The LaPerm is a people-oriented cat best known for a soft, curly or wavy coat that feels as distinctive as it looks. This uncommon American breed began with a naturally occurring curly-coated kitten born on an Oregon farm in 1982, and it has since won fans for its friendly, curious nature.
LaPerm Cat Appearance and Coat
LaPerms are medium-sized cats, commonly weighing about 6 to 10 pounds, with a lithe, athletic build and moderately long legs. Their almond-shaped eyes and alert expression complement a coat that may be short or long, in nearly any color or pattern. The curls can range from loose waves to springy ringlets, often with especially noticeable curls around the ears, neck, and belly. Curly whiskers and eyebrows are common.
Some LaPerm kittens are born with curls, while others arrive with straight coats or little hair and develop their adult coat as they grow. Coat texture and curl can change during kittenhood and sometimes after a shed, so a young kitten’s appearance may not predict exactly how its mature coat will look. The breed also includes straight-coated cats; a straight coat does not have the signature curls but can still occur in LaPerm lines.
Personality and Family Life
LaPerms are generally affectionate, inquisitive, and active without being constantly demanding. Many enjoy following their people from room to room, settling nearby, and joining in play. They tend to be clever and may enjoy puzzle feeders, fetch, or learning simple routines. Individual cats vary, but a LaPerm often prefers company to long stretches of being ignored.
With gradual introductions, many adapt well to children and other friendly pets. Give a new cat a quiet retreat and supervise early interactions, especially with young children. A cat tree, sturdy shelves, and daily interactive play help this agile breed stay engaged indoors. If you are comparing breeds or planning ahead, CatHatch lets you browse available kittens and breeders.
Grooming a LaPerm
Despite its curls, the LaPerm’s coat is often relatively easy to maintain. Comb it gently about once or twice a week, adjusting to the individual cat’s coat length and tendency to tangle. A wide-tooth comb can help separate curls without pulling them out; vigorous brushing may flatten the coat and create frizz. Check behind the ears, under the legs, and around the tail for small mats.
Baths are not usually needed unless the coat becomes dirty or greasy. When bathing is necessary, use a cat-safe shampoo, rinse thoroughly, and let the coat air-dry without rubbing it with a towel to help preserve its curl. Like all cats, LaPerms need regular nail trims, dental care, and occasional ear checks. They are not hypoallergenic: no cat breed is reliably allergy-free, and reactions differ from person to person.
Health and Lifespan
LaPerms are generally considered a healthy breed, and there is no single widely recognized inherited disease that defines the breed. A typical lifespan is around 10 to 15 years, though individual longevity depends on genetics, preventive care, diet, and lifestyle. Schedule routine veterinary visits and keep up with vaccinations, parasite prevention, dental care, and weight checks.
Ask a breeder about the parents’ health history, veterinary care, and any screening recommended for their lines. A responsible breeder should welcome questions, provide records, and let you meet the kitten or see where it is raised. Before bringing a kitten home, plan for a gradual transition and a veterinary checkup. CatHatch can also help you browse available LaPerm kittens from breeders.
LaPerm Kitten Cost and Finding a Breeder
In the United States, a LaPerm kitten from a breeder may cost roughly $800 to $2,000, with location, pedigree, coat, and breeder practices affecting the price. The breed is less common than many popular cats, so availability can be limited and prices may fall outside that range. Adoption is another option, although LaPerms and LaPerm mixes may be harder to find in shelters.
Choose a breeder for transparency and kitten welfare, not simply for the lowest price or the curliest coat. Ask what the purchase price includes, such as age-appropriate vaccines, a veterinary exam, registration documents, and a written health agreement. Be cautious of sellers who will not answer questions, offer immediate shipping without screening, or promise that a LaPerm will not cause allergies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are LaPerm cats good pets?
They can be excellent companions for people who want an affectionate, curious cat and can provide daily attention and play. Their needs and sociability still vary by individual.
Do all LaPerm cats have curly hair?
No. The breed includes straight-coated cats, and some kittens develop their curls as they mature. Even a curly coat can change in texture or fullness over time.
Do LaPerm cats shed a lot?
Shedding varies by cat and coat length, and LaPerms do shed. Regular gentle combing can collect loose hair and help prevent tangles, but the breed is not shedding-free.
Are LaPerm cats hypoallergenic?
No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, including the LaPerm. People with allergies may react differently to individual cats, so spend time around one before making a commitment.
How much does a LaPerm cat cost?
Many U.S. breeder kittens cost about $800 to $2,000, though prices and availability vary. Check what care and documentation are included, and budget separately for food, supplies, and veterinary expenses.
