LaPerm
The Good
- Minimal shedding makes them great for most Australian households
- Incredibly affectionate and loves being part of family activities
- Low-maintenance grooming despite their unique curly coat
- Excellent with children and adapts well to various living situations
The Real
- High energy needs require daily interactive play sessions
- Can become destructive if left alone for long periods
- Rare breed means finding breeders in Australia can be challenging
- Their curiosity means you'll need to cat-proof thoroughly
Gallery
Breed Overview
Meet the LaPerm - Australia's most charmingly dishevelled feline! With their signature curly coat that looks like they've just stepped out of a 1980s perm salon, these cats are conversation starters wherever they go. Don't let their wild hair fool you though - LaPerms are incredibly sweet, affectionate companions who transition seamlessly from skilled mousers to devoted lap cats.
Originally barn cats from Oregon, LaPerms have retained their working cat intelligence and resourcefulness, making them brilliant problem-solvers who'll figure out how to open cupboards and explore every nook of your Brisbane apartment or Melbourne terrace. They're the kind of cat that greets you at the door after work, follows you around the house, and genuinely wants to be involved in whatever you're doing - whether that's folding laundry or binge-watching Netflix on a rainy Sydney afternoon.
What makes them particularly appealing for Australian families is their minimal shedding and generally robust health. Their curly coat traps most loose hair, meaning less vacuuming and fewer hairballs - a blessing during those humid Gold Coast summers when the last thing you want is cat hair sticking to everything. They're adaptable cats who do well in apartments or houses, making them suitable for our diverse living situations across the country.
History
The LaPerm's story reads like something out of a fairy tale, beginning in 1982 on a cherry orchard in The Dalles, Oregon. Linda and Richard Koehl owned a barn cat named Speedy who gave birth to six kittens - five normal, fluffy tabby kittens and one completely bald little oddball. Most people might have been concerned, but the Koehls decided to keep the hairless kitten and see what happened.
Eight weeks later, their patience was rewarded when the little one began growing the most extraordinary soft, curly coat. They named her Curly, and she proved to be not only beautiful but also an exceptional mouser with an incredibly sweet, docile personality. When Curly matured and had her own litter, all five kittens were born bald but developed the same gorgeous curly coats within months.
For the next decade, the Koehls didn't control Curly's breeding, allowing her to mate with various local toms. The curly-coated offspring multiplied rapidly throughout their barn cat population. It wasn't until 1992 that Linda entered six of her curly cats in a Cat Fanciers' Association show in Portland, where she had to register them under a breed name - choosing "LaPerm" because their coats looked like permanent waves.
This sparked Linda's interest in establishing a proper breeding program. Through careful genetic analysis, they discovered their cats carried a unique dominant rex gene, different from other curly-coated breeds like the Cornish Rex. The International Cat Association recognised the LaPerm in 1995, followed by other major cat associations worldwide.
Traits & Characteristics
LaPerm characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
LaPerms are generally robust cats with no breed-specific health predispositions, thanks to their diverse genetic foundation as working barn cats. However, like all cats, they can develop common feline health issues including diabetes, hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, and dental problems. Regular veterinary check-ups every six months are essential, particularly as they age past seven years.
Australian Seasonal Care Considerations:
During those scorching 40°C summer days across Adelaide and Perth, ensure your LaPerm has multiple water sources and cool retreats. Their curly coat actually provides good insulation, but they still need air-conditioned spaces during extreme heat. Watch for excessive panting or lethargy - signs they're overheating. Cooling mats work brilliantly for LaPerms, and many love lying on bathroom tiles during hot spells.
Winter care varies dramatically across Australia. Melbourne and Canberra LaPerm owners should provide warm bedding and consider pet-safe heating pads for those frosty mornings when temperatures drop to 2°C. In tropical Darwin or Cairns, focus on humidity management with good ventilation and dehumidifiers if necessary, as their curly coat can trap moisture.
For eastern seaboard residents, tick prevention is crucial during warmer months. Their curly coat can hide ticks effectively, so daily checks are essential, particularly around the ears, neck, and between toes. Rural Australian owners should also be aware of snake season and keep LaPerms indoors during high-risk periods.
Dental care deserves special attention - brush their teeth weekly if possible, as dental disease can lead to serious health complications. Many Australian veterinary practices offer dental health programs that can help maintain your LaPerm's oral hygiene throughout their 12-15 year lifespan.
