LaPerm

Breed Overview

Introduction

Lap cats are unique in the cat world for their distinctive curly coat, which gives them a casual and charming “gypsy fluffy” appearance.

However, their charm goes far beyond this. Affectionately known as “curly cuddlers,” these cats are known for their affectionate, lively, and highly affectionate nature.

Not only a visual treat, they are also a comfort to the soul, able to form deep emotional bonds with humans and actively participate in family life.

The emergence of Lap cats is the result of a natural genetic mutation, which allows them to have a unique appearance while retaining the strong physique and easy-going personality of their ancestors, the farm cats.

Breed History

The story of the LaPerm cat breed begins quite recently, in 1982, on a cherry farm in The Dalles, Oregon, USA.

The breed’s foundation cat was a kitten named Curly, born to a barn cat named Speedy. What made Curly unique was her birth: she was born completely bald, a stark contrast to her littermates. Over the next few months, Curly developed a soft, curly coat, a remarkable and unexpected “Rex” mutation.

Linda and Richard Koehl, the farm owners, were intrigued by Curly’s unusual appearance. Initially, they allowed a free-breeding colony of these curly-coated cats to develop naturally over a period of about ten years.

This unhurried approach to the breed’s development is quite distinct from how many modern breeds are established. By allowing natural selection to play a significant role in the early stages, a broader and more diverse gene pool was likely established before formal breeding programs began.

This organic development is believed to have contributed to the LaPerm’s inherent hardiness and general good health, as less robust traits may have naturally been selected against, leading to a strong genetic foundation.

The name “LaPerm” was chosen by Linda Koehl, meaning “wavy” or “rippled,” a direct reference to their distinctive coat. The naming also followed the Chinookan tradition of incorporating French words with a definite article, lending a unique cultural touch to the breed’s identity.

In the 1990s, the Koehls began working with members of the cat fancy, leading to the formal recognition of the LaPerm by various cat registries, including The International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA).

The curly coat gene in LaPerms is dominant and genetically unique, unrelated to other Rex cat varieties.

Physical Characteristics

The LaPerm is a medium-sized cat with an elegant and athletic build, often possessing a surprising amount of weight for their size. Females typically tend to be slightly smaller than males.

Their head is wedge-shaped with rounded contours, featuring a muzzle that is slightly broader than the wedge. In profile, a straight nose leads to a gentle break between their medium-large, almond-shaped eyes, which are set moderately far apart.

Their ears are medium to large and slightly flared, with the long-haired variety sometimes sporting lynx tips—pointed hairs growing from the ear tops.

Longer curly fur can often be found inside the ears, along with tufts at the ear tips and “ear muffs” of silky hair on the backs of the ears. A charming and distinctive feature is their curly whiskers.

The most defining characteristic of the LaPerm is undoubtedly its unique coat. This fur can range from soft waves to tight ringlet or corkscrew curls, giving the cat a perpetually “permed” appearance.

The coat is loose, springy, and stands away from the body, notably lacking a thick undercoat. This absence of a dense undercoat is a key factor in their surprisingly low-maintenance grooming needs, as it significantly reduces the likelihood of matting that often plagues other curly or long-haired breeds.

Behavior and Personality

The LaPerm breed is celebrated for its truly exceptional personality, often described as a perfect balance of playful energy and deep affection. They are inherently sweet, friendly, and easygoing, making them wonderful companions for a wide range of households.

LaPerms are highly people-oriented and crave companionship, forming strong bonds with their human families. They frequently follow their owners from room to room, seeking out lap time, enjoying cuddles, and often greeting their favorite humans with soft purrs and head butts.

This “dog-like” trait carries a significant implication for ownership: while incredibly loving, LaPerms demand considerable human interaction and mental engagement. If their needs for companionship and stimulation are not met—particularly if left alone for extended periods—they can become bored, which may lead to mischievous or even destructive behaviors.

Beyond their affectionate nature, LaPerms are also highly active, curious, and intelligent cats. Their playful demeanor often lasts well into adulthood, and they possess a goofy, mischievous side, sometimes even described as having a sense of humor.

Despite their high activity levels, LaPerms are generally not overly vocal and rarely meow, preferring to communicate through purrs, physical presence, and subtle cues.

