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American Curl
Origin
United States
Height
8"-10"
Adult Weight
5-10 pounds
Life Span
11-15 years
TEMPERAMENT
Curious, intelligent, social, playful
OTHER NAMES
"Peter Pan" of the cat world
Group
Small-sized short to medium hair
Price
$1,000 - $2,000
Personality and Temperament
The American curl cat gets its name from its ears, which curl backward, creating a unique shell-like shape. Just in case you’re wondering whether this breed shares any genetics with the Scottish fold, the answer is no. Both breeds are distinct, with different characteristics.
Far more sociable than the average cat, these friendly felines like to greet their families at the door and follow them around the house. They like children and they have a tendency to get along well with other pets.
American curl cats come in every color and pattern imaginable, in both long and shorthair varieties. They have very little undercoat, and their topcoats tend to feel very soft and silky.
In addition to their signature ear shape, the American curl cat is known for having a long, luxurious tail.
As you might imagine, American curl cats with very curly ears are often reserved as show cats. Breeders tend to offer cats that have a less pronounced curve to their ear structure as pets.
Care
These cats do not have any special nutritional needs. We recommend feeding your American curl cat a high-quality, meat-based diet. Even though these kitties are extraordinarily sweet and friendly, they are still obligate carnivores!
Just like all other cats, the American curl does a pretty good job of grooming itself. Treat them to a light brushing a few times per week, regular nail trims, and ear cleaning when necessary.
American curl cats are playful and appreciate interactive games with their families. These cats like to play fetch and will quickly learn how to carry small balls, toys, and pieces of crumpled up paper.
As you might imagine, these American curl cats have some special needs when it comes to caring for their ears. The lower portion of the ear cartilage is very stiff and stable, but the upper portion of the ear is thin and fragile. You’ll need to use a light touch when clearing away any wax. A gentle ear cleaning solution can help.
Characteristics
Affection Level
100%
Activity Level
60%
Pet-Friendly
90%
Kid-Friendly
80%
Sociability
100%
Intelligence
70%
Playfulness
60%
Independence
50%
Vocality
40%
Grooming
50%
History
The Breed Standard
Body
The American curl has a lean, elegant body with moderate muscle mass and a fairly slender build. Females should weigh between five and 8 pounds, and males should weigh between seven and 10 pounds.
Head
The head is a modified wedge shape with no flat plains. It is longer than it is wide. The nose should be moderate in length with a straight, slight rise that extends from the bottom of the eyes to the four head followed by a gentle curve toward the top of the head.
Eyes
The American curl cat has walnut shaped eyes that are oval on top and rounder at the bottom. The eyes should be set at a slight angle between the tip of the nose and the base of the ears, one eye width apart.
Ears
The American curl is named for its ears, which have a distinctly curled profile. There should be a minimum of 90 degrees arc of curl and a maximum of 180 degrees arc of curl. The American curl's ears should be wider at the base, with an open shape and rounded, flexible tips. They should be moderately large, and they should be placed equally on the side and top of the head. Ear furnishings are desirable.
Legs & Paws
The legs should be of medium length, with medium boning. The feet should have a rounded shape and should be of medium size.
Tail
The American curl's tail should be the same length as its body. It should be wide at the base with a tapering shape.
Coat
American curl cats may have long or short coats.
Color
All colors and patterns are acceptable in both the long and short hair coat divisions. Nose leather and paw pad colors correspond to coat colors.