The LaPerm is a relatively new and rare domestic cat breed known for its curly coat. This breed originated in the United States and is recognized by major cat registries. Medium-sized cats with a muscular build and come in many colors and patterns. They are intelligent, active cats that bond strongly with their families.
Introduction The LaPerm Cat Breeds
The LaPerm cat breed was first discovered in the early 1980s in Oregon, United States. A curly-coated kitten was born to a barn cat, and her owner was intrigued by the unique coat. She worked to establish this new curly coated breed by breeding the original cat. Recognized by major cat associations. These affectionate, playful cats make wonderful family pets.
Affectionate with Family: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Amount of Shedding: ⭐⭐
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Potential for Playfulness: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tendency to Vocalize: ⭐⭐
Kid-Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Friendly Toward Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐
Easy to Groom: ⭐⭐
Intelligence: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pet Friendly: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Appearance: Medium-sized muscular build, rounded head, large ears. Coat is thick, soft, curly or wavy.
- Characteristics: Intelligent, active, athletic cats that bond closely with families. Enjoy playing and being lap cats.
- Popularity: Rare breed, originated in the 1980s in the United States.
- Temperament: Affectionate, loyal and social. Good with children and other pets.
- Lifespan: 12-15 years.
- Coat color: Come in many colors and patterns including tabby, tortoiseshell, bi-color, solid.
- Origins: Natural breed that originated from a spontaneous genetic mutation in one barn cat. Not a mixed breed.
How to Take Care of a LaPerm Cat
Food:
- High-quality cat food, both wet and dry. LaPerms need plenty of protein.
- Occasional treats of cooked fish, chicken, turkey.
- Always provide fresh, clean drinking water.
Environment:
- Lots of toys and cat trees for climbing and playing.
- Scratching posts to satisfy scratching instinct.
- Litter boxes – provide one per cat plus one extra.
Grooming:
- Weekly brushing to prevent matts in curly coat.
- Trim nails every 2-3 weeks.
- Check ears and teeth regularly.
- Care methods: Give your LaPerm plenty of playtime, an enriched environment, and affection. They thrive on human interaction.
How to Adopt/Buy a LaPerm Cat
- Locations of popularity: United States, United Kingdom, Italy.
- Average price: $400 to $800 USD.
- Rescue organizations: LaPerm Rescue (Oregon), Curly Cat Village (Netherlands).
What to check before adoption:
- General health: Active, bright eyes, healthy skin/coat.
- Vaccine status: Fully vaccinated per veterinary guidelines.
- Medical history: Review any past or current medical issues.
Preparing for a LaPerm Cat
Prepare food, litter box, scratching posts, toys before bringing kitty home. Cat-proof the house by securing chemicals, hiding cords, etc.
Make a comfortable space for your LaPerm with beds, cat trees, window perches. Give them vertical space to climb.
- Essential equipment: premium food, water/food bowls, litter box and scoop, scratching posts, cat toys, grooming tools, cat carrier.
- Common health issues: heart disease, kidney disease, dental disease. Annual vet exams help detect issues early.
- Essential vaccines: rabies, panleukopenia, calicivirus, rhinotracheitis, feline leukemia.
Naming Your LaPerm Cat
Choose a friendly, upbeat name that is easy to say and remember. Some ideas: Lucky, Leo, Luna, Lily, Louie, Link.
Other popular names: Calvin, Cooper, Charlie, Cleo, Callie, Clover, Cosmo.
Do LaPerm cats like going out rather than staying home?
Content staying indoors as long as they have plenty of toys and activities. Outdoor access should be limited for their safety.
Is a LaPerm cat a smart cat?
Yes, highly intelligent and can learn tricks or play games easily. They need mental stimulation.
How many types of LaPerm cats are there?
There is only one breed. But they come in many coat colors/patterns.
How to stop a LaPerm cat from biting?
Redirect biting behavior with toys. Say “no” firmly and ignore them for a bit. Reward good behavior with treats and praise.
How to stop a LaPerm cat from scratching?
Provide acceptable scratching posts. Use catnip spray to entice them. Cover furniture with sheets or double-sided tape. Trim nails regularly.
How to socialize and raise a friendly LaPerm cat?
Socialize kittens early and often. Introduce new sights, sounds, people positively. Reward calm, friendly behavior.
How to train your LaPerm cat?
Intelligent and take well to clicker training. Use treats and consistency to train basic commands.
How often should a LaPerm cat see the vet?
Annual exams are recommended. Senior cats (7+) should visit the vet twice yearly.
Are cats good family pets?
Yes, make affectionate family cats. They enjoy kids and thrive on human interaction.
Are cats good with children?
Yes, with proper supervision. playful, patient and tolerant of children.
Are LaPerms good with other animals?
Usually yes, though proper introductions are important. Their friendly nature makes them get along well with dogs/other cats.
Can LaPerm cats cause allergies?
No, their curly coats are low-shedding and produce less allergen. But individuals with cat allergies should still spend time with the breed before adopting.
Are LaPerm cats ferocious?
No, have sweet, friendly personalities. They are not aggressive or prone to biting/scratching.
Do LaPerms have hair loss problems?
No, their curly coats are generally easy to maintain with weekly brushing. Significant hair loss is uncommon.
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