LaPerm

The LaPerm is a curly-coated domestic cat breed developed in the United States, originating from an unusual spontaneous genetic mutation on an Oregon farm.

The foundation feline appeared in 1982 when Linda and Richard Koehl noticed a hairless kitten named Curly in a barn litter in The Dalles, Oregon. Over several weeks, the female grew a soft curly pelt caused by a unique dominant mutation unlike any other rex gene. Selective breeding started a decade later to stabilize the wavy fleece. The International Cat Association granted championship status to the breed in 2002, and the Cat Fanciers' Association followed with full championship recognition in 2008. The Fédération Internationale Féline officially recognized both coat varieties in 2013.

Adult males weigh 3.5-5 kg (8-11 lb) and stand tall on slender legs with medium boning. The fur ranges from loose waves to tight ringlets, with the springiest curls gathered along the throat, belly, and ear bases. Both longhair and shorthair types exist in every color and pattern. Long, flexible whiskers curl outward from rounded whisker pads. Breed standards emphasize an affectionate, inquisitive personality. These cats actively seek human companionship, often riding across owners' shoulders, reaching with gentle paws toward faces, and purring during lap visits.

Weekly combing with a revolving-tooth metal comb keeps curls separated without damaging natural wave formation. Avoid electric blow-drying after bathing, as heated air causes the curly fleece to frizz. Instead, gentle towel drying and a light mist of clean water revive the hair curls. Health is generally robust thanks to an open outcrossing base with working domestic cats. The breed can occasionally develop pyruvate kinase deficiency, an inherited erythrocyte disorder causing regenerative anemia, as well as common feline issues like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.