The LaPerm, a captivating and distinct breed within the world of felines, presents a unique combination of a curly coat, friendly demeanor, and an engaging personality that has won the hearts of cat enthusiasts globally.
Breed Overview
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | LaPerm |
| Scientific Name | Felis catus |
| Characteristic | Affectionate, Intelligent, Curious |
| Life Span | 12-15 years |
| Build | Medium, muscular |
| Average Weight | 5-10 lbs |
| Average Height | 8-10 inches |
| Coat Length | Short to long |
| Coat Colors | All colors and patterns |
| Coat Pattern | Curly |
| Eye colors | Green, Gold, Blue, Aqua |
| Hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Country of Origin | United States |
Physical Description
The LaPerm breed is instantly recognizable by its curly coat, ranging from tight ringlets to long corkscrew curls. This medium, muscular cat usually weighs between 5 to 10 lbs and stands at around 8 to 10 inches tall. The coat can be found in both short and long lengths, encompassing all possible colors and patterns, providing a wide variety of appearances within the breed.
Their ears are medium to large, wide at the base tapering to a cupped tip, often with tufts of fur extending from inside. The eyes are large, almond-shaped, and can come in shades of green, gold, blue, or aqua, adding to their expressive appearance.
A distinguishing feature of male and female LaPerms is primarily their size, with males typically being larger and more robust than females. Despite these differences, both genders share the soft, curly coat that the breed is known for.
Behavior and Temperament of the LaPerm
The LaPerm is renowned for its loving, gentle nature and shows a remarkable tendency towards being affectionate with its owners. This breed enjoys being in close proximity to their human counterparts, often seeking out laps or a spot next to them. What distinguishes LaPerms is their outgoing nature; they are keen to greet visitors with a curious and welcoming demeanor.
These cats exhibit an intelligent, curious personality, making them quick learners and engaging companions. They are known for their playful attitude, often showing a kitten-like zest for play well into adulthood. Their inquisitive nature drives them to explore their surroundings thoroughly but always in a manner that ensures they’re never far from their human family.
History and Origin
The LaPerm’s history traces back to a cherry farm in Oregon, USA, during the early 1980s. The first of the breed, a kitten born completely bald to a normal-coated mother, grew to develop a coat of soft, curly fur, unlike anything seen in the cat world before. Named Curly, this kitten became the progenitor of the LaPerm breed.
This mutation was found to be dominant, meaning that the gene responsible for the curly coat could be passed down efficiently. The breed’s development was methodical, ensuring a healthy gene pool by outcrossing to other breeds initially but later focusing on maintaining the breed’s unique characteristics. The LaPerm was officially recognized by The International Cat Association (TICA) in the late 1990s.
LaPerm Cat Care
Caring for a LaPerm involves routine grooming to manage their distinctive coat. While their curls can reduce shedding, regular brushing is recommended to prevent matting, especially for longer-coated individuals. Bathing can help define their curls but should not be overdone to avoid drying out their skin.
LaPerms are adaptable, content with both indoor and outdoor environments, though supervised outdoor access or secure cat enclosures are advised. They benefit from having space to climb and explore, as well as a variety of interactive toys to keep their minds stimulated.
Common Health Problems
LaPerms are generally healthy, but, like all breeds, they have predispositions to certain health issues:
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: A heart disease prevalent in some breeds, characterized by the thickening of the heart muscle.
- Kinked tail: A structural anomaly, often hereditary, resulting in a curved or kinked tail, though it generally does not impact the cat’s overall health.
- Sensitivity to anesthesia: Due to their distinctive muscular structure, certain breeds exhibit an increased sensitivity to anesthesia, necessitating careful management during surgical or diagnostic procedures.
Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection and management of potential health concerns.
Where to Adopt or Buy LaPerm
LaPerms are rarities in the cat world, making them somewhat challenging to find. Interested adopters should seek reputable breeders who adhere to ethical breeding practices. The cost can vary, generally ranging from $600 to $1200, reflecting the breed’s rare status and the costs associated with responsible breeding.
Diet and Nutrition
A balanced, high-quality diet is crucial for the LaPerm’s health. Preferences can vary among individuals, but all cats benefit from a diet that mimics their natural nutritional needs – high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Fresh, clean water should always be available, and treats should be given sparingly to prevent obesity.
Comparable Breeds
If you find the LaPerm intriguing, similar breeds worth exploring include:
- Cornish Rex: Features a unique, wavy coat and slender build akin to the Siamese.
- Devon Rex: With a similar coat to the Cornish Rex but slightly heavier build and shorter muzzle.
- Sphynx: Known for their hairless appearance and muscular tone, reminiscent of the Oriental Shorthair’s physique.
- Selkirk Rex: Boasts a curly coat, setting it apart, with a build that can be heavier, like some lines of the British Shorthair.
For more cat breed profiles, feel free to explore our extensive collection.
FAQ’s about LaPerm
Are LaPerm cats aggressive?
No, LaPerms are known for their gentle, affectionate nature, making them well-suited to families and multi-pet households.
Is LaPerm rare?
Yes, the LaPerm is considered a rare breed due to its unique coat and the specific genetic mutation responsible for it.
Are LaPerm cats talkative?
LaPerms can be moderately talkative, often chirping and trilling to communicate with their owners, though they are not excessively noisy.
Are LaPerm cats friendly?
Absolutely, LaPerms are exceptionally friendly and enjoy companionship, often seeking out human interaction and affection.
Are LaPerm cats smart?
Yes, LaPerms are intelligent and curious, capable of learning tricks and thriving in engaging, stimulating environments.