The LaPerm: temperament, price, health, and breeders

The LaPerm is an American breed that appeared in Oregon in the early 1980s following a spontaneous genetic mutation. The first foundation female cat, nicknamed Curly, gave birth to a line recognized for its characteristic wavy coat. Its name refers to a perm, as a nod to its natural curls. The breed was officially recognized in the 1990s and remains today relatively rare.

The LaPerm is a medium-sized cat, of semi-foreign type, both supple, muscular and athletic. Its triangular head with softened contours has expressive slightly slanted eyes and medium well-set ears. Its most striking characteristic is its curly or wavy coat, short or semi-long depending on the variety, light, soft and supple, with whiskers often curled and, in semi-long subjects, a more visible ruff around the neck.

The LaPerm is a well-balanced, affectionate and intelligent cat, capable of appreciating moments of tenderness without becoming intrusive. It enjoys the presence of its household, is gentle with children and generally cohabits well with other animals when it is properly socialized. Its natural independence also allows it to cope reasonably well with periods of absence.

Curious and observant, the LaPerm likes to explore its environment, climb up high and keep an eye on what surrounds it. It is rather discreet vocally and often prefers a stimulating indoor life, with a cat tree, games and observation points. Playful without being hyperactive, it willingly alternates calm phases and moments of interaction.

The LaPerm responds well to gentle, consistent training based on positive reinforcement. Its curiosity and intelligence make it easier to learn household routines, the use of accessories, and small playful stimulations. As with most cats, it is advisable to avoid abrupt constraints and to favor short, regular sessions.

The LaPerm remains a fairly rare breed, which can influence its purchase price depending on the quality of the line, the reputation of the cattery, the pedigree and the coat variety. Assessing the breeder’s seriousness matters as much as the displayed price.

The LaPerm is considered a generally robust cat, with no major hereditary predisposition clearly established to date. It rarely gets sick when its lifestyle, diet and veterinary follow-up are appropriate. As with any cat, prevention remains essential to maintain this good health over time.

The LaPerm does not have very particular dietary requirements, but it benefits from a complete, digestible diet adapted to its age, activity level and body condition. The quality of the ration matters more than the sophistication of the formula.

The LaPerm owes its name to the naturally permed appearance of its coat. Although its appearance evokes other Rex breeds, it is a distinct breed, born spontaneously in the United States. Its founding ancestor, Curly, was discovered in a farm cat context, which partly explains its resourceful side and its alert temperament.