The LaPerm cat is a charming breed known for its distinctive curly coat and affectionate nature. With its soft, wavy fur, the LaPerm is as playful and curious as it is loving, making it a wonderful companion for any home. Whether it’s their signature ringlet curls or their friendly personality, these cats quickly steal the spotlight.

In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about the LaPerm from its appearance and temperament to care tips and what to expect when bringing a LaPerm kitten into your family.

LaPerm Cat Personality & Temperament

The LaPerm cat is known for its warm, affectionate nature and playful demeanor. This breed’s charming personality makes them ideal companions for various types of households. Here’s a closer look at their temperament:

Affection Level: Are LaPerms Lap Cats?

Yes! LaPerm cats are incredibly affectionate and love to be near their human companions. They are often described as “lap cats” because they enjoy curling up on their owner’s lap or sitting close to them. They thrive on physical attention and enjoy bonding through petting and cuddling. If you’re someone who enjoys having a furry friend close by, the LaPerm is likely to be an excellent fit.

Social & Playful: Interaction with Humans, Strangers, and Other Pets (Dogs & Cats)

LaPerms are social cats that love interacting with people, including strangers. They are friendly and outgoing, making them great pets for families, children, and even households with guests or new faces. Their gentle, inquisitive nature makes them eager to explore new environments, and they tend to warm up quickly to visitors.

As for other pets, LaPerms usually get along well with other cats and dog-friendly dogs. Their playful attitude means they will enjoy sharing their space with other animals, though, like any cat, they prefer to have their own territory. It’s essential to introduce them properly to ensure they feel safe and comfortable in multi-pet households.

Intelligence & Trainability: Ease of Training and Love for Games (e.g., Fetch)

LaPerms are highly intelligent and quick learners, making them easy to train. They enjoy engaging in interactive activities and are often found playing fetch or learning new tricks. Their natural curiosity and playfulness make them excellent companions for puzzle games, toys, or even training sessions. Whether it’s chasing after a ball or learning commands, the LaPerm is up for the challenge.

Their intelligence also means they can easily figure out how to get what they want, whether that’s a treat, attention, or access to a higher perch. They are problem-solvers, often using their cleverness to entertain themselves and their owners.

Vocalization: Are LaPerms Chatty?

LaPerms are generally not known for being excessively vocal. They tend to communicate with soft purring, chirping, or meowing, but they’re not as chatty as some other breeds. While they enjoy being around people, they don’t demand constant attention with loud meows. Their quiet demeanor can be a pleasant trait for those who prefer a less vocal cat, but they will express their needs clearly when they want attention, food, or to be let outside.

Activity Needs: Energy Level and Boredom Prevention

The LaPerm is an energetic breed that loves to stay active and engaged. While they enjoy cuddling, they also have a curious and lively side. They are not couch potatoes and prefer to be involved in family activities. A LaPerm will happily chase after toys, climb cat trees, and explore its environment.

Due to their active nature, LaPerms require regular playtime and mental stimulation to keep them happy. Interactive toys, such as laser pointers, feather wands, or puzzle feeders, are perfect for providing the physical and mental exercise they need. Without sufficient stimulation, they may become bored and potentially destructive, so ensuring they have outlets for their energy is crucial.

Appearance: The Signature Curly Coat

Coat Type: Shorthair vs. Longhair LaPerm (Differences in Curl, Length, and Texture)

The LaPerm comes in two distinct coat types: Shorthair and Longhair, and each has its own characteristics when it comes to curl, texture, and overall look.

• Shorthair LaPerm: These cats have shorter coats with wavy to loose curls. Their fur has a bit more texture compared to the longhair version and is softer and denser, with some variation in curl tightness. Shorthair LaPerms typically have a bottlebrush tail—a unique feature where the tail is short and spiky, lacking the length and volume seen in long-haired varieties.
• Longhair LaPerm: The longhaired LaPerm is distinguished by tighter ringlets, especially along the neck and ruff, where the curls are the most defined. Their tails are plumed, with long, curly fur that adds to their majestic look. Their coat also tends to have a thicker, fuller texture, with a more dramatic appearance of voluminous curls cascading down the body.

