American Curl
American Curls are sometimes referred to as Peter Pan in the cat world. This is reflected in their childlike nature, both in childhood and adulthood. Males and females are equally active and full of energy. Therefore, they will establish a thread of understanding with young children, but also with well-balanced, but loving and smiling adults. Let’s get to know another representative of cats with unusual ears a little closer.
FIFe classification
- Category II: Semi-longhair cats
- EMS codes: ACL – longhair, ACS – shorthair
- Country of origin: United States
History of the breed
The breed originated in California as a result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. In June 1981, homeless kittens were found and taken in by the Ruga family. The litter included 2 long-haired kittens with crescent-like ears: one was black and the other was black and white. The family named them Shulamit (a Hebrew word for “black but beautiful”) and Panda, but a few weeks later the black and white Panda disappeared. The Shulamit cat became the founder of a new breed – American Curl.
In 1986, the breed was presented for the first time at a cat show, and in 1992, the long-haired American Curl won the TICA championship. In 1999, the breed was registered with the CFA. Soon after, it won the CFA championship.
Characteristic
Appearance
At birth, American Curls have normal, protruding ears. Only after about 7 days do they begin to curve. However, they take their final form after 4-4.5 months. The angle of the ear lobes is in the range of 90-180o. In listening cats, the ears point forward. The tips of the ears are rounded and soft, often covered with a tuft of hair. In exhibition cats, ears should not touch the back of the head.
In addition to the ears, the American Curl is characterized by a silky smooth coat that can be long or short. Any robe color and pattern is acceptable, including tortoiseshell, chocolate, lily, or silver. In the long-haired variety, a fluffy tail is emphasized.
Temperament
Despite its warm character, this breed of cat is not tiring. It is very fond of human company and touch, but is also patient in this matter. It also shows affection by sniffing the caregiver’s face. In addition, it loves fun and various forms of activity. Therefore, it will feel great in a home with children. However, it is not as energetic as, for example, an Abyssinian cat. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied vigor and enthusiasm.
Like other cats, it also shows curiosity towards the environment. All new phenomena must be known empirically (through experience).
Because it is intelligent, it can learn quickly. It opens doors and cabinets on its own, so be careful what you put in them. When it wants to rest, it lies down on the caregiver’s lap. This breed quickly adapts to a variety of home environments. It is therefore suitable for almost every family and home where it gets love and attention.
Health condition
Since the breed has a rich gene pool, it is not burdened with diseases. It is important to clean your ears regularly and gently to prevent infections and injuries.
The gene responsible for the eversion of the ears is dominant, but it is not related to the sex of the cat. Nevertheless, there are concerns about it. Some believe that it may also be associated with possible joint diseases, as is the case with Scottish folds. However, on the basis of 2-year follow-up, no signs of similar abnormalities were noted in the American Curls.
Detailed data / dimensions (size)
American Curl cat
- Height at the withers: 30 cm (11.8 in)
- Weight: 2-4 kg (4.4 – 8.8 lb)
- Lifespan: over 15 years
American Curl – interesting facts
- The American Curl is one of the youngest cat breeds, created in the 1980s. The oldest cat breeds are several hundred or even several thousand years old.
- The American Curl is recognized as one of the healthiest breeds of domestic cats.
- The auricle of the American Curl is sometimes compared to the auricle of a human, because in the American Curl it is much harder and more durable than in other purebred cats.
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