This “quiet explorer” profile means that while they have abundant energy and curiosity, they tend to express it through action rather than constant vocalization, making them suitable for quieter homes or apartment living, provided their needs for indoor stimulation are met.

LaPerms typically get along very well with children, making them excellent family companions. Their gentle and patient disposition means they are more likely to retreat to a quiet spot if overwhelmed rather than showing aggression.

Care Guide

Diet

A balanced diet, rich in high-quality animal proteins, is fundamental for a LaPerm’s overall health and energy levels.

Given their active nature, it is crucial to provide a diet that supports their energy needs without leading to obesity, a common concern in all cat breeds.

Both wet and dry cat foods that are age-appropriate and meet the nutritional standards set by organizations like AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) can provide the necessary balance.

Exercise

LaPerms are highly energetic and playful cats with significant exercise needs. Their inquisitive and active nature means they require frequent play sessions to keep their energy levels balanced and their minds engaged.

For a breed as intelligent and curious as the LaPerm, physical exercise is not merely about burning calories; it is intrinsically linked to their mental well-being and serves as a primary means of intellectual stimulation and behavioral regulation.

Without adequate outlets for their inherent energy and curiosity, a LaPerm’s vibrant personality can manifest in undesirable ways.

To meet their exercise requirements, owners should provide a variety of interactive toys, such as puzzle feeders that mimic hunting, feather wands, and laser pointers. Incorporating climbing structures like cat trees, shelves, and ramps is essential, as LaPerms enjoy heights and exploring vertical spaces.

Environment & Enrichment

LaPerms are remarkably adaptable cats that can thrive in various living environments, from small apartments to larger houses, provided they have sufficient space to explore and play.

However, their adaptability should not be mistaken for low maintenance in terms of owner interaction and environmental quality. These cats deeply value the presence of their owners and thrive on companionship and interaction.

An ideal living space for a LaPerm should offer opportunities for both exploration and play, as well as peaceful areas for rest. It is crucial to provide a stimulating environment that caters to their need for mental and physical engagement.

Due to their coat’s texture, which is not well-suited for wet or windy weather, LaPerms are best kept as indoor cats. However, a secured balcony or a safe outdoor cat enclosure can provide valuable supervised outdoor stimulation.

A slightly humid environment can also benefit their unique curly coat, helping to keep their curls vibrant and prevent dryness.

Grooming

Despite their distinctive curly coats, LaPerms are surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. They shed very little compared to many other breeds, and their coats rarely get matted.

This ease of care is largely due to the absence of a thick undercoat, which is a common culprit for matting in other breeds. Furthermore, the unique structure of their curls tends to hold shed hair within the coat, preventing it from spreading widely throughout the home.

While often reputed to be “hypoallergenic,” it is important to clarify that no cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, as all cats produce allergens (primarily dander and saliva).

However, the LaPerm’s curly fur does help to trap dander close to the body rather than releasing it into the air, which can result in fewer allergens being dispersed and potentially fewer reactions for individuals with mild allergies.

For severe allergy sufferers, spending time with a LaPerm before committing to adoption is always recommended.

Weekly brushing with a wide-tooth comb or a gentle brush is generally sufficient to maintain their coat’s condition and remove any loose fur. A comb with revolving teeth is often recommended as it moves through the curls without pulling them straight.

It is worth noting that LaPerms may experience seasonal molting, which can lead to temporary thinning or even bald patches, but the coat typically grows back thicker and curlier afterward.

Mental Stimulation

LaPerms are highly intelligent, curious, and inquisitive cats, traits that persist well into their adult lives. This inherent mental agility means they require consistent mental stimulation to remain happy and well-adjusted.

For a LaPerm, physical activity and mental engagement are deeply intertwined; a stimulated mind often leads to a well-behaved cat.

Without adequate intellectual challenges, their active minds can quickly lead to boredom, manifesting as mischievous or even destructive behaviors.

Health Concerns

Is This Breed Right for You?

FAQ

Are LaPerm cats truly hypoallergenic? 

No cat breed is entirely hypoallergenic, as all cats produce allergens in their dander and saliva. However, LaPerms are often considered a better option for allergy sufferers because their unique curly coat sheds very little and tends to trap dander close to the body, preventing its widespread dispersion in the environment.  

