What Makes a LaPerm Different
The LaPerm stands out because of its coat texture and temperament. While most curly cats have tight ringlets, a LaPerm’s curl is soft and tousled, like human hair after a gentle wave. Whiskers often curl too. The coat can be short or long, and both types have minimal undercoat. That means less matting and lighter shedding than Persian or Maine Coon coats.
Beyond looks, LaPerms are people-oriented without being clingy. They want proximity, not constant holding. A LaPerm will sit on your laptop, sleep on the couch arm, and check in with headbutts throughout the day. They’re curious, expressive, and keep a playful streak well into adulthood. If you want a cat that participates in your routine instead of ignoring it, this breed fits.
History and Origin: From Barn Cat to Show Ring
The LaPerm story started by accident in 1982 on a farm in The Dalles, Oregon. A barn cat named Speedy had a litter, and one kitten was born bald. A few weeks later, her coat grew soft and curly. The owners called her Curly. As Curly matured and had her own litters, the curly coat kept appearing. The farm owners, Linda and Richard Koehl, noticed the trait was genetic and began selective breeding to keep both the coat and friendly nature.
Word spread slowly. Breeders worked for years to stabilize type and temperament. TICA granted championship status in 2003, and CFA followed in 2008. Because the breed began from a natural mutation in a domestic cat, LaPerms have no wild ancestry. The gene pool is diverse, which helps with overall health.
Today, you’ll find LaPerms worldwide, but they’re still less common than Siamese or Ragdolls. Ethical breeders focus on health, correct coat texture, and stable temperament rather than extreme curl. Kittens may be born with straight coats that develop curl as they mature, so patience matters when evaluating a litter.
Appearance: Soft Curls and Balanced Build
You won’t mistake a LaPerm for another breed once you see the coat and face together.
Size and Structure
- Weight: Males 8-12 lbs, females 6-9 lbs. The build is medium, athletic, and balanced.
- Body: Medium-long torso with moderate bones. Legs are in proportion; paws are oval and medium. The stance looks alert but not tense.
- Head: Modified wedge with gentle curves. No sharp angles. The profile has a slight rise from the bridge to the forehead.
- Eyes: Almond-shaped and expressive. Any color is accepted, and eye color often matches coat color.
- Ears: Medium to large, set wide and upright. Ear furnishings curl outward like little antennas, adding to the wild look.
- Tail: Plumed and proportional to body length. In long-haired LaPerms, the tail is full and curly.
Coat and Colors
The coat is the signature trait. Short-haired LaPerms have close, wavy curls. Longhaired LaPerms have longer, looser curls with a ruff around the neck and a full tail. Both types feel soft and airy, not dense. Because there’s little undercoat, tangles are rare, and shedding is lighter than that of many longhairs.
Colors and patterns are wide open. Tabby, tortoiseshell, calico, solid, mink — any color is accepted. Kittens often have coat changes as they grow. A straight kitten coat may wave at 4-6 months, then develop a full curl by 1-2 years. The final texture depends on genetics and season.
Temperament: Affectionate, Curious, and Steady
LaPerms bond closely to people but give space when needed. They’re not lap-demanding cats, but they want to be near you.
Personality in Daily Life
These cats are observant. They notice new objects, routine changes, and your mood. Owners describe LaPerms as “quiet companions” that follow, supervise, and offer comfort. They greet family members at the door and tolerate guests well once introduced.
Play matters. LaPerms stay kitten-like for years. Wand toys, puzzle feeders, and cardboard boxes keep them engaged. They’re smart and respond to clicker training. Short training sessions work better than long ones. Their voice is soft—chirps and trills instead of loud meows. They “talk” when they want attention but don’t demand it constantly.
With Kids and Other Pets
LaPerms do well with kids who learn gentle handling. They’re patient and prefer to move away if play gets rough. With other cats and cat-friendly dogs, slow introductions work. LaPerms are easygoing and usually accept companions. Early socialization between 3-14 weeks creates confident adults who handle visitors and vet trips calmly.
They don’t like long periods alone. If you work 8+ hours away, a second cat or daily interactive time helps. A bored LaPerm may become withdrawn, not destructive.
