American Curl: The Cat With the Backward-Curving Ears

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

The American Curl has one of the most recognizable looks in the cat world. Its ears sweep back in an elegant arc, giving a perpetual look of alert curiosity. Behind the ears is a bright, gentle cat that has been called the Peter Pan of cats, because it keeps its kitten-like playfulness for life.

Origins

In 1981, a stray black longhaired kitten with curled ears turned up at the home of Joe and Grace Ruga in Lakewood, California. They named her Shulamith, and she gave birth to kittens that also had curled ears. The curl came from a spontaneous dominant mutation. Breeders developed the line carefully, and the breed was accepted by cat associations in the 1980s and 1990s. Curls come in shorthair and longhair varieties.

Appearance

American Curls are medium-sized, elegant cats. Males usually weigh 7 to 10 pounds and females 5 to 8 pounds. They have:

• Ears that curve back in an arc of 90 to 180 degrees, with a firm base
• A silky, flat-lying coat with little undercoat
• A plumed tail, especially in longhairs
• Walnut-shaped eyes in any color
• A modified wedge head
• Any color or pattern

Kittens are born with straight ears. Within the first week to ten days the ears begin to curl, and they set by about sixteen weeks. Some kittens end up with ears that do not curl enough.

Temperament

American Curls are known for being sociable and balanced.

• Affectionate. They like to be near their people and often greet visitors.
• Playful. Many keep a kitten's enthusiasm into old age.
• Curious. They like to investigate and may learn to open doors or cupboards.
• Gentle. They tend to get along with children, other cats and dogs.
• Quiet. They are not very vocal, though they may chirp.

Their friendly nature suits households with other pets. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.

Ear care

The ears are the breed's hallmark and need gentle handling.

• Never bend or pull the ears, since cartilage can crack or be damaged.
• Check the ears weekly for redness, odor or discharge. See how to clean a cat's ears.
• Clean only when needed, using a vet-approved cleaner and cotton balls on the outer ear.
• See your vet if you notice head shaking, scratching or odor.

Because the curl can make the ear canal narrower, some cats may be more prone to wax build-up.

American Curl or Scottish Fold?

Both breeds are known for ear shape, but they are different. The Scottish Fold's ears fold forward, caused by a gene linked to a cartilage disorder that can lead to painful joint disease. The American Curl's mutation has not been linked to the same problem, though responsible breeders still screen. See the Scottish Fold profile for more.

Grooming

The coat is silky and rarely mats.

• Brush once or twice a week, with a soft brush or comb. See how to brush a cat.
• Bathe occasionally. See how to bathe a cat.
• Trim nails and brush teeth. See cat dental disease.

Longhaired curls may need extra combing during seasonal shedding.

Health

American Curls are considered generally healthy. Potential issues include:

• Ear infections or wax build-up
• Dental disease
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, as with many breeds
• Obesity if overfed. See how much should I feed my cat.

Ask breeders about health screening, and see your vet regularly. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Living with an American Curl

They adapt to many homes.

• Provide climbing trees and window perches. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Offer interactive play and puzzle feeders. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Include them in family life.
• Keep them indoors with identification. See cat microchipping and identification.

Is an American Curl right for you?

They suit families and anyone who wants a friendly, active but not overwhelming cat. They may not suit people who are away for long hours, or who want an independent cat.

Questions to ask a breeder

Ask how the parents' ears are, whether there are any ear infections in the line, what health screening has been done and when kittens go home. Because ear shape is not final until about four months, be wary of anyone who guarantees perfect curls in a young kitten. Request vaccination and deworming records, and a written health guarantee.

Common mistakes

Do not bend the ears to see how they will turn out, since doing so can damage the cartilage. Avoid over-cleaning, which can irritate the canal. Keep regular checks and visit your vet when something looks off.

Finding one

Choose a breeder who health-tests, shows the parents and explains ear development. Be wary of promises of perfect ears before four months, since the final curl is not set earlier. Compare personality with the affectionate Ragdoll.