LaPerm Cats: The Curly-Coated Beauties You Should Know

A LaPerm is one of those cat breeds that turns heads instantly. The coat looks like soft curls and loose waves, and it feels light and springy to the touch. Breed organisations describe the LaPerm as affectionate and people-focused, which means the personality often matches the cute look.

This article, LaPerm Cats: The Curly-Coated Beauties You Should Know, explains what makes the breed special, what daily life looks like with one, and how to care for that famous curly coat without stress.

The curly coat is natural, not a grooming trick

LaPerms exist because of a natural genetic mutation. The breed began on an Oregon farm in the early 1980s, when a kitten was born bald and later grew a curly coat. That kitten became the starting point of the LaPerm breed.

LaPerms can be longhaired or shorthaired, and they can appear in many colours and patterns.

Some even have curly whiskers, which adds to the “storybook cat” look.

Personality: affectionate, social, and involved

Many LaPerm owners choose the breed for the temperament, not only the coat. LaPerms are often described as friendly, interactive, and strongly bonded to their humans.

In daily life, a LaPerm often acts like a tiny housemate that wants to be nearby. Common behaviours include:

• following people around the home
• sitting close during work or rest time
• asking for attention with gentle head bumps or quiet presence

This “friendly cats” energy can suit homes with families, singles, or people who want a companion cat that feels connected.

Grooming: light care, gentle tools

The curly coat looks fancy, but care can stay simple. Breed guidance often describes the coat as easy to care for. Regular combing helps keep curls neat and reduces tangles, especially for longhaired LaPerms.

A beginner-friendly cat grooming routine:

1. Use a wide-tooth comb or a gentle comb that will not pull
2. Comb two or three times per week
3. Check the areas most likely to tangle, such as behind the ears, under the arms, and around the collar area
4. If the curls look “flat,” a light mist of water or damp hands can help set the curl again

Heavy brushing can pull curls out and make the coat look frizzy. A gentle approach keeps the texture looking its best.

Health: generally hardy, still needs basics

Some breed sources describe LaPerms as hardy and suitable for many households. Even with a healthy breed, the basics still matter: regular vet checks, dental care, parasite prevention, and a balanced diet.

Is this breed a good match for your home?

A LaPerm can be a great choice if you want a cat that is:

• affectionate and people-oriented
• unique looking with a true curly coat
• manageable for everyday owners, not only “expert cat people”

LaPerm Cats: The Curly-Coated Beauties You Should Know is a reminder that a standout appearance does not have to mean complicated care. Curls bring the charm, but the loving personality is what makes many people stay obsessed with the breed.

LaPerm Cats: The Curly-Coated Beauties You Should Know is also a helpful starting point when choosing between rare breeds. The best next step is meeting one in real life, because the LaPerm vibe makes more sense the moment those curls walk into the room.