LaPerm
The curls trace to a barn kitten born bald in Oregon in 1982. Many LaPerms arrive with no coat at all and grow the curls over their first months.
Photo by Takashi(aes256), CC BY-SA 2.0
Overview
The LaPerm began in an Oregon barn in 1982 with a kitten born completely bald that grew a curly coat over the following months. The gene is dominant, and LaPerm kittens still commonly go through a bald phase before the curls arrive.
The coat can be short or long, ranges from waves to ringlets, and the cats moult in a way that sometimes takes them back to near bald before growing in again.
Temperament
Affectionate, gentle and quietly persistent about attention. LaPerms follow people around, sit on laps and reach out to touch faces.
They are people cats rather than independent ones, active without being frantic, and they get on well with children and other animals. They are moderately vocal.
Care and grooming
Less is more. Brushing straightens the curl, so a wide toothed comb occasionally is the right tool and a brush is not.
They shed less than most cats, which contributes to the reputation for being easier on allergies, and it is worth being clear that no cat is hypoallergenic. Pyruvate kinase deficiency has been found in the breed and has a DNA test.
Living and exercise
An ordinary indoor life with company. They are moderately active and enjoy interactive play.
They are good with families and adaptable to most households. Ten to fifteen years is usual, and the breed is generally sound.
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