LaPerm

Overview

Appearance

The LaPerm, much like its unusual moniker, is a delightful combination of whimsical charm and elegance. A medium-sized breed, a fully grown LaPerm cat typically measures between 8 to 10 inches in height, and can weigh anywhere from 6 to 10 pounds.

Their body structure is muscular yet slender, giving them a graceful silhouette. These cats possess a slightly arched back, which lends them a poised stance, reminiscent of a ballerina on pointe. One of LaPerm’s most striking features is their tail – it’s long, plume-like, and adorned with lusciously waved fur, bearing resemblance to a soft feather duster.

Looking at a LaPerm cat, you’d likely be drawn to their head – a modified wedge shape, gracefully tapered from the broad skull to the whisker pads. Topping this endearing face are medium to large-sized, broad-based ears, set wide on their head. The ears are furnished inside with tufts of hair that are quirky and appealing.

Their expressive eyes are almond-shaped, giving them a gentle and inviting gaze. The color of their eyes can range from a clear green, golden, or copper, to a rich blue or odd-eyed, which adds to their distinctive look.

Now, the pièce de résistance of the LaPerm breed is undoubtedly their unique coat. It features a loose, bouncy curl that has a light, airy texture to it. The degree of curl can vary, with some having ringlets and others, long corkscrew curls. This breed’s coat can come in all colors and patterns, making each LaPerm cat a true original.

Despite their regal appearance, LaPerm cats have an endearing, clownish expression, which often belies their gentle, affectionate nature. Their quirky looks, coupled with an engaging personality, make them not just a pet, but a delightful companion and an inseparable part of the family.

They are a visual treat with their unique physical attributes and their warm, expressive eyes, making them a favorite among cat enthusiasts.

So, the next time you see a fluffy, curly-coated feline with an air of elegance and a playful glint in their eyes, chances are, you’ve encountered the charming LaPerm cat breed.

Temperament

LaPerm cats are fascinating creatures, full of charm and character. When talking about their temperament, it is hard not to highlight their friendly and affectionate nature.

They’re known for being sociable, often seeking out human company, and are quick to establish strong bonds with their owners. These cats love to be involved, whether it’s lounging on your lap, joining you for a peaceful afternoon in the garden, or helping you sort out paperwork.

Beyond their love for companionship, LaPerms are intelligent and curious. They are fun-loving explorers, their curiosity piqued by the smallest of changes in their environment. A new piece of furniture or a different layout to their favorite room will find them exploring and adjusting to the new setup with surprising agility. If you’re looking for a partner in adventure, a LaPerm cat is your ideal companion.

In fact, their intelligence extends to problem-solving too. Notoriously adept at figuring things out, it’s not uncommon to find a LaPerm cat learning to open doors or drawers to satisfy their curiosity or find their favorite toy. This may require their owners to be a step ahead, ensuring that potentially dangerous items are well out of their reach.

But don’t let this intelligence fool you into thinking that LaPerms are not playful. In fact, they are quite the opposite. They love to play and are often known to initiate games with their owners.

Whether it’s chasing after a piece of string, pouncing on a toy mouse, or engaging in a round of fetch, LaPerms are always up for some fun. Their playful disposition extends well into their adulthood, making every day with them an entertaining experience.

LaPerms are also known to be very adaptable. They can easily adjust to different household situations and environments. This makes them an excellent choice for families, single-person households, or those who live in apartments. Their adaptable nature is particularly beneficial if you travel often, as they won’t be too perturbed by changes in their surroundings.

Despite their playful and adventurous streak, LaPerms are equally fond of their quiet time. They enjoy the comfort of a warm lap, often seeking out their owners for a snuggle. Their strong bonding with their human family means they are always ready for a cuddle, making them an excellent, comforting presence in any home.

Care

Taking care of a LaPerm cat is more than just a responsibility — it’s a journey filled with exciting chapters of grooming, play, exercise, and diet. Let’s delve into these aspects to ensure your feline friend stays healthy, happy, and as playful as ever.

Grooming

LaPerms are famed for their unique, curly coat, but did you know that it’s also incredibly easy to maintain? Their hair doesn’t mat easily, so a gentle combing or brushing session once a week is usually enough to keep their coat in tip-top shape.

Plus, it’s a great bonding experience! Be sure to check their ears and teeth regularly, too. Clean ears prevent infections, and good dental hygiene keeps that charming LaPerm smile bright.

