Picture this. It’s 1982 on a quiet cherry orchard in Oregon. A barn cat named Speedy has a litter, and one kitten comes out completely bald. Wrinkly. A little odd-looking, honestly.
Then something strange happens. Over the next few weeks, that bald kitten grows in a coat of soft, springy curls. Her owner names her Curly. And without meaning to, she just started a whole new breed.
That’s the LaPerm cat. A curly-coated sweetheart that looks like it got a perm and a personality to match. If you’ve ever wanted a cat that rides on your shoulder and follows you room to room, keep reading. This one might be your match.
| Origin | The Dalles, Oregon, USA (1982) |
| Weight (Male) | 8 to 10 lbs |
| Weight (Female) | 5 to 8 lbs |
| Lifespan | 12 to 15 years (some reach 18 to 20) |
| Coat | Curly/wavy rex coat, short and long varieties, with ringlets and curly whiskers |
| Colors | All colors and patterns accepted |
| Energy Level | Moderate to high |
| Grooming Needs | Low (don’t over-brush the curls) |
| Good With Kids | Yes |
| Good With Other Pets | Yes, with slow intros |
| Average Price | $800 to $2,000 from breeders |
- The LaPerm carries a dominant curly-coat gene (Lp), which makes it genetically different from the Cornish, Devon, and Selkirk Rex.
- LaPerm cats weigh 5 to 10 pounds and usually live 12 to 15 years, with a broad gene pool that keeps them generally healthy.
- The coat can shed out completely during a molt, then grow back thicker and curlier, sometimes after weeks of partial baldness.
- LaPerm cats shed very little but are not hypoallergenic, since they still produce the Fel d 1 allergen in saliva and skin.
- LaPerms are people-obsessed, affectionate shoulder-riders that hate being left alone for long stretches.
Where Did the LaPerm Cat Come From?
The LaPerm cat started as a happy accident on a cherry farm in The Dalles, Oregon, in 1982. A working barn cat named Speedy gave birth, and one kitten was born totally bald. That kitten, later named Curly, grew a soft curly coat over her first couple of months. She became the foundation of the whole breed.
Owner Linda Koehl didn’t set out to make a new cat. She just kept noticing curly kittens turning up in the next generations. Curly went on to have her own litters, and many of those babies were born bald too, then curled up the same way.
Over time, Linda taught herself feline genetics and worked with experts to figure out what was going on. The curl came from a single dominant gene, now nicknamed the Lp gene. Because it’s dominant, just one curly parent can pass it on.
How the breed got recognized
The name “LaPerm” nods to the curly perm hairstyle, with a French-sounding twist. Breeders formed a club in the late 1990s and worked to get the cat accepted by the big registries. The International Cat Association (TICA) granted the LaPerm championship status in 2003, and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) followed in 2008.
Early breeders did something smart. They outcrossed the LaPerm to ordinary domestic cats to widen the gene pool. That’s a big reason the breed stays pretty healthy today.
What Does a LaPerm Cat Look Like?
A LaPerm cat looks like a regular cat that wandered out of a salon. The coat is wavy to curly, soft, and a bit shaggy, with the tightest ringlets often showing up around the neck and on the belly. Even the whiskers curl, which is one of the easiest ways to spot one.
They’re small to medium cats. Most weigh 5 to 10 pounds, with males on the heavier end and females daintier. The body is athletic and lean, not chunky. They feel lighter in your arms than they look.
Short coat vs long coat
LaPerms come in two coat lengths, and both are curly. The shorthair has a wavy, slightly springy coat that hugs the body. The longhair has looser curls and ringlets, plus a curly plume of a tail and often a little ruff around the neck. Both feel soft and a touch dry to the touch, not silky like a Persian.
The breed comes in every color and pattern you can name. Tabbies, reds, tortoiseshells, chocolates, lilacs, colorpoints, you name it. Registries accept all of them, so no color is “wrong.”
The wild molt-and-regrow coat quirk
Here’s the LaPerm party trick nobody warns you about. The coat can molt out, sometimes almost completely, and then grow back. Many kittens are even born bald or nearly bald before their curls come in.
A LaPerm might shed heavily during a seasonal molt, go a bit patchy or thin, and then regrow a coat that’s often thicker and curlier than before. It can look alarming the first time. Don’t panic. For most LaPerms, this is just how their coat does its thing. Full baldness in adults is rare these days thanks to careful breeding.
