LaPerm Cat: Complete Guide to Personality, Care, Price, Size & More

August 1, 2026 13 Min Read 0

LaPerm Cat

Introduction

The LaPerm Cat is a distinctive breed best known for its naturally curly coat, affectionate personality, and playful nature. Originating in the United States through a spontaneous genetic mutation, this charming feline has become popular among cat lovers who appreciate its unusual appearance and friendly temperament. Whether short-haired or long-haired, the LaPerm combines elegance with intelligence and enjoys spending time close to its family. This Curly Coat Cat adapts well to many households and is often described as gentle, curious, and easy to care for. This guide covers everything you need to know about its history, appearance, personality, and daily life.

What Is a LaPerm Cat?

The LaPerm Cat is a naturally occurring breed recognized for its soft, curly or wavy coat.

Unlike many curly-coated breeds that were intentionally developed, the LaPerm originated from a natural genetic mutation and later became an established breed. Its curls may range from loose waves to tight ringlets, giving every cat a slightly different appearance.

Key Characteristics

Naturally curly coat
Medium-sized body
Friendly temperament
High intelligence
Gentle personality
Active lifestyle
Strong bond with owners
Adaptable companion

The Curly Coat Cat is admired for both its unusual appearance and affectionate nature.

LaPerm Cat History

The LaPerm originated in The Dalles, Oregon, USA, during the early 1980s.

In 1982, a barn cat gave birth to a kitten that was born nearly hairless. As the kitten grew, it developed a soft, curly coat unlike any other cat on the farm. The kitten, later named Curly, became the foundation of the breed after breeders discovered the coat resulted from a naturally occurring dominant genetic mutation. Over time, careful breeding helped establish today’s LaPerm while preserving its healthy genetic diversity.

Today, the breed is recognized by several major cat organizations around the world and remains one of the most distinctive naturally curly-coated cats.

While the LaPerm Cat is admired for its naturally curly coat and playful personality, the Neva Masquerade is known for its luxurious coat, blue eyes, and gentle temperament.

Appearance

The LaPerm Cat has an athletic yet elegant body with balanced proportions.

Its curly coat immediately attracts attention, while its graceful build reflects its active personality.

Body

The breed has a medium-sized, muscular body with long legs and a well-balanced frame.

Head

The head forms a gentle wedge shape with soft facial contours.

Eyes

Large almond-shaped eyes create an alert, expressive appearance.

Eye color varies widely and is not linked to coat color.

Ears

The ears are medium to large with a broad base.

Long-haired individuals may develop attractive lynx tips.

Tail

The tail is well proportioned and covered with soft curls.

Long-haired cats often have a beautifully plumed tail.

Coat

The coat may be:

Short
Long
Wavy
Curly
Soft
Springy

The amount of curl varies between individuals and may even change slightly with age or the seasons.

Coat Colors & Patterns

One of the most interesting features of the LaPerm is the incredible variety of accepted colors and patterns.

Common Colors

White
Black
Blue
Red
Cream
Chocolate
Cinnamon
Fawn
Lavender

Common Patterns

Solid
Tabby
Bicolor
Calico
Tortoiseshell
Colorpoint

Coat Characteristics

The coat is generally:

Light
Airy
Soft
Curly
Low maintenance

Many kittens are born with very little hair or even bald before developing their famous curls several weeks later.

LaPerm Personality

The LaPerm Personality is one of the breed’s greatest strengths.

These cats are affectionate without being overly demanding and enjoy participating in everyday family life.

Affectionate

Most enjoy sitting beside their owners and often seek gentle attention throughout the day.

Intelligent

They learn routines quickly and enjoy puzzle toys and interactive games.

Curious

Exploring new places and investigating unfamiliar objects are natural behaviors.

Gentle

The breed is generally calm, making it suitable for many different households.

Playful

Despite their relaxed nature, they enjoy daily play sessions and interactive activities.

Social

Many LaPerm cats get along well with children, visitors, and other pets when properly introduced.

