Cat breed · Semi-longhair / Shorthair (rex)
LaPerm
A curly-coated farm-cat mutation from Oregon with a sweet, clingy temperament and a coat that sheds very little.
Medium12–15 yearsUnited States (Oregon)Can suit apartments
Representative breed photography. Appearance varies within every breed.
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Semi-longhair / Shorthair (rex)
- Origin
- United States (Oregon)
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 2.5–4.5 kg
- Height
- 23–28 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–15 years
- Coat
- Soft, springy curls from a dominant rex mutation; longhair and shorthair varieties
- Temperament
- GentleAffectionateCuriousPeople-oriented
History
Began in 1982 when a bald, curly kitten was born to an Oregon farm cat; the dominant curl gene founded the breed.
Appearance
Elegant, moderate cat with loose bottle-brush curls, prominent whiskers and expressive eyes.
Exercise and activity
Moderate; playful and fetch-inclined but not frantic.
Care and grooming
Comb gently a couple of times a week; brushing too hard frizzes the curls.
Health considerations
- Generally healthy with no major documented breed-specific conditions