American Curl
The American Curl is a medium-sized cat breed recognized for its uniquely curled-back ears, which give it a distinct appearance and an ever-alert, cheerful expression. Originating from California in 1981, all American Curls can trace their lineage to a stray longhaired black cat named Shulamith, who first displayed this spontaneous ear mutation.
Key Features
- Ears: The defining feature is the backward curl of the ears, which begins developing three to five days after birth and reaches its final shape around four months.
- Body: Moderately muscled, slender, well-balanced, and usually weighs 5–8 pounds for females and 7–10 pounds for males.
- Coat: Available in both shorthair and longhair varieties, both of which are silky and low-shedding. The coat can come in nearly any color or pattern.
- Eyes and Face: Walnut-shaped eyes and a modified wedge-shaped head enhance its unique appearance.
Temperament
- Personality: American Curls are affectionate, playful, and retain kitten-like behavior throughout their lives, often described as the "Peter Pan" of cats.
- Social: They are highly adaptable, well-suited for families with children or other pets, and thrive on human attention and companionship.
- Vocalization: Not overly vocal, but they may make soft cooing sounds to communicate.
Care and Health
- Grooming: Minimal grooming required; shorthair varieties need weekly brushing, while longhair Curls benefit from twice-weekly brushing to avoid tangling.
- Lifespan: On average, 13–16 years.
- Health: The curled ear gene is autosomal dominant and does not negatively affect the cat's health, but care should be taken to clean the ears regularly and gently to avoid injury.
Breed History
The breed began from a spontaneous mutation observed in a stray found in Lakewood, California, in 1981. Selective breeding began in the mid-1980s, with all modern American Curls tracing ancestry to Shulamith.
Summary Table
| Trait | Description |
|---|---|
| Ears | Curled backward, flexible, develop curling after birth |
| Coat | Short or semi-long, many colors and patterns |
| Weight | Females: 5–8 lbs, Males: 7–10 lbs |
| Personality | Playful, affectionate, people-oriented |
| Lifespan | 13–16 years |
| History | Originated in California, 1981, from a stray |
The American Curl's unique looks, friendly temperament, and ease of care make it a cherished companion in many households.