Exercise and Play

Keeping a LaPerm entertained is a delightful task. These nimble felines love to explore and play. Regular play sessions not only fulfill their instinctual need to hunt and provide mental stimulation, but also ensure they get plenty of exercise. A simple laser pointer, a toy mouse, or even a crumpled piece of paper can turn into an exciting game. Remember, a played-out LaPerm is a happy LaPerm!

Diet and Nutrition

Feeding a LaPerm isn’t too complicated. Just like any other cat, they require a balanced diet rich in protein. Dry food, wet food, or a combination of both can work well. However, it’s essential to monitor their intake as overfeeding can lead to obesity. Also, each LaPerm is unique, so it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet about the best diet plan for your specific cat.

Health

LaPerms are generally robust and healthy cats, blessed with a life expectancy of around 10-15 years. However, being cognizant of potential health issues can go a long way in ensuring their well-being.

Dental Problems: Tooth decay and gum disease are common in many cat breeds, including LaPerms. Regular teeth cleaning can help prevent such issues.

Obesity: While LaPerms are naturally agile, overfeeding can lead to excess weight gain and associated health problems.

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM): This heart condition is found in all breeds of cats. Regular check-ups can help detect and manage it early.

Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): PKD is an inherited disease that can affect LaPerms. It causes cysts to develop in the kidneys, impairing their function.

Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease (FLUTD): FLUTD can lead to painful and frequent urination. It’s essential to watch for any signs of discomfort while your cat is using the litter box.

A healthy diet is key to keeping these health risks at bay. Regular portions of high-quality, protein-rich cat food can ensure your LaPerm gets all the necessary nutrients. Be mindful of their calorie intake to prevent obesity. Remember, each cat is an individual, so what works for one may not work for another.

Routine veterinary check-ups are invaluable. They can help spot potential health issues before they become severe. Regular vaccinations too can safeguard your LaPerm against various diseases.

History

The history of the LaPerm cat breed is as unique and intriguing as their curly coats. This breed’s story began in Oregon, USA in the early 1980s, and it truly is one of nature’s happy accidents.

A barn cat named Speedy gave birth to a litter of kittens, one of whom was a peculiar little one. This kitten was born hairless, but with time, she grew a wavy and soft coat, which her owner, Linda Koehl, described as looking like an “old lambswool sweater that had been shrunk”. The kitten was named “Curly” due to her unusual coat texture, and she was the first of her kind, the original LaPerm.

As more kittens with the same curly fur were born, Koehl realized she had a new breed on her hands. She named them “LaPerms” as a nod to the permanent wave hairstyle that they resembled.

Fast forward to 1995, The International Cat Association (TICA) officially recognized the LaPerm. This marked a significant milestone, as it was the first time this breed was formally acknowledged by a prestigious cat association.

But the journey to recognition didn’t end there. Another decade passed, and in 2008, the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), one of the world’s largest and most influential cat registries, finally accepted the LaPerm into its prestigious ranks.

Today, the LaPerm is cherished not just for its unique, curly coat, but also for its friendly nature and playful demeanor. But even with this recognition, it is still a relatively rare breed. So if you happen to meet a LaPerm, know that you’re in the presence of a true natural wonder!

Breed Standard

A breed standard is a set of guidelines that describes the ideal characteristics, temperament, and appearance of a breed and ensures that the breed is fit for function with soundness essential. Breed standards are devised by breed clubs and recognized by various cat registries worldwide.

These standards provide detailed descriptions of the breed’s physical characteristics such as body shape, size, coat type and color, eye color and shape, ear placement, and tail length.

• LaPerm’s breed standard by The International Cat Association (TICA)
• LaPerm’s breed standard by the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA)

FAQs

Are LaPerm cats expensive?

The price of a LaPerm cat can vary depending on various factors such as the breeder’s reputation, location, the rarity of the coat color, and the cat’s age. However, they are generally mid to high-priced cats due to their unique coat and rarity.

Are LaPerm cats smart?

Yes, LaPerm cats are known for their intelligence and curiosity. They can be quick learners and are often eager to explore their environment or engage in interactive play.

Are LaPerm cats playful?

Absolutely! LaPerms are known for their playful and affectionate nature. They love to be involved in whatever their owners are doing and are often considered great family pets due to their engaging personalities.

Where is the LaPerm cat from?

The LaPerm cat breed originated in the United States, specifically in Oregon. The first known LaPerm was born on a farm in The Dalles, Oregon, in the early 1980s.

Do LaPerm cats have any special grooming needs due to their unique coat?

Despite their curly coat, LaPerms don’t require frequent grooming. Brushing once a week is usually enough to keep their coat looking its best. Their curls are natural and permanent, so they don’t need any special treatments to maintain their unique aesthetics.