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    Hairless & Rex Group

    LaPerm

    A spontaneous curly-coat mutation from an Oregon barn. LaPerm coats range from soft loose ringlets (longhair) to tight wavy curls (shorthair), often with a unique 'tousled' look. They are gentle, affectionate and particularly people-oriented. Generally one of the healthiest pedigreed breeds.

    Chocolate tortoiseshell LaPerm cat with loose curly coat sitting on a windowsill

    Quick Facts

    Origin
    Oregon, USA (1982)
    Weight (M / F)
    8–12 / 5–8 lb
    Lifespan
    12–16 years
    Coat
    Loose curly coat in shorthair or longhair varieties
    Shedding
    low
    Hypoallergenic
    Often tolerated
    Energy
    ●●●○○ (3/5)
    Affection
    ●●●●● (5/5)
    Vocal
    ●●○○○ (2/5)
    Grooming need
    ●●○○○ (2/5)
    Climber
    ●●●●○ (4/5)
    Kid-friendly
    ●●●●● (5/5)
    Apartment OK
    Yes
    Indoor only
    Recommended
    Multi-pet OK
    Yes

    History & Origin

    LaPerm began in 1982 on an Oregon farm when a barn cat had a kitten with curls. The owner noticed many farm-cat descendants developed the trait. CFA recognized the breed in 2008.

    Temperament & Personality

    Gentle, affectionate, people-focused. LaPerms greet visitors and follow humans calmly.

    Health Watchouts

    Top conditions reported by CFA/TICA parent clubs, AAFP, the Winn Feline Foundation, and the Merck Veterinary Manual. Discuss screening with your vet — especially before breeding or insuring.

    Periodontal disease

    70%+ of cats by age 3

    Plaque hardens to tartar and inflames gums, leading to tooth loss and bacteremia.

    Screening: Annual oral exam; daily brushing or VOHC-approved dental treats; professional cleaning every 1–2 years

    Obesity

    ≈60% of indoor cats (AAHA)

    Excess weight increases risk of diabetes, arthritis, hepatic lipidosis and shortens lifespan by ~2 years.

    Screening: Monthly body condition score (target 4–5/9); measure all food; structured play 2× daily

    Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)

    Breed-elevated risk

    Thickening of the left ventricular heart wall — the most common heart disease in cats. Lower than other rex breeds; recommended to screen.

    Screening: Annual echocardiogram from a board-certified cardiologist; DNA test where available (Maine Coon, Ragdoll)

    Polycystic kidney disease

    Low

    Inherited renal cysts (from outcrossing).

    Screening: DNA test

    Skin conditions

    Rare

    Some lines develop dry skin.

    Screening: Veterinary dermatology if symptomatic

    Enrichment & Play

    Moderate play and climbing — good lap cats.

    • Cat trees
    • Wand toys
    • Puzzle feeders
    • Window perches
    • Companion cat

    Nutrition

    Daily calories: Adult: 210–280 kcal/day.

    Two measured meals daily.

    Common allergens to watch: Beef.

    ⚠ Body-score monthly.

    Grooming & Coat Care

    Wash and air-dry monthly to maintain curl pattern. Brushing flattens the curls — finger-comb instead.

    Cost of Ownership

    Lifetime cost depends on lifespan, vet care, and litter/food choices. Try our Lifetime Cost Calculator →

    Cost band for LaPerm: medium.

    Living Situation Fit

    Calm family homes; apartment-friendly.

    Choosing a Kitten

    Pet-quality kittens $700–$1,500.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are LaPerms hypoallergenic?

    Lower-than-average shedding helps, but no breed is fully hypoallergenic.

    Related breeds

    Selkirk Rex cat with thick plush curly cream coat sitting on a rustic wooden chair

    Selkirk Rex

    A 'cat in sheep's clothing' — Selkirk Rex have a thick plush curly coat that gives them a teddy-bear appearance. Calm and patient, more like the British Shorthair (a foundation breed) than the high-energy Cornish or Devon Rex. Both shorthair and longhair varieties exist.

    Devon Rex cat with curly soft coat and very large ears perched on a high bookshelf

    Devon Rex

    The pixie cat. Devon Rex have an elf-like face with huge low-set ears, big eyes and a soft wavy coat that feels like crushed velvet. They are mischievous, agile climbers who treat ceiling-height as natural terrain. Health watchouts include hereditary myopathy and HCM.

    Cornish Rex cat with curly white coat and slender greyhound-like body standing on a wooden floor

    Cornish Rex

    A slim greyhound-like cat with a marcel-waved curly coat. Cornish Rex are athletic, affectionate and warm to the touch — they have only the soft 'down' undercoat without guard hairs. They're high-energy, social and need warm indoor environments. Generally healthier than Devon Rex.

    Reviewed by PetHelpAnswers Editorial Team

    This profile is shared for informational and educational purposes only. Individual cats vary — always consult a licensed veterinarian for medical guidance.