La Perms

La Perm cats have an elegant look similar to the Siamese, with a wedge-shaped head. The curly coat on both varieties (long and short hair) may vary in length and fullness depending upon the season and maturity of the cat but has no undercoat. The curls range from tight ringlet-type curls to long corkscrew curls. The tightest curls occur on the underside of the cat on the throat and at the base of the ears. The longhair version has a curly plumed tail and the shorter-haired has a 'bottle-brush' type. All types boast a set of long, curly whiskers. The La Perm cat breed may be any colour or pattern. Its eye colours run the gamut of gold through aqua, and also 'odd eyes'.

The need-to-know

Highly active and inquisitive cat
Sociable and dependent cat

Average build cat breed
Requires grooming every day

Outdoor cat
Great family cat

Previous Next

1 of 1

Personality

La Perms are gentle cats. They love people and seek out human company. They are very affectionate and enjoy being cuddled and readily learn to fetch as well as many other skills. They are inquisitive by nature, always wanting to know what is going on around them. They are generally quiet voiced but may be vocal when required attention.

Previous Next

La Perms cat is watching the weather outside through the window.

1 of 1

History and Origins

Country of Origin: USA

The La Perm cat's curly or wavy coat is its most remarkable feature. The originator of this breed was found in a litter of ordinary cats on a farm in Oregon in 1986. A single kitten in the litter of six was born bald. Within eight weeks, the kitten began to grow very soft, curly hair. At three to four months of age, the kitten had a full coat of curly hair found in all La Perms. Unlike other curly coats breeds, such as the Devon Rex cat breed or Cornish Rex cat breed, the La Perm's coat may be short or long. The breed is not common outside America.

Health and Common Issues

Inherited ailments have yet to be identified in the breed.

Nutrition and Feeding

Every cat is unique and each has their own particular likes, dislikes, and needs when it comes to food. However, cats are carnivores and every cat must obtain 41 different and specific nutrients from their food. The proportion of these nutrients will vary depending on age, lifestyle, and overall health. So it's not surprising that a growing, energetic kitten needs a different balance of nutrients in her diet than a less active senior cat. Other considerations to bear in mind are feeding the right quantity of food to maintain 'ideal body condition' in accordance with feeding guidelines and catering to individual preference regarding wet or dry food recipes.

Grooming La Perms

The La Perm cat's coat requires minimum grooming. The coat does not easily mat and it sheds less than other breeds. Bathing and towel drying will help to maintain the curls; blow drying tends to make the hair 'frizzy'. As with all cats, regular vaccination and parasite control is recommended.

Best Cat Breeds for Children

While this breed is not widely recognised as one of the best breeds for children, all cats are different and with the proper familiarisation may still be able to live with children.

Finding a cat

Two cats sitting on a sofa with a red cushion

Finding a pet

Is this the right breed for you?

All cats have their own unique personality! Try our Cat Breed Selector tool and find out which cat breeds better match your preferences and lifestyle.

Take the breed selector

Finding a pet

Thinking about getting a cat?

What breed would you like? Can you handle the challenges of a cheeky kitten, or would a calmer senior cat suit your lifestyle more?

Learn more

Finding a pet

Finding a good breeder

If your heart is set on a pedigree kitten, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. Find out what to look for in a kitten breeder with this guide.

Learn more

Finding a pet

Bringing your cat home

While you're waiting for the big day you may need to distract yourself, so luckily there are a few things you need to sort our before you welcome your new arrival.

Learn more

Adoption

It's incredibly fulfilling to adopt a cat from an animal shelter or rescue organisation. It often means offering them a second chance at life. There are many cats waiting for a loving family and their forever home, but what can you expect from the process?

Learn more

Ginger kitten sitting on woman's shoulder

Kitten advice

Everything you need to know

Getting a new kitten is incredibly exciting for all the family, but it can be quite scary for your new arrival. Find out how to deal with everything from behaviour to health questions with our expert kitten advice.

Learn more