Introduction
The LaPerm is a breed originated from a natural mutation giving a curly coat in both longhaired (LPL) and shorthaired (LPS) cats. It is a medium sized cat of moderate type.
History
The LaPerm emerged around the early 1980s as a spontaneous mutation of cats bred for pest control. The breed founders were Linda and Richard Koehl from The Dalles, Oregon (US), whose cat Speedy gave birth to a curly-coated kitten, named Curly, from whom all LaPerms descend. The Kohls allowed a free-breeding colony of curly-coated cats to develop over a period of ten years before making contact with members of the cat fancy and initiating a formal breeding program. The breed was first recognised by the cat fancy in 1990-ies; by FIFe since 2015.
Appearance
The LaPerm is in many ways a cat of moderation with no extremes, it does however have an unusual curly and wavy coat. The coat is loose and springy and stands away from the body. The coat is essentially wavy or curly with the longest and most defined curls in the ruff and on the neck. The longhairs have a curly plumed tail, while the shorthairs have tails rather like bottle brushes, and both have long curled whiskers. The LaPerms have a muscular foreign-type body, which is medium in size with longish legs and neck. The head is a modified wedge with rounded contours, the eyes are fairly large almond-shaped.
Temperament
LaPerms are affectionate, active, and easy-going in character. They seek human contact and are very curious about their surroundings. They like to play but also just having a relaxing nap in human lap.
Breed Standard
Last modification of the Standard: 2024