LaPerm Cat: Curly, Affectionate and Always at Your Side

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

The LaPerm looks as if it has just stepped out of a salon, with curls and waves that give it a soft, tousled look. Its charm is not only in appearance. LaPerms are known for being devoted, gentle companions that like to be involved in whatever their humans are doing.

Origins

The LaPerm began on a farm in Oregon in 1982, when a barn cat gave birth to a bald kitten with tabby markings. The kitten, named Curly, grew a soft, curly coat. Her owners, Linda and Richard Koehl, noticed that her curls were passed to later litters through a dominant gene. They developed a breed from her descendants, and the name LaPerm comes from the permanent wave look. It was recognized by cat registries in the 1990s and 2000s. For related curly breeds, see Selkirk Rex and Devon Rex.

Appearance

LaPerms are medium-sized and muscular but not heavy. Males typically weigh 8 to 10 pounds and females 6 to 8 pounds. They are known for:

• Soft, springy curls or waves, most dramatic around the neck, ears and tail
• A coat in shorthair or longhair varieties
• Curly whiskers and eyebrows
• A wedge-shaped head with a rounded muzzle
• Large, expressive, almond-shaped eyes
• All colors and patterns

The coat varies from loose waves to tight ringlets. Some kittens are born bald, grow a short straight coat, then curl as they mature.

Temperament

LaPerms are known for loving company.

• Affectionate. They snuggle, sit on shoulders and purr loudly.
• Curious and active. They explore and enjoy climbing, though they are not as frenetic as some breeds.
• Intelligent. They learn routines and tricks, and enjoy puzzle toys.
• Gentle. They tend to get along with children, cats and cat-friendly dogs.
• Quiet. They have soft voices and use them sparingly.

Because they crave attention, they may be unhappy if left alone for long. See cat separation anxiety.

Grooming

The curly coat is easy to care for.

• Comb once a week with a wide-toothed comb. Avoid heavy brushing, which can create frizz.
• Bathe rarely, since bathing can alter the curl. See how to bathe a cat.
• Check the ears, since curly cats can collect wax. See how to clean a cat's ears.
• Trim nails and brush teeth. See how to trim cat nails.

Longhaired LaPerms need a little more care. See how to brush a cat. Shedding may increase seasonally, and curly coats can trap loose hair, which may form small mats.

Health

LaPerms are generally healthy and hardy. As with many breeds, ask breeders about:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy screening
• Dental and gum health. See cat dental disease.
• Skin sensitivities
• Weight management. See how much should I feed my cat.

Keep vaccines and parasite control current. See the cat vaccination schedule, and use the US vet directory to find a clinic.

Living with a LaPerm

LaPerms adapt well to apartments and houses.

• Provide climbing trees and window perches. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Offer interactive play and puzzle feeders. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Provide warm resting spots, since many seek heat.
• Include them in activities, since they love company.

Keep them indoors for safety. Microchip and tag them. See cat microchipping and identification.

Is a LaPerm right for you?

LaPerms suit people who want a loving, interactive cat with moderate energy and easy grooming. They may not suit people who are out most of the day, or who want a cat that is aloof.

Allergies

Their coat may produce less dander for some owners, but no breed is hypoallergenic. Spend time with LaPerms before buying. See hypoallergenic cat breeds: the truth.

A day with a LaPerm

Expect a morning greeting at your side, a midday nap in a patch of sun and an evening of lap time. LaPerms often follow their people from room to room, and they enjoy being part of everything. Short play sessions with a wand toy, a puzzle feeder at lunchtime and an evening cuddle give them the mix of attention and activity they like. Because they bond closely, plan for company if you are out all day.

Common mistakes

New owners often brush the curls too hard, bathe too often or leave a very social cat alone for long hours. Choose a gentle comb, keep baths rare and make time for daily interaction. These simple habits keep a LaPerm comfortable, and they keep the curls looking their best.

Finding a LaPerm

The breed is rare, so you may have to wait. Choose a breeder who health-tests, shows you the parents and is open about the kitten's early life. Ask what registry the kitten belongs to and what care they have received. Rescue groups sometimes have curly-coated cats, though purebred LaPerms are uncommon in shelters.