Kitten vs adult
LaPerm kittens are a surprise package. Some arrive bald, some fuzzy, some with tight curls that loosen as they grow. The coat can change a lot during the first two years. LaPerms are slow to mature and don’t reach their full adult look until around two to three years old.
What Is the LaPerm Cat’s Personality Like?
If you want a cat that treats you like the center of the universe, the LaPerm delivers. These are deeply affectionate, people-oriented cats. They want to be near you, on you, or supervising whatever you’re doing.
The classic LaPerm move is the shoulder ride. Many will climb up and drape across your shoulders like a curly scarf. They’ll also pat your face with a paw, headbutt you, and curl up in your lap the second you sit down.
They’re not couch potatoes, though. LaPerms are curious, playful, and clever. They like to fetch, climb, and poke their nose into drawers and bags. Think of them as a gentle middle ground: busy and engaged, but cuddly and calm when you finally settle in.
Are LaPerm cats vocal?
LaPerm cats are talkative but not loud. They’ll chirp, trill, and have little conversations with you, especially when they want attention or food. They’re nowhere near as demanding as a Siamese, but they’re not silent furniture either.
Is the LaPerm Cat Right for You?
The LaPerm is right for you if you’re home a lot and want a velcro cat that’s part of everything you do. They thrive on company and bond hard with their people. Honestly, they’re one of the most loving breeds you’ll meet.
They’re a poor fit if you work long hours away and live alone. A LaPerm left by itself all day, every day, gets lonely and bored. If that’s your life, get two cats or pick a more independent breed.
A LaPerm is a great match if you:
- Want a cuddly, affectionate cat that follows you everywhere
- Are home often, or have other pets to keep one company
- Like a playful, clever cat that still enjoys lap time
- Want low shedding without a high-maintenance coat
Look elsewhere if you:
- Are gone all day and can’t give steady attention
- Want a quiet, aloof, do-its-own-thing cat
- Need a truly hypoallergenic cat (no such cat exists)
- Aren’t willing to search and wait, since they’re genuinely rare
Do LaPerm Cats Have Health Problems?
LaPerm cats are generally healthy, and that’s not just breeder talk. Because the early breeders outcrossed to regular domestic cats, the breed has a wide gene pool and no curl-linked illness tied to the coat. The dominant Lp gene affects the fur, not the cat’s health.
That said, no breed is bulletproof. LaPerms can develop the same common feline issues any cat can, so keep an eye on the usual suspects.
- Dental disease: Common in all cats; regular dental care helps.
- Kidney issues with age: Worth watching in senior cats through routine bloodwork.
- Obesity: Easy to prevent with measured meals and play.
A responsible breeder screens their cats and is upfront about the lines they use. Ask about the health of the parents and grandparents.
This guide is educational, not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your LaPerm shows sudden weight loss, drinks far more water than usual, stops eating, or struggles to pee, call your vet right away. Yearly checkups (twice yearly for seniors) catch most problems early.
How Do You Groom a LaPerm Cat?
Grooming a LaPerm is refreshingly easy, and the golden rule is don’t overdo it. The curl is the whole point, and aggressive brushing straightens it out and creates frizz. A gentle comb-through a couple of times a week is plenty.
Use a wide-toothed comb, ideally one with revolving or rolling teeth, to lift out loose hair without dragging the curl flat. Longhaired LaPerms need a bit more attention around the ruff and belly where tangles like to hide. Shorthairs barely need anything.
Bathing and the curl
LaPerms don’t need frequent baths. When you do bathe one, skip the blow-dryer. Heat and air make the coat frizz. Let it air dry, and a light mist of water afterward can actually help the curls spring back into shape. Weird, but it works.
The rest of the routine is standard cat stuff. Trim the nails every couple of weeks, check the ears, and brush the teeth if your cat tolerates it. That’s really it.
What Should You Feed a LaPerm Cat?
LaPerm cats don’t have special dietary needs, so feed them like the healthy obligate carnivores they are. Pick a quality cat food where a named meat sits at the top of the ingredient list, and make sure it’s complete and balanced for your cat’s life stage.
These are active cats, but small ones, so portion control matters. Free-feeding dry food is the fast lane to a chubby LaPerm. Measure meals, and lean on wet food to keep water intake up and support kidney and urinary health.
