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Need to Know
- Great for first-time cat owners
- Enjoys playing games and is active at home
- Highly active and inquisitive cat
- Sociable and dependent cat
- Slightly talkative cat
- Average build cat breed
- Requires frequent grooming
- Needs outdoor space
- Great family cat
- Can be regularly left alone for a few hours
- Great for a relaxed home
Personality
The LaPerm cat breed is a charming blend of elegance and friendliness. Known for their easy going nature, LaPerms appreciate playtime and can even learn tricks. Though playful, they prefer a calmer environment and are not overly boisterous.
The LaPerm breed originated on an Oregon farm in the 1980s where hairless kittens began growing distinctive curly coats. After years of casual breeding, the farm owner recognized the unique nature of these cats and initiated a selective breeding program. This led to the creation of the LaPerm, a name reflecting their wavy fur.
Anyone looking for a smart, playful, and loving companion would likely enjoy owning a LaPerm cat.
Stimulate a LaPerm's playful side with cat trees, puzzle feeders that mimic hunting, and classic dangling toys. Once they've burned off energy, they'll happily unwind in your lap.
LaPerms are active cats that thrive with opportunities to play and explore. A secure, sheltered cat enclosure is ideal for a little outdoor stimulation.
Frequent grooming is essential for maintaining a LaPerm's coat health and provides an opportunity for bonding.
Intelligent and eager to please their owners, the LaPerm cat can learn basic commands and tricks.
The LaPerm cat can be a good family cat, but a calm household is key. High levels of noise and a lot of alone time could cause behavior issues.
The cost of a LaPerm from a breeder is significantly more than the cost of adopting one from a local shelter or rescue. The adoption fee usually covers additional items such as spaying or neutering, vaccines, and microchipping.
Learn more about feeding and caring for your LaPerm on Purina.
Did You Know?
- Surprisingly, many LaPerm kittens are born completely hairless. Their iconic curly coat develops over the first few months of life.
- LaPerm coats come in a wide range of textures, from tight curls to loose waves, and even some with straighter hair.
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Why Adopt a Second Cat?
There are benefits to having two cats, but they apply only when the two cats are well matched and have enough physical space to live together comfortably. One benefit is that the two cats provide each other with exercise, social interaction, and other forms of mental stimulation. Cats housed togeth