š¾ LaPerm: The Curly-Coated Cat with a Big Personality š¾
With its springy curls, sweet expression, and outgoing personality, the LaPerm is one of the most distinctive and delightful cat breeds in the world. Its signature curly coat gives it a unique, tousled appearanceālike it just woke up fabulous. But beyond the curls lies a loving, playful cat that enjoys being part of the family.
š¾ Origins and History
The LaPerm breed began as a natural genetic mutation in the early 1980s on a farm in Oregon, USA. A barn cat named Speedy gave birth to a bald kitten who later developed a curly coatāthis kitten, named Curly, became the foundation of the breed.
As more curly-coated kittens were born in subsequent litters, the trait was recognized and selectively bred. The breed was eventually developed and standardized, gaining recognition by major cat associations such as TICA and CFA.
Today, the LaPerm is loved for its unique coat and friendly, affectionate nature.
š Appearance
The LaPerm stands out for its loose, springy curls that can vary in length and tightness, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
Key features:
- Curly or wavy coat, either short or long; even their whiskers may curl!
- Coat feels soft, light, and airyānot coarse
- Medium-sized body, muscular but graceful
- Wide-set ears and expressive, almond-shaped eyes
- Comes in all colors and patterns, from tabby and tortoiseshell to solid shades
- Kittens may be born bald or with straight fur that develops curls over time
Each LaPerm is a little differentāsome have tight ringlets, others soft waves.
š» Personality and Temperament
Donāt let the fancy coat fool youāLaPerms are down-to-earth, affectionate, and intelligent cats who love human interaction.
Why people adore them:
- Extremely friendly and sociableāthey love laps and cuddles
- Playful and curious, staying kitten-like well into adulthood
- Clever and quick to learn, often enjoying interactive toys or games
- Gentle and easygoing, usually getting along well with kids, dogs, and other cats
- Known to purr loudly and nuzzle their humans affectionately
They thrive on attention but arenāt overly demandingājust genuinely happy to be around you.
š§¼ Care and Grooming
Despite their curls, LaPerms are low-maintenance when it comes to grooming.
Care tips:
- Weekly brushing or combing to keep the curls tangle-free
- Avoid over-grooming, which can disrupt the coatās natural curl
- Regular nail trimming, dental care, and ear checks
- Occasional bath if needed, but most LaPerms stay fairly clean
Their coats donāt shed excessively and are often tolerated by people with mild cat allergies (though they are not hypoallergenic).
They are generally healthy cats with no major breed-specific conditions.

Did You Know:
LaPerms can be born bald, straight-coated, or curlyāand often change coat texture as they grow, with full curls developing by around 2 years of age.
š” Ideal Home
The LaPerm is adaptable to almost any home, as long as it includes love, attention, and playtime.
Perfect for:
- Families, singles, or seniors
- Households with children or other pets
- People who want a unique-looking, affectionate companion
- Apartment or house livingāLaPerms are versatile and not overly vocal
These cats love companionship and will happily follow you from room to room or snuggle on your lap during downtime.
With their charming curls, friendly personality, and affectionate nature, the LaPerm is a cat that brings both style and sweetness to any home. Whether youāre seeking a quirky companion or a cuddly best friend, the LaPerm will curl its way right into your heart.