Coat Color and Patterns: The Diversity of LaPerm Colors

One of the most striking aspects of the LaPerm cat is the variety of colors and patterns they can have. The breed is highly adaptable when it comes to color, and LaPerms can be found in almost any shade. Some common colors include:

• Solid colors: White, black, blue, and red
• Shaded colors: Cream, chocolate, cinnamon, fawn, and lavender
• Patterns: LaPerms also come in various patterns, including tabby, tortoiseshell, and colorpoint. The early days of the breed saw a focus on colors like lilac and chocolate, which are still popular today.

LaPerms’ coat patterns can be diverse and eye-catching, and no two LaPerms are quite the same in appearance. Their curly fur adds an extra element to any color or pattern, giving the breed a distinctive and playful look.

Physical Characteristics (Size, Weight, Head Shape, Eyes, and Ears)

Beyond their curly coats, the LaPerm is a medium-sized cat with a graceful, elegant build. They are muscular but not bulky, giving them a lean, athletic appearance.

• Size and Weight:
  • Adult females typically weigh between 5 to 8 pounds.
  • Adult males are slightly larger, usually weighing between 7 to 10 pounds.
• Head Shape: The LaPerm has a modified wedge-shaped head with rounded contours and a slightly broad muzzle. Their faces are graceful and smooth, with no harsh angles.
• Eyes: Their eyes are medium to large, almond-shaped, and expressive. These captivating eyes contribute to their charming, attentive expression.
• Ears: LaPerm cats have flared ears that are medium in size and stand upright. The ears often have tufts of fur, and the inner ear is typically covered with long, curly hair.

The Coat’s Development: Kitten Coats and the “Molting” Phase

LaPerm kittens are born with straight fur, but as they grow, they begin to develop the characteristic curls for which the breed is known. The first signs of curling usually start to appear within the first few weeks of life, with the tightest curls forming around the throat, belly, and base of the ears. As the kitten matures, the curls become more pronounced and the coat starts to take on its full form.

• Molting Phase: Like many cats, LaPerms go through a molting phase, particularly during seasonal changes. This phase can cause the coat to shed slightly or appear less defined, but the curls will grow back as the coat regrows in its characteristic wavy or curly texture. Regular grooming during this phase helps to keep the coat in top shape and minimize tangles.

LaPerm Cat Price & Budgeting

When considering adding a LaPerm cat to your family, one of the key factors to keep in mind is the price. LaPerms are a relatively rare breed, and their unique curly coat, affectionate personality, and medium size come with a certain cost. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when budgeting for a LaPerm cat:

Price Range for LaPerm Cats

• Adoption Price: If you’re adopting from a shelter or breed-specific rescue, the cost will typically range between $100 to $200. However, this may vary depending on the shelter’s policies and whether the cat has been spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and given a clean bill of health.
• Purchasing from Breeders: The price of a LaPerm cat purchased from a breeder will be significantly higher. Expect to pay between $800 to $1,500, depending on factors such as:
  • Pedigree: Cats from show-quality bloodlines or with superior genetic traits (such as color or coat texture) will be priced higher.
  • Coat Type: Longhaired LaPerms often cost more than shorthairs, due to the extra care and grooming required for their lush, curly coats.
  • Location and Reputation: Breeders in areas with a higher cost of living or those with a long history and reputation in breeding LaPerms may charge more.

Initial Costs

Aside from the price of the cat itself, you’ll need to budget for some initial expenses that are typical when bringing a new cat into your home. These can include:

• Initial Veterinary Care: This typically includes vaccinations, spaying/neutering, a microchip, and a thorough health check-up. Expect to spend between $100 to $300.
• Basic Supplies: A litter box, scratching post, cat bed, food and water bowls, and toys will cost anywhere from $50 to $200 depending on the quality of the items you choose.
• Grooming Supplies: While LaPerms don’t require a lot of grooming, you’ll still need to invest in a few essential items like brushes (especially for longhaired varieties), nail clippers, and ear cleaning supplies. This could add $30 to $100 to your budget.