Why Is the LaPerm Cat Unique?

Several features make the LaPerm Cat different from most domestic breeds.

Its most recognizable qualities include:

Naturally curly coat
Soft ringlets
Friendly personality
Gentle temperament
High intelligence
Rare genetic background

Unlike other Rex breeds, the LaPerm’s curly coat developed through its own unique genetic mutation rather than sharing ancestry with other curly-coated cats.

Is a LaPerm Cat a Good Family Pet?

The LaPerm Cat adapts well to a variety of households.

It is often a good choice for:

Families
Couples
Singles
Seniors
Apartment living
Homes with other pets

Because the breed enjoys human companionship, it usually prefers spending time with family rather than being left alone for extended periods.

LaPerm Cat Size

The LaPerm Cat is considered a medium-sized breed.

Average Height

10–14 inches

Average Weight

Females: 5–8 pounds
Males: 7–10 pounds

Growth Stages

Kitten (0–6 Months)

Rapid growth with increasing curiosity and playful exploration.

Junior (6–18 Months)

Muscle development continues while confidence and activity levels increase.

Adult (18–24 Months)

Most LaPerms reach full physical maturity between eighteen months and two years of age.

Quick Facts

Feature	Details
Origin	United States
Breed Type	Natural Breed
Coat	Short or Long Curly
Weight	5–10 lbs
Lifespan	12–15 Years
Grooming	Low
Shedding	Low
Personality	Gentle, Intelligent, Affectionate

Why Is the LaPerm Cat Becoming More Popular?

Interest in the LaPerm Cat continues to grow because of its beautiful curly coat, affectionate personality, and relatively simple grooming needs. Many owners appreciate that this Curly Coat Cat combines an unusual appearance with a calm, loving temperament, making it a rewarding companion for both experienced and first-time cat owners.

Grooming & Coat Care

The LaPerm Cat may have a curly coat, but it is surprisingly easy to maintain. The soft curls usually do not mat easily, making grooming simpler than many people expect.

Regular grooming keeps the coat healthy while giving you an opportunity to check your cat’s skin, ears, and overall condition.

Brushing

Brush your cat once or twice each week using a wide-tooth comb or a soft-bristle brush.

Regular brushing helps:

Remove loose hair
Maintain natural curls
Reduce tangles
Distribute natural skin oils
Strengthen the bond with your pet

Avoid over-brushing, as excessive grooming may loosen the curls.

Bathing

The LaPerm rarely requires frequent baths.

Only bathe your cat when:

The coat becomes dirty
Recommended by your veterinarian
The cat has been exposed to substances that cannot be removed through brushing

Always use a gentle shampoo designed specifically for cats.

Ear Cleaning

Inspect the ears weekly for:

Wax buildup
Dirt
Redness
Unpleasant odor

Clean gently using veterinarian-approved ear-cleaning products.

Nail Trimming

Trim the nails every 2–4 weeks to support healthy paws and prevent overgrown claws.

Dental Care

Brush your cat’s teeth several times each week to reduce plaque and help prevent dental disease.

Shedding

The LaPerm Cat is generally considered a low-shedding breed.

Does a LaPerm Shed?

Yes, but shedding is usually light.

The loose, curly coat tends to trap shed hairs until brushing removes them.

Seasonal shedding may become slightly more noticeable during spring and autumn.

Managing Shedding

To reduce loose hair:

Brush weekly.
Feed a balanced diet.
Provide fresh water daily.
Schedule regular veterinary visits.
Wash bedding frequently.

Routine grooming helps the Curly Coat Cat maintain a healthy, soft coat.

Exercise & Mental Stimulation

The LaPerm Cat is active, intelligent, and naturally curious.

Daily exercise supports both physical fitness and mental well-being.

Daily Exercise

Provide 30–45 minutes of interactive play each day.

Favorite activities include:

Feather wand toys
Puzzle feeders
Interactive balls
Cat tunnels
Chasing games
Climbing trees

Climbing

Many LaPerm cats enjoy climbing and observing their surroundings from elevated places.

