjoy “talking” to their humans with soft, gentle meows.
✨ Highly Adaptable – Whether you live in a flat or a house, LaPerms thrive in various environments as long as they get plenty of attention.
LaPerms are small to medium-sized cats with slender yet muscular bodies. Their most striking feature is, of course, their curly coat, which comes in a variety of colours and patterns.
Some have tight corkscrew curls, while others boast loose waves, but all LaPerms have that signature soft, bouncy texture.
🐾 Small to medium size
🐾 Slender, athletic build
🐾 Distinctive curly coat – ranges from ringlets to waves
🐾 Variety of coat colours and patterns
🐾 Large, expressive almond-shaped eyes
LaPerms are generally a healthy breed, thanks to their natural origins. However, responsible breeders screen for potential genetic conditions. To keep your LaPerm in top shape, ensure they receive regular vet check-ups, a nutritious diet, and plenty of exercise.
✅ No breed-specific health concerns
✅ Routine vet visits recommended
✅ Maintain a healthy diet & active lifestyle
LaPerms are fantastic family pets, known for their gentle and loving nature. They are great with children, provided they are treated with respect. They also get along well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs, though they may prefer to be the centre of attention!
🐾 Excellent with families, singles, and seniors
🐾 Great with respectful children
🐾 Can coexist with other pets when introduced properly
🐾 Loves attention and human companionship
LaPerms are best suited for indoor living. Their friendly nature makes them vulnerable to theft, and keeping them inside protects them from common outdoor dangers. However, they love a bit of adventure, so consider a secure garden or catio for safe outdoor time.
✅ Ideal as indoor cats
✅ Protected from outdoor hazards
✅ Supervised outdoor access is an option
Despite their curls, LaPerms have low grooming needs! Their coat doesn’t mat easily, but a weekly comb-through helps keep it looking its best.
✅ Weekly brushing to prevent tangles
✅ Bathing rarely needed
✅ Regular nail trimming & dental care
A balanced diet is crucial for LaPerms to maintain their health and well-being. High-quality cat food, whether wet or dry, should be the foundation of their diet, providing essential nutrients and vitamins.
Portion control is important to prevent obesity, as LaPerms can be prone to weight gain if overfed. Fresh water should always be available to ensure adequate hydration.
Occasional treats can be given in moderation, but should not make up a significant portion of their diet. It’s also essential to choose cat food appropriate for their age and activity level, as kittens, adults, and seniors have different nutritional needs.
High-quality cat food (wet or dry)
Portion control to prevent obesity
Fresh water always available
Occasional treats in moderation
Choose food appropriate for age and activity level
LaPerms originated from a barn cat with curly fur.
They are known for their very unique coat.
LaPerms Are known to have the personality of a dog.
The LaPerms are relatively rare, and most people have not heard of them.
The cat loves attention.
While no cat is 100% hypoallergenic, some allergy sufferers tolerate LaPerms better due to lower shedding.
With proper care, they typically live 12-15 years.
Minimal shedding! Their curly coats trap loose hairs, reducing shedding around the home.
Cornish Rex: Share short, curly fur.
Devon Rex: Share unique fur.
Selkirk Rex: Share curly coat in all lengths.
Balinese: Share long fur that requires basic up-keep.
Russian Blue: Share elegant nature.
Siamese: Share great temperament.
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
The team at Cat Mad are lifelong cat enthusiasts and regularly give cats loving homes through fostering and adoption. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience caring for cats of all breeds and temperaments, we share our knowledge and insights to help cat owners provide the best possible care for their furry friends.
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