While generally healthy, some LaPerm lines may be predisposed to Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKD), an inherited enzyme deficiency that can lead to anaemia. Reputable breeders in Australia screen for this condition. Always ask to see the health clearances for a kitten's parents to ensure they are free from known genetic issues.
LaPerms require a high-quality diet rich in protein, moderate in fat, and low in carbohydrates - essential for maintaining their active lifestyle and healthy curly coat. As descendants of working cats, they have hearty appetites and efficient metabolisms, but portion control remains important to prevent obesity, particularly for indoor cats in Australian apartments.
Choose premium cat food formulated for their life stage - kitten, adult, or senior. Many Australian pet food brands offer excellent options, with prices ranging from $15-40 per week depending on your choice of wet, dry, or combination feeding. Most adult LaPerms thrive on two meals daily, though some prefer grazing if they self-regulate well.
Fresh water availability is crucial, especially during Australian summers. Consider multiple water stations around your home, and many LaPerms enjoy drinking fountains, which encourage hydration. During Brisbane's humid summers or Perth's dry heat, monitor their water intake closely.
Given their high energy levels, LaPerms may need slightly more calories than sedentary breeds. A healthy 4kg adult typically requires around 250-300 calories daily, but this varies based on age, activity level, and metabolism. Working cats or those with outdoor access may need additional calories.
Treats should comprise no more than 10% of daily calories. Australian-made freeze-dried meat treats or small portions of cooked chicken work well for training rewards. Avoid foods toxic to cats including onions, garlic, chocolate, and grapes. If transitioning foods, do so gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.
For multi-cat households common in Australian homes, separate feeding stations prevent competition and ensure each cat receives appropriate nutrition. Consider puzzle feeders to engage their intelligent, curious nature while slowing down fast eaters.
Here's the delightful surprise about LaPerms - despite their wild, curly appearance, they're remarkably low-maintenance! Their unique coat structure means the curly hair tends to stay put rather than floating around your Bondi apartment or Toorak townhouse. You'll find yourself reaching for the lint roller far less often than with most breeds.
Weekly brushing with a slicker brush or wide-toothed comb is usually sufficient, though long-haired LaPerms may benefit from twice-weekly sessions during seasonal coat changes. The key is gentle handling - aggressive brushing can damage their delicate curls and create mats. If you do encounter a tangle, work it out carefully with your fingers or a mat splitter rather than pulling.
Many LaPerm owners discover their cat's curls look best when slightly damp. A light misting with water and gentle scrunching can enhance their natural curl pattern - particularly useful before those weekend barbecues when you want your feline looking their best! Some Melbourne and Sydney owners swear by leave-in conditioners designed for curly-coated cats.
Bathing is rarely necessary unless your LaPerm gets into something messy or you're preparing for a cat show. When you do bathe them, use lukewarm water and cat-specific shampoo, followed by gentle towel drying and air drying to preserve their curls.
Coat Specifications:
- Coat Length: Available in both short and long varieties, with long-haired having distinctive neck ruffs and plumed tails
- Coat Colours: All colours possible in cats including solid, bi-colour, tabby, calico, tortoiseshell, and pointed varieties
- Coat Patterns: Every genetically possible pattern from solid colours to complex calicos and tabbies
- Hypoallergenic: Not truly hypoallergenic, but minimal shedding may suit people with mild cat allergies
LaPerms are brilliant cats who thrive on mental stimulation - a trait that serves them well in Australian homes where they might spend hot summer days indoors. Their working cat heritage means they're natural problem-solvers who'll quickly figure out puzzle feeders, interactive toys, and even some dog-style tricks.
Start with basic training using positive reinforcement. Most LaPerms readily learn their names, come when called, and can master simple commands like "sit" or "high-five." Their food motivation makes treat-based training particularly effective. Many Australian LaPerm owners successfully teach them to walk on harnesses - perfect for exploring secure courtyards or cat-proofed balconies.
Interactive play is non-negotiable with this breed. Dedicate at least 30 minutes daily to active play sessions using wand toys, laser pointers (always end with a physical catch), or motorised toys. They particularly love chase games, so feather wands and ribbon dancers are excellent investments. Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty and interest.
Mental enrichment prevents the destructive behaviour that can emerge when intelligent cats become bored. Hide treats around your home, use puzzle feeders for meals, and consider food-dispensing toys. Many Brisbane and Perth owners create "treasure hunts" by hiding small treats in different locations daily.