Ongoing Costs

Once you bring your LaPerm home, there are some ongoing expenses to consider to ensure they stay healthy and happy:

• Food: LaPerms require a high-quality diet rich in protein, such as chicken or fish-based food. Premium brands can cost between $30 to $60 per month depending on your cat’s size and eating habits.
• Litter: Depending on the type of litter you prefer, expect to spend around $10 to $20 per month on litter.
• Routine Vet Visits: Regular vet check-ups, vaccinations, and flea treatments will cost around $100 to $200 per year.
• Grooming: If you opt to have your LaPerm groomed professionally, longhaired cats may require regular grooming sessions. Grooming appointments can range from $50 to $100 per session, especially if you want to maintain the coat’s curl.

Given their expected lifespan of 12-15 years, you should budget for the total lifetime cost of owning a LaPerm. This can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on your choices for food, vet visits, grooming, and emergency medical care.

LaPerm Cat Care & Grooming

Grooming Requirements for the Curly Coat

The LaPerm’s signature curly coat is both beautiful and unique, ranging from soft waves in shorthairs to tight ringlets in longhairs. Maintaining this coat is relatively straightforward, but attention to detail helps keep the curls healthy and defined. LaPerms are not prone to excessive sebum, unlike some other rex breeds, so their coats rarely become greasy or matted.

Hand-grooming or using a wide-toothed comb with revolving teeth is ideal, as this allows you to gently move through the hair without pulling out curls. Focus on areas where the hair is longest, such as the ruff and tail, and pay attention during seasonal moulting periods, when dead hair can become trapped in the curls.

Brushing Frequency and Tools

Brushing is generally minimal for LaPerms. For shorthaired cats, occasional combing suffices, while longhairs may benefit from more frequent grooming during shedding seasons. Avoid narrow-toothed combs, which can straighten the curls and damage delicate hair. A few gentle strokes, in both directions along the hair growth, will prevent tangles and keep the coat springy and voluminous.

Regular checks of the ears, eyes, and chin can help prevent minor issues. Use a lightly dampened cotton ball for cleaning, and gently remove any black specs or debris. Nail trimming is recommended for all cats, as it prevents accidental scratches and keeps furniture intact.

Bathing Tips

Although LaPerms usually maintain a healthy coat without frequent baths, longhairs or lighter-colored cats may occasionally benefit from a bath. Always use warm water, keeping the head and ears dry. Massage a mild cat-specific shampoo thoroughly into the coat, reaching down to the skin and all folds, then rinse carefully. Curly-coat conditioners or shampoos designed for curly hair help maintain the natural ringlets. After bathing, squeeze out excess water, wrap your cat in a towel, and allow it to air-dry in a warm, calm environment. Avoid hair dryers, as they can frizz the curls. Once dry, light spritzing or scrunching can revive the curls and add definition.

Feeding & Nutrition

A LaPerm has moderate dietary needs, typical of a medium-sized, active cat. High-quality, protein-rich food with low carbohydrates supports lean muscle development and overall health. Including Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can enhance skin health and maintain a shiny, well-textured coat. Real meat or fish should be the primary ingredient, and fresh water should always be available.

Exercise and Enrichment

LaPerms are curious, energetic, and playful. They enjoy interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and games such as fetch or hide-and-seek. Cat trees, climbing shelves, and perches help satisfy their natural climbing instincts while providing mental and physical stimulation. These cats also enjoy spending time observing their environment, so window perches are an excellent addition to keep them entertained.

Housing Environment

LaPerms thrive in indoor environments where they are safe from predators, traffic, and harsh weather. While they can spend supervised time outdoors, indoor housing is generally recommended to reduce health risks. Providing a stimulating indoor environment with climbing structures, toys, and cozy resting spots ensures they remain happy, engaged, and physically fit.