Always keep fresh water available. Some cats drink more from a fountain than a bowl, which is an easy win for a breed you want well-hydrated for the long haul.
How Much Exercise Does a LaPerm Cat Need?
LaPerm cats have moderate to high energy and need daily play to stay happy. They’re climbers and explorers, so a tall cat tree, some shelves, and a window perch go a long way. A bored LaPerm will invent its own entertainment, usually involving your stuff.
Set aside two short play sessions a day. Wand toys, fetch (yes, many LaPerms fetch), and puzzle feeders all hit the mark. Because they’re so people-focused, interactive play with you beats solo toys every time.
A sturdy cat tree gives your LaPerm a place to climb, scratch, and survey its kingdom, which keeps the curious energy aimed at something other than your curtains.
Frisco 72-Inch Cat Tree
A tall, multi-level cat tree gives your climbing-loving LaPerm vertical space, scratching posts, and a high perch to nap on. It suits active small-to-medium cats that like to be up where the action is.
How Do LaPerm Cats Do With Kids, Dogs, and Other Cats?
LaPerm cats are one of the friendlier breeds for a busy household. They’re gentle, patient, and social, which makes them a solid pick for families.
With kids: LaPerms usually love the attention and play that kids bring. They’re tolerant and rarely the type to swat first. As always, teach children to be gentle and give the cat an escape route.
With dogs: A calm, cat-friendly dog and a LaPerm often become buddies. Their easygoing nature helps. Do slow, supervised introductions and let them set the pace.
With other cats: LaPerms generally enjoy feline company, and a second cat can be a lifesaver if you’re out a lot. Introduce new cats gradually, swapping scents before any face-to-face meeting.
How Long Do LaPerm Cats Live?
LaPerm cats typically live 12 to 15 years, and plenty reach 18 to 20 with good care. Their broad gene pool and generally robust health work in their favor.
To help your LaPerm age well, stay on top of vet visits, keep their weight in check, and adjust care as they get older.
- Kitten to adult (0 to 2 years): Expect the coat to change; keep up with vaccines and lots of play.
- Adult (3 to 9 years): Maintain weight, dental care, and yearly checkups.
- Senior (10+ years): Switch to twice-yearly vet visits, watch for kidney and thyroid changes, and add soft bedding and easy litter box access.
How Much Does a LaPerm Cat Cost?
A LaPerm kitten from a reputable breeder usually runs $800 to $2,000, depending on lineage, location, coat, and whether it’s pet or show quality. They’re rare, so prices skew higher than common breeds and waitlists are normal.
The kitten price is just the start. Budget for the first year and ongoing care too.
| Cost | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Kitten from a breeder | $800 to $2,000 |
| Initial setup (litter box, tree, supplies) | $150 to $400 |
| First-year vet care (vaccines, spay/neuter) | $200 to $500 |
| Food and litter (yearly) | $400 to $800 |
| Routine vet care (yearly) | $150 to $400 |
If a “breeder” offers a LaPerm dirt cheap with no paperwork and no questions, walk away. Bargain prices usually mean a backyard operation with no health screening.
Where Can You Find a LaPerm Cat Ethically?
Finding a LaPerm takes patience because the breed is genuinely rare. Your best bet is a registered breeder through TICA or the CFA, or a LaPerm breed club. Be ready to join a waitlist and travel.
Signs of a good breeder:
- Registered with TICA or CFA and happy to show paperwork
- Raises kittens in the home, not in cages
- Lets kittens go at 12 weeks or later, vaccinated and vet-checked
- Asks you plenty of questions and offers a health guarantee
Red flags to avoid:
- Multiple breeds for sale and kittens always “available now”
- No health records, no contract, no questions about you
- Pushes you to pay fast or meet in a parking lot
Rescue is a long shot for a breed this uncommon, but it happens. Check breed-specific rescues and rex or curly-cat networks, and let general shelters know what you’re after.
LaPerm vs Other Curly and Rex Cats
People mix up the curly breeds all the time, so here’s the quick untangle. The LaPerm has its own dominant curly gene and isn’t related to the other rex cats, even though they all look a little wavy.
| Breed | Coat gene | What sets it apart |
|---|---|---|
| LaPerm | Dominant (Lp) | Soft ringlets, short and long coats, can molt and regrow curlier |
| Cornish Rex | Recessive | Very short, tight wavy down with no guard hairs; sleek and slim |
| Devon Rex | Recessive (different from Cornish) | Loose curls, huge ears, pixie face |
| Selkirk Rex | Dominant (different from LaPerm) | Plush, dense curls; stockier “teddy bear” build |
Similar breeds to consider
- Selkirk Rex: Another dominant-gene curly cat, but plusher and calmer.