Provide:

Cat trees
Window perches
Wall shelves
Scratching posts

These encourage exercise while satisfying natural instincts.

Mental Enrichment

The intelligent LaPerm Personality benefits from:

Puzzle toys
Food puzzles
Clicker training
Toy rotation
Interactive games

Mental stimulation helps prevent boredom while encouraging positive behavior.

Common Health Problems

The LaPerm Cat is generally considered a healthy breed because it developed through a natural genetic mutation rather than intensive selective breeding.

Although serious inherited diseases are uncommon, regular veterinary care remains essential.

Dental Disease

Without routine dental care, cats may develop:

Plaque
Tartar
Gum disease

Regular brushing greatly reduces these risks.

Obesity

Indoor cats may gain excess weight if they receive too much food and too little exercise.

Maintaining a healthy weight supports long-term health.

Skin Health

Because of the unique curly coat, occasional skin irritation may occur if grooming products are unsuitable.

Using gentle grooming products helps maintain healthy skin.

Routine Veterinary Care

Schedule regular examinations that include:

Physical checkups
Vaccinations
Parasite prevention
Dental evaluations
Weight monitoring

Preventive care helps identify health concerns early.

Lifespan

A healthy LaPerm Cat typically lives between 12 and 15 years, although many individuals enjoy even longer lives with excellent care.

Factors That Affect Lifespan

Genetics
Balanced nutrition
Preventive healthcare
Daily exercise
Indoor living
Healthy body weight

Consistent care supports both longevity and quality of life.

Diet & Nutrition

Proper nutrition supports the muscles, skin, coat, and immune system of the LaPerm Cat.

High-Quality Protein

Choose foods that list animal protein as the primary ingredient.

Protein supports:

Lean muscle
Healthy growth
Strong immunity

Wet vs. Dry Food

Many veterinarians recommend feeding both wet and dry food to provide balanced nutrition while supporting hydration.

Portion Control

Feed measured portions based on:

Age
Activity level
Body condition
Veterinary advice

Maintaining a healthy weight helps reduce the risk of obesity.

Fresh Water

Always provide clean drinking water throughout the day.

Good hydration supports healthy kidneys and overall wellness.

Nutrients That Support Coat Health

Look for foods containing:

Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-6 fatty acids
Taurine
Vitamin E
High-quality protein

These nutrients help maintain the beautiful curly coat and healthy skin.

Daily Care Checklist

A simple routine helps keep your LaPerm Cat healthy and comfortable.

Every Day

Provide fresh food and water.
Spend time playing together.
Scoop the litter box.
Observe appetite and behavior.

Every Week

Brush the coat.
Check the ears.
Brush the teeth.
Inspect the skin and curls.

Every Month

Trim nails.
Monitor body weight.
Clean grooming tools.

Every Year

Schedule a veterinary wellness examination.
Update vaccinations.
Continue parasite prevention.
Review nutrition with your veterinarian.

Care Summary Table

Care Task	Recommended Frequency
Brushing	1–2 times weekly
Bathing	As needed
Ear Inspection	Weekly
Nail Trimming	Every 2–4 weeks
Teeth Brushing	Several times weekly
Veterinary Checkup	Once yearly
Daily Exercise	30–45 minutes

LaPerm Cat vs Cornish Rex

The LaPerm Cat and the Cornish Rex are both known for their unusual coats, but they are different breeds with distinct characteristics. While both are affectionate and intelligent, their coat texture, body structure, and genetic backgrounds differ.

Feature	LaPerm Cat	Cornish Rex
Origin	United States	England
Coat	Loose curls or waves	Short, tight waves
Whiskers	Curly	Curly
Body	Medium, muscular	Slim and elegant
Grooming	Low	Low
Personality	Gentle, affectionate, playful	Active, curious, outgoing

Unlike the Cornish Rex, the LaPerm has a naturally occurring curly coat that ranges from soft waves to ringlets.

LaPerm Cat Price

The LaPerm Cat is considered an uncommon breed, so availability may vary depending on your location.