Grooming and Daily Care
Despite the curly coat, LaPerm grooming is easier than most longhairs. The key is gentle handling and consistency.
Brushing and Coat Care
Brush 1-2 times weekly with fingers or a wide-tooth comb. Metal slicker brushes can break the curl, so avoid them. Start at the ends and work up to prevent pulling. Focus on the neck, belly, and behind the legs, where tangles start in long hair.
During seasonal shedding in spring and fall, increase to twice weekly. The coat releases loose hair instead of matting it. After brushing, you can mist with water to refresh curls. Let the coat air dry—heat damages the wave pattern.
Bathing and Skin Care
Bathing is rarely needed unless the cat gets into something sticky. Use cat-specific shampoo and lukewarm water. Air-drying keeps curls intact. Towel-drying can frizz the coat.
LaPerm skin is usually healthy, but some areas have a thinner coat coverage. Keep them indoors to prevent sunburn and scratches. Check skin during brushing for redness or irritation, especially if your cat has allergies.
Ears, Eyes, Nails, Teeth
- Ears: Check weekly for wax or debris. Wipe the outer ear with vet-approved cleaner. Dry thoroughly to prevent infection.
- Eyes: Wipe corners with damp cotton if tear staining appears. Almond eyes are less prone to issues than flat faces.
- Nails: Trim every 2-3 weeks. Provide sisal scratching posts to reduce trimming frequency.
- Teeth: Brush 2-3 times weekly with cat toothpaste. Dental disease is the most common health issue in all cats. Dental treats help, but don’t replace brushing.
Diet and Feeding Tips
LaPerms have moderate energy levels and lean muscle. Diet supports coat health, weight control, and digestion.
Protein: Animal protein, like chicken, turkey, or fish, should be the first ingredient. Cats need taurine for heart and eye health, and it comes from meat. High protein also keeps the coat and skin healthy.
Carbs and fillers: Limit corn, wheat, and soy. High-carb kibble can cause weight gain and digestive upset in sensitive cats. Grain-free isn’t required, but low-carb is better for most LaPerms.
Hydration: Wet food increases water intake and supports kidney and urinary health. Mix wet and dry if your cat prefers crunch. Always provide fresh water. Fountains encourage drinking in cats that ignore bowls.
Portions: Adults need 180-230 calories daily, depending on size and activity. Use a kitchen scale for accuracy. Measure food to prevent obesity, which reduces coat shine and increases health risks. Treats stay under 10% of daily calories. Scheduled feeding twice daily works better than free-feeding for weight control.
Avoid onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, and excessive dairy. For feeding guidelines based on veterinary research, Cornell Feline Health Center provides clear recommendations.
Health, Lifespan, and Common Concerns
LaPerms are generally healthy with no major breed-specific genetic disease. Lifespan averages 12-16 years with preventative care. The diverse gene pool from their farm origins helps reduce hereditary issues.
Health Issues to Monitor
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: HCM occurs in many cat breeds. Annual vet exams with cardiac listening catch early signs.
- Dental disease: Periodontal disease affects most cats by age 3 without home care. Annual dental exams and brushing reduce risk.
- Skin sensitivity: Thin-coat areas can be irritated by harsh chemicals or allergens. Use gentle grooming products and keep the environment clean.
- Obesity: Preventable through measured portions and daily play. Extra weight strains joints and dulls coat shine.
Annual vet exams should include a weight check, dental exam, cardiac listening, and blood work for seniors. Keep vaccines and parasite prevention current. Microchipping is essential in case your cat escapes.
Are LaPerms Good for Allergy Sufferers?
No cat is truly hypoallergenic because allergies are triggered by Fel d 1 protein in saliva and skin, not just hair. But many people with mild allergies report fewer symptoms with LaPerms.
Reasons include low shedding and coat texture that traps dander instead of releasing it into the air. Weekly brushing removes loose hair and allergens before they spread. Air purifiers and regular vacuuming help too.
If you have allergies, spend time with a LaPerm before adopting. Everyone’s sensitivity differs. Test compatibility in person rather than assuming a breed will work.
Living Environment and Ideal Owner
LaPerms adapt to apartments and houses if they get vertical space and human interaction. They prefer indoor life with routine. Homes where someone is present most of the day suit them best. If you travel often, a pet sitter or companion cat reduces stress.