Socialisation should begin early and continue throughout their lives. LaPerms generally welcome visitors, but exposure to different people, sounds, and experiences helps maintain their confident, outgoing nature. This is particularly important for apartment-dwelling cats who might otherwise become overwhelmed by unexpected visitors or maintenance workers.
Scratching posts are essential - provide both vertical and horizontal options in different textures. Their active nature means they'll use scratching posts frequently, so invest in sturdy, tall posts that won't topple during enthusiastic climbing sessions.
Who is an ideal owner?
LaPerms are perfect for active Australian families who want a cat that's genuinely involved in daily life rather than just occupying space. They suit households where someone's home most of the day - whether that's work-from-home professionals managing Zoom calls from their Melbourne study, shift workers enjoying days off, or retirees who appreciate constant feline companionship.
These cats thrive with owners who enjoy interactive play and don't mind a curious companion "helping" with household tasks. If you're the type who appreciates a cat that greets guests, follows you from room to room, and genuinely seems interested in your Netflix choices, a LaPerm could be your perfect match.
They're excellent for families with school-aged children, particularly those who'll engage in play sessions after school. However, they're equally content with single professionals who can dedicate quality time to interaction and play. Their adaptable nature suits both apartment living in inner-city Sydney and house living in suburban Perth, provided their exercise and attention needs are met.
LaPerm owners should be prepared for a cat with opinions and the intelligence to express them creatively. They're not destructive by nature, but boredom can lead to creative problem-solving that might involve opened cupboards or rearranged belongings. Patient, consistent owners who can redirect their energy positively will find them delightful companions.
Consider your long-term commitment carefully - LaPerms bond strongly with their families and don't adapt well to rehoming. They're ideal for settled households planning to stay together for 12-15 years, whether that's young couples buying their first home or established families looking for a long-term feline family member.
Interesting facts about the LaPerm
Interesting Fact
LaPerm kittens are often born completely bald, developing their signature curls over their first few months of life
Interesting Fact
The breed name "LaPerm" was chosen because their coats resemble 1980s permanent wave hairstyles
Interesting Fact
Their curly whiskers often match their coat texture, creating an entirely coordinated "curly" appearance
Interesting Fact
LaPerms can lose and regrow their coats multiple times during kittenhood before settling into their adult curl pattern
FAQ
A purebred LaPerm from a reputable breeder typically costs $1,500-3,000 AUD in Australia, though prices can vary significantly based on the breeder's location and the cat's pedigree. Due to their rarity, you're unlikely to find LaPerms in shelters or rescues, but adoption fees would range from $200-500 AUD if you're fortunate enough to locate one.
While LaPerms shed significantly less than most breeds due to their curly coat structure, they're not truly hypoallergenic. However, many people with mild cat allergies find them more tolerable than other breeds because less dander becomes airborne.
Absolutely! LaPerms are exceptionally sociable and friendly cats who love interacting with their humans. They're curious, outgoing, and genuinely enjoy meeting new people, making them excellent family pets who participate actively in household life.
LaPerms adapt well to apartment living provided they receive adequate mental stimulation and daily play sessions. Their minimal shedding is perfect for smaller spaces, though they'll need cat trees and interactive toys to satisfy their active nature. Ensure your lease allows pets and check any body corporate restrictions first.
Weekly brushing is usually sufficient, with long-haired varieties potentially needing twice-weekly sessions during seasonal changes. Their low-maintenance coats are surprisingly easy to manage despite their wild appearance - gentle brushing prevents mats without damaging their natural curls.
LaPerms are excellent family cats who are typically patient and gentle with children. Their playful nature matches well with school-aged kids, and they're sturdy enough to handle typical family chaos. Always supervise interactions with very young children and teach proper cat handling.
LaPerms are quite rare in Australia, with limited breeders across the country. Expect to join waiting lists and potentially travel interstate to find a reputable breeder. Check with major cat associations like the Australian Cat Federation for breeder directories and attend cat shows where you might meet LaPerm breeders.
LaPerms adapt reasonably well to Australia's diverse climates. Their curly coat provides good insulation, though they'll need cool spaces during extreme heat and warm bedding during cold snaps. They're generally hardy cats, but monitor them closely during temperature extremes and ensure adequate climate control indoors.