The LaPerm is a curious cat that developed by chance in Oregon, USA, relatively recently. It is a unique breed that, although it was unusual to see it, today it can be found in other countries, thanks to its unique morphology. In addition, it is also one of the cat breeds that stands out for its character, docility and affection. Want to know more about the LaPerm? Continue reading this PlanèteAnimal page, we explain everything about this breed of cat!
Origin
- America
- United States
FIFe Rating
- Category II
Physical Characteristics
- Thick Tail
- Strong
Size
- Average
Average Weight
- 3-5
Life expectancy
- 15-18
Character
- Active
- Affectionate
- Smart
- Curious
Climate
- Cold
Hair type
- Short
- Medium
- Long
Origin of LaPerm
This beautiful breed of cat was born from a genetic modification that occurred spontaneously in a litter born on a farm, specifically in the state of Oregon. With a curious peculiarity, some of the kittens were born hairless and only developed their coat a few months later.
Several breeders were attracted by these strange kittens, creating different breeding programs to develop the breed, which was recognized in 1997 by the creation of the LPSA club and a few years later the TICA established the standard of the LaPerm breed. These cats are considered a hypoallergenic breed, as they hardly shed hair.
LaPerm Features
LaPerms are medium-sized cats, weighing between 3 and 5 kilos in females and 4 and 6 kilos in males, who are also a bit larger.Their body is strong and fibrous, with a marked musculature hidden by their coat. Their strong hind legs are slightly longer than the front legs. The tail is wide at the base and slightly thinner at the tip and has a long, dense coat.
The head is, like the body, of medium size with a triangular shape and ending in a long snout whose nose is also long and straight. It is surmounted by large triangular ears with small tufts similar to those of a lynx. Her eyes are oval in shape and the color matches that of her dress.
As to the coat, there are two varieties, the long-haired LaPerm and the short or medium-haired LaPerm, both of which are recognized and whose colors and patterns can be any of the possibilities that exist, there is no limitation in this regard. The most peculiar feature is that his hair is curly.
LaPerm character
LaPerm breed cats are incredibly affectionate, they love to have their owners give them their full attention and spend hours upon hours petting and pampering them. It is therefore understandable that they do not tolerate loneliness well, and therefore it is not advisable to give them too much time alone. They are very obedient and intelligent cats, so many decide to teach them various tricks which they learn with pleasure.
They adapt to their environment almost anywhere, whether it's a small apartment, a large house or an outdoor space. They also adapt to all companies, children, other cats and any other pet, although we must always socialize them at an early age. Otherwise, they may show behavioral problems, such as fear or aggression, as adults.
How to care for a LaPerm cat?
The time needed to maintain the cat's coat will depend on its length. Thus, if our cat has long hair, we will have to brush it daily to avoid knots and hairballs, while if it has medium or short hair, a few weekly brushings will be enough to keep its coat soft and smooth. bright. Although these cats are very calm, it will be advisable to give them time to play and exercise, as this is how we will manage to balance them and keep them physically and mentally he althy.
In the market there are many toys that we can buy or, if we prefer, there are also many homemade toys that we can make ourselves. There are thousands of ideas for preparing them. If we have children, they can help us and make toys for the family pet, an activity they will enjoy!
LaPerm Cat He alth
Due to its origins, the LaPerm breed is relatively he althy, as no congenital diseases have been recorded, but these cats may suffer from other common cat diseases. We will therefore have to keep them vaccinated and wormed, thus avoiding fleas, worms and viral and bacterial diseases that could put an end to their robust he alth. To maintain their he alth, it is recommended to visit the veterinarian regularly for examinations and vaccinations, following the corresponding vaccination schedule.