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LaPerm
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Physical Characteristics
- Coat ranges from ringlet-type curls to long corkscrew curls
- The tightest curls occur on the underside of the cat, on the throat area and at the base of the ears
- Two varieties: longhair and shorthair
- The longhair usually has a curly plumed tail and often exhibits a full, curly ruff
- The coat is moderately soft in texture
- Comes in many colors and coat patterns
Temperament
- Gentle, affectionate, active, curious
- Content as a lap cat
- Needs human companionship
Medical Conditions
- Healthy breed
- Needs boosters by 12 weeks old
- Annual vet visit for checkups is important
While the listed ailments may be common in this breed, not all members of the breed suffer from these conditions. Responsible breeders screen for orthopedic and genetic diseases.
At Home
- Does best indoors
- Needs sufficient scratching device
- Declawing is not recommended
- Kittens are available after 12-16 weeks
Grooming
- Trim nails regularly
Other Facts
- The breed name, 'LaPerm,' means wavy or rippled
- Some kittens can be born hairless, but most have short, wavy hair or straight hair at birth
- Coat variations throughout the life of a LaPerm range from molting that can leave a sparse, thin coat for life to a possible full coat after neutering or spaying
Breed History
- The kitten that exhibited the traits of the original mutation that has formed the basis for the LaPerm breed sprang from strong, healthy, domestic 'barn-cat' stock
- In 1982, on an Oregon farm located near the ancient hunting and fishing grounds of the Wishram Indians, a litter of six kittens was born to a barn cat
- One of these kittens had no hair and within eight weeks grew very soft, curly hair
- There was no intention to selectively breed the rare cat, but the bald kittens increased in the random bred litters and the owner began to seek additional information about these unusual cats
For more information about this breed and breeder referral contacts, please visit the Harrier Club of America For breed rescue opportunities, visit HCA Rescue
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