- Cornish Rex: Curly, slim, and high-energy if you want a more athletic clown.
- Devon Rex: Big-eared, mischievous, and equally people-obsessed.
- Ragdoll: Not curly, but if it’s the cuddly shoulder-cat vibe you’re after, a Ragdoll scratches that itch.
Common Myths About LaPerm Cats
Myth 1: LaPerm cats are hypoallergenic
This is the big one, and it’s false. No cat is truly hypoallergenic. LaPerms shed less and their curls trap some loose hair, so allergy sufferers sometimes react less. But LaPerms still make the Fel d 1 protein in saliva and skin that triggers allergies. Always spend time with one before committing.
Myth 2: That curly coat must be high-maintenance
Nope. The LaPerm coat is actually low-maintenance and mat-resistant. A comb-through twice a week is enough, and over-brushing does more harm than good by killing the curl.
Myth 3: A LaPerm is just a fancy Cornish Rex
Wrong cat entirely. The LaPerm has its own dominant curl gene and a totally separate origin story. The Cornish Rex carries a different, recessive gene and has a much sleeker, shorter coat.
LaPerm Cat FAQ
Q: Are LaPerm cats hypoallergenic?
No, LaPerm cats are not hypoallergenic. They shed less than many breeds and their curls hold loose hair, which can mean fewer allergens floating around. But they still produce the Fel d 1 allergen, so no cat is fully allergy-safe. Spend time with one first.
Q: Do LaPerm cats shed?
LaPerm cats shed very little day to day, partly because the curly coat holds loose hairs against the body. They can have heavier seasonal molts, though, and some shed out a lot of coat that then grows back curlier. Overall they’re a low-shedding breed.
Q: How much is a LaPerm cat?
A LaPerm kitten from a reputable breeder usually costs $800 to $2,000, depending on lineage, coat, and whether it’s pet or show quality. Because the breed is rare, prices run higher than common breeds and waitlists are common.
Q: Are LaPerm cats rare?
Yes, LaPerm cats are genuinely rare. The breed only began in 1982 and stays uncommon worldwide. Finding one usually means contacting a registered breeder, joining a waitlist, and being willing to travel.
Q: Why do LaPerm cats lose their fur?
LaPerm cats can go through molts where they shed heavily, sometimes thinning out or going partly bald, then regrow a coat that’s often thicker and curlier. Many kittens are even born bald. For most LaPerms this is normal, though sudden hair loss with itching or sores still warrants a vet visit.
Q: LaPerm vs Devon Rex, what’s the difference?
The LaPerm has a soft, ringleted coat in short or long lengths and carries a dominant curl gene. The Devon Rex has a finer, looser curl, oversized ears, and a pixie face, with a different recessive gene. Both are affectionate, but the breeds aren’t related.
Q: Are LaPerm cats good pets?
LaPerm cats make excellent pets for people who want an affectionate, social companion. They’re gentle, playful, great with kids and other pets, and famously love to ride on shoulders and sit in laps. They do best in homes where they aren’t left alone all day.
Q: How long do LaPerm cats live?
LaPerm cats typically live 12 to 15 years, and many reach 18 to 20 with good care. The breed is generally healthy thanks to a wide gene pool, so routine vet care, a quality diet, and a healthy weight go a long way.
Final Verdict: Should You Get a LaPerm Cat?
If you want a cat that genuinely adores you, the LaPerm cat is hard to beat. They’re affectionate, playful, gentle with the whole family, and they come wrapped in a one-of-a-kind curly coat that’s easy to care for. The shoulder rides alone might sell you.
Just go in with open eyes. They need company and don’t love being alone all day, they’re rare enough to require real patience to find, and they’ll cost you $800 to $2,000 plus the wait. They’re also not the hypoallergenic miracle some people hope for.
But if you’re home a lot and want a devoted, curly little shadow, the LaPerm cat will reward you with years of headbutts, chirps, and lap time. For the right person, that’s an easy yes.
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