How much grooming do LaPerms need? 

LaPerms are surprisingly low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Their coats rarely mat due to the lack of a thick undercoat. Weekly brushing with a wide-tooth comb is usually sufficient to keep their curls healthy and remove loose fur. Bathing is generally infrequent, only when necessary.  

What is the temperament of a LaPerm cat? 

LaPerms are known for their affectionate, people-oriented, and playful personalities. They are sweet, friendly, curious, and intelligent, often seeking out lap time and following their owners around the house. They form strong bonds and are generally easygoing.  

Are LaPerms good with children and other pets? 

Yes, LaPerms are typically gentle and patient, making them excellent companions for families with children. They also tend to get along very well with other cats and cat-friendly dogs, fitting harmoniously into multi-pet households.  

Do LaPerms shed a lot? 

No, LaPerms shed very little. Their curly coats are designed to hold onto shed hairs, which is why they are often considered a good choice for individuals sensitive to cat hair. They may experience seasonal molting, where their coat thins temporarily before growing back thicker.  

What are common health issues for LaPerms? 

LaPerms are generally a healthy breed with no known breed-specific genetic diseases. However, like all cats, they can be susceptible to common feline ailments such as diabetes, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), gingivitis, obesity, and urinary tract issues. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative care are essential.  

How long do LaPerm cats live? 

The average lifespan for a LaPerm cat is typically between 12 and 15 years. With excellent care and a healthy lifestyle, some LaPerms have been known to live up to 20 years.  

What is the average size/weight of a LaPerm? 

LaPerms are medium-sized cats. They generally weigh between 5 and 12 pounds (2.3-5.4 kg). Females are typically smaller than males.  

Where did the LaPerm breed originate? 

The LaPerm breed originated in The Dalles, Oregon, USA, in 1982. It began with a spontaneous genetic mutation in a barn cat’s litter, resulting in the first curly-coated kitten named Curly.  

Are LaPerms vocal cats? 

LaPerms are generally not overly vocal and are known to rarely meow. They tend to communicate more through purrs, physical presence, and their playful actions.  

Bonus Facts

A Name with Meaning

The name “LaPerm” directly translates to “wavy” or “rippled,” perfectly describing their signature curly coat. It also follows a unique Chinookan tradition of adopting French words.  

Unique Genetics

The curly coat of the LaPerm is caused by a dominant gene (the Lp gene) that is genetically unique to this breed and not related to the curly coat genes found in other Rex cat varieties.  

“Lappies” in England

In England, LaPerms are sometimes affectionately called “Lappies,” a playful nod to their strong preference for cuddling on their owner’s lap.  

Velcro Cats

LaPerms are often described as “velcro cats” due to their tendency to follow their owners from room to room, always eager to be involved in family activities and seeking out attention.  

Shoulder Riders

These curious and active cats enjoy heights and may even try to ride on their owner’s shoulders, seeking a higher vantage point to observe their surroundings.  

A Survivor’s Lineage

The foundation cat, Curly, famously had a brush with death early in her life when she climbed into the fan housing of a pickup truck to get warm and was nearly injured when the truck started. Her survival paved the way for the entire breed.  

Natural Hair Management

The unique curl structure of the LaPerm’s coat naturally helps to hold shed hair in place, reducing the amount of loose fur scattered around the house.

References

“Chinook Jargon Phrasebook – Ikt Chinook Wawabook”. fortlangley.ca. 24 May 2003. Retrieved 25 July 2022.

“Archived copy” (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 15 October 2017. Retrieved 15 October 2017.

LaPerm Colours Archived 3 October 2011 at the Wayback Machine

“The International Cat Association, Inc”. tica.org. Archived from the original on 4 February 2009. Retrieved 17 January 2022.

“The LaPerm Society of America Home Page”. Lapermcats.com. Retrieved 21 December 2017.

“Archived copy”. Archived from the original on 16 April 2014. Retrieved 15 April 2014.

GCCFcats. org Archived 20 December 2007 at the Wayback Machine

“RULES OF REGISTRATION” (PDF). cfa.org. Retrieved 5 May 2021.

“La Perm Cat Club”. Laperm.co.uk. Retrieved 25 July 2022.