They handle moderate household noise from kids or other pets but don’t like chaos. Quiet corners, soft bedding, and window perches let them rest when needed. They’re not background cats—expect a cat that watches what you do and joins in when interested.
Ideal owners enjoy interactive pets but don’t want constant demands. If you like grooming sessions, training games, and a cat that follows you, a LaPerm fits. If you want a low-maintenance cat that ignores you, consider a different breed.
Cost and Finding a LaPerm Kitten
From registered breeders, LaPerm kittens cost $800-$1,500 USD. Price varies by breeder reputation, pedigree, coat length, and color. Costs include initial vaccines, a microchip, and registration paperwork.
Ongoing costs:
- Food: $30-$50 monthly for quality wet and dry food.
- Vet care: Annual exams, vaccines, dental cleaning, and emergency fund.
- Grooming tools: Wide-tooth comb, nail clippers, ear cleaner.
- Enrichment: Cat tree, scratching posts, toys, puzzle feeders.
- Pet insurance: Optional, $20-$35 monthly.
Red flags: the breeder cannot show the pedigree, kittens leave before 12 weeks, there are no health records, or there are claims of being “hypoallergenic.” Ethical breeders register kittens with TICA or CFA and focus on health over extreme coat. Waitlists are common because ethical breeders produce limited litters.
Adoption is rare but possible. LaPerm mixes appear occasionally in rescues. Adoption fees are $100-$200 and include initial vet care.
Traveling with a LaPerm
LaPerms often travel well because they’re calm and people-oriented. Preparation matters more than the breed.
Get your cat used to the carrier weeks before the trip. Add a familiar blanket and treats. Take short car rides to build confidence. For flights, use an airline-approved carrier with ventilation and secure latches.
Pack familiar food, collapsible bowls, and comfort items like a shirt with your scent. Carry health records and vaccination proof, especially for air travel or border crossing. Microchips and ID tags are essential in case of an emergency.
Not every LaPerm enjoys travel, but most handle it well if the experience is positive and low-stress.
LaPerm vs Similar Curly Breeds
| Trait | LaPerm | Cornish Rex | Selkirk Rex |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coat texture | Soft, loose curls, minimal undercoat | Tight, rippled curls, no guard hair | Dense, plush curls, thick undercoat |
| Shedding | Low to moderate | Low | Moderate |
| Grooming | Weekly gentle brushing | Weekly wiping | Weekly brushing |
| Temperament | Affectionate, curious, gentle | Active, social, playful | Sweet, patient, cuddly |
| Body type | Medium, athletic | Svelte, slender | Medium, cobby |
LaPerm offers softer curls and easier grooming than Selkirk Rex and more coat coverage than Cornish Rex. If you want a curly cat with a gentle, adaptable personality, the LaPerm stands out.
Final Thoughts
The LaPerm suits owners who want an affectionate, curious cat with a unique look and manageable care. Key responsibilities are weekly gentle brushing, measured feeding, dental care, and daily interaction. Skip this breed if you’re away for long hours daily or dislike grooming sessions.
When needs are met, a LaPerm rewards you with loyalty, soft companionship, and years of quiet charm. It’s not just a curly coat. It’s a cat that notices you, bonds to you, and turns ordinary moments into connection. With basic care and attention, a LaPerm will be part of your family for 12-16 years.
FAQs
Are LaPerm cats good for first-time owners?
Yes. LaPerms are forgiving, gentle, and adaptable. First-timers should learn gentle grooming and commit to daily interaction.
Do LaPerms shed a lot?
No. The minimal undercoat means lighter shedding than many longhairs. Weekly brushing controls loose hair and keeps the coat healthy.
Can LaPerms live with other pets?
Yes. Slow introductions help. LaPerms accept other cats and cat-friendly dogs once trust is built. Early socialization is key.
How often should I bathe a LaPerm?
Rarely. Bathe only if the coat gets dirty. Air-dry to preserve curls. Overbathing strips natural oils and can irritate skin.
Also see: Quiet Cat Breeds for Apartments | Friendliest Cat Breeds for Families | Complete List of Cat Breeds