LaPerm Cat Breed Guide
Origin: United States (Oregon)
The LaPerm is a curly-coated breed known for its distinctive rexed coat of soft waves and ringlets, available in both short and long hair. It is an exceptionally affectionate, people-loving cat that thrives on human companionship and follows its owners from room to room.
| Breed | LaPerm |
| Type | Rex |
| Weight | 6 - 10 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12 - 15 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate, People-oriented, Curious |
| Energy Level | Moderate |
| Affection | Velcro Cat |
| Grooming | Low |
| Good with Kids | Yes |
| Good with Pets | Yes |
Overview
The LaPerm is a medium-sized cat instantly recognized by its curly coat, which can range from gentle waves to tight ringlets and even includes curly whiskers. Despite its unusual appearance, the breed is a hardy, naturally developed cat with a friendly and inquisitive personality. LaPerms form strong bonds with their families and are often described as gentle and quietly devoted, preferring to be close to their people. They tend to be relatively low maintenance for a longhaired-capable breed because the curly coat sheds minimally and rarely mats.
History and Origin
The LaPerm originated in 1982 on a farm in The Dalles, Oregon, when a barn cat named Speedy gave birth to a hairless kitten that later grew a curly coat. The breeder, Linda Koehl, allowed the cats to breed naturally over several years, and the curly trait proved to be a dominant spontaneous mutation. The breed was named for its resemblance to a permanent wave hairstyle and was developed into a recognized breed during the 1990s. TICA granted full championship status in 2002 and CFA followed with championship recognition in 2008.
Size and Appearance
Weight
6 - 10 lbs (3 - 5 kg)
Size Class
Medium
Coat: Curly to wavy rexed coat that ranges from soft springy ringlets to loose waves, available in both shorthair and longhair varieties, with the longhair sporting a curly plumed tail
Temperament and Personality
With Children
LaPerm cats are generally patient and gentle with respectful children.
With Other Pets
LaPerm cats usually adapt well to other cats and cat-friendly dogs with proper introductions.
Ideal Home and Best Uses
Grooming and Care
LaPerm cats have low grooming needs. A weekly brush is usually enough to keep the coat in good condition. Keep nails trimmed, check ears, and maintain dental care like any cat.
Health Problems
Regular veterinary screening is recommended.
Regular veterinary screening is recommended.
Regular veterinary screening is recommended.
Lifespan
The average LaPerm lifespan is 12-15 years with good care, a balanced diet, indoor living, and regular veterinary checkups.
Price and Annual Costs
Kitten Price
USD from a reputable breeder, depending on pedigree
Annual Upkeep
USD per year covering food, litter, and vet care
Pros and Cons
Pros
- People wanting an affectionate lap cat
- Households that want a low-shed curly breed
- Owners seeking a gentle, sociable companion
- Suitable for first-time cat owners
Cons
- People who want an independent, aloof cat
- Owners who are away from home for long hours
LaPerm vs Other Breeds
LaPerm wins at
Lower maintenance coat that needs no regular bathing and tolerates cold better
Sphynx wins at
Truly hypoallergenic-leaning hairlessness and a more outgoing, clownish personality
LaPerm wins at
Calmer, gentler temperament and a coat that mats and sheds less
Devon Rex wins at
Higher energy and more active, athletic playfulness
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the LaPerm a good family cat?
Yes. The LaPerm is gentle, affectionate and people-oriented, getting along well with children and other pets, which makes it an excellent family companion.
How much does a LaPerm cost?
A LaPerm kitten from a reputable breeder typically costs between 600 and 1200 dollars, with show-quality or rare-colored kittens sometimes priced higher.
Do LaPerm cats shed a lot?
No. The LaPerm's curly coat sheds very little and rarely mats, making it one of the lower-shedding breeds, though no cat is fully hypoallergenic.
How long do LaPerm cats live?
LaPerms are a hardy, naturally developed breed and generally live between 12 and 15 years with good care, diet and regular veterinary checkups.
Are LaPerm cats high maintenance?
Not particularly. Their curly coat needs only occasional combing, they shed minimally, and their main need is plenty of human company and affection.
Final Verdict
The LaPerm is a great choice for owners of all experience levels. With a lifespan of 12-15 years, moderate energy, and velcro cat affection, it suits people wanting an affectionate lap cat.