Kitten Price

Pet-quality kittens generally cost between $800 and $2,000.

Show-quality kittens from well-established breeding programs may cost $2,500 or more.

Adoption

Occasionally, adult LaPerm cats or mixed cats become available through rescue organizations.

Typical adoption fees range from $100 to $400.

Initial Supplies

Before bringing your kitten home, prepare for:

Food and water bowls
Litter box
Cat carrier
Comfortable bed
Scratching post
Interactive toys
Grooming supplies
High-quality cat food

Annual Ownership Costs

Regular yearly expenses commonly include:

Premium food
Veterinary checkups
Vaccinations
Dental care
Parasite prevention
Replacement toys
Optional pet insurance

Preparing for these expenses helps provide consistent lifelong care.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Beautiful natural curls
Affectionate personality
Intelligent and curious
Easy-to-maintain coat
Family-friendly
Generally healthy breed
Excellent indoor companion

Cons

Rare in some countries
Limited breeder availability
Requires regular interaction
Curly coat varies between individuals
May become bored without mental stimulation

Is a LaPerm Cat Right for You?

The LaPerm Cat is an excellent choice for owners who want an affectionate, playful, and intelligent companion.

The breed is well suited for:

Families
Couples
Singles
Seniors
Apartment living
Homes with other pets

The LaPerm Personality is usually gentle and social, making the breed a good fit for households where someone can provide regular companionship and playtime.

If you can provide balanced nutrition, preventive healthcare, routine grooming, and daily interaction, this breed can become a loyal member of your family.

Final Verdict

The LaPerm Cat combines a naturally curly coat with an affectionate personality, making it one of the most distinctive companion breeds. Its playful attitude, intelligence, and gentle temperament appeal to families, experienced owners, and first-time cat lovers alike.

Although the LaPerm remains less common than many popular breeds, its easy grooming requirements, adaptable nature, and loving behavior make it an excellent choice for indoor living. With proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and plenty of attention, this remarkable Curly Coat Cat can enjoy a long, healthy, and rewarding life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a LaPerm Cat a good family pet?

Yes. The breed is affectionate, gentle, and usually gets along well with children and other pets.

2. What is a LaPerm?

The LaPerm is a natural cat breed recognized for its soft, curly coat and friendly personality.

3. Why does the LaPerm have curly fur?

Its curls are caused by a naturally occurring dominant genetic mutation that developed without selective breeding.

4. How big do LaPerm Cats get?

Most adults weigh between 5 and 10 pounds, with males generally being slightly larger than females.

5. Are LaPerm Cats healthy?

Yes. They are generally considered a healthy breed with relatively few inherited health concerns when responsibly bred.

6. What is the average LaPerm Cat price?

Most kittens cost between $800 and $2,000, depending on pedigree and breeder reputation.

7. How long do LaPerm Cats live?

Most live between 12 and 15 years, although many remain healthy beyond that with excellent care.

8. Do LaPerm Cats shed?

Yes, but shedding is generally light because the loose curls help trap shed hairs until brushing removes them.

9. Are LaPerm Cats hypoallergenic?

No. Although some people with mild allergies report fewer reactions, the breed is not truly hypoallergenic.

10. Can LaPerm Cats live indoors?

Yes. Indoor living is recommended because it protects them from disease, accidents, and environmental hazards.

11. How often should they be groomed?

Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep the coat healthy and free of loose hair.

12. Are LaPerm Cats active?

Yes. They enjoy climbing, puzzle toys, interactive games, and regular play sessions.

13. Do they get along with other pets?

Yes. With proper introductions, they usually adapt well to other cats and cat-friendly dogs.

14. Does every LaPerm have the same type of curls?

No. Curl pattern and coat texture vary from one cat to another, ranging from loose waves to tight ringlets.

15. Are LaPerm Cats suitable for first-time owners?

Yes. Their affectionate temperament, moderate grooming needs, and adaptable personality make them an excellent choice for many first-time cat owners.