American Curl Kittens

American Curl kittens are known for their adorable curled ears. Learn more about this quirky and mischevious breed.

History

The first American Curl kitten appeared in the 1980’s in the United States. A curly eared litter resulted from the mating of two domestic cats. It was later determined that the curly ears came from a spontaneous natural genetic mutation. The American Curl was gained Championship status in the CFA in 1993.

Physical Appearance

American Curl cats are known for their curled ears. The curled ears are natural mutations that occur in the breed. Curled ears are the result of a dominant gene. It only takes one cat with the American Curl curly-eared gene to mate with a non-curly eared cat to create a typical curly eared American Curl kitten.

American Curl cats have average sized builds. They have silky luxurious coats. American Curl coats can be either long or short. American Curl cats have rounded medium sized paws. Adult male Curls can grow to be up to 10 pounds. American Curl cats have wedge shaped heads and plumed tails.

Colors

American Curl cats come in all colors and patterns. Eyes also come in a wide variety of colors. American Curls have been known to be pointed, part-color, bi-color, tabby, smoke, solid, and shaded in coloration. Whatever color you prefer, there is an American Curl cat that fits the description.

Temperament

If you love cats that are dog-like and loyal, then American Curl cats maybe for you. This breed is smart and loves human companionship. American Curls also love to “help” there owners when they are reading or cooking in the kitchen. Curls love to be where their owners are. American Curls are playful throughout their lives. They are quite adept at games of fetch and enjoy playing in water.

American Curl cats are inquisitive and intuitive. While not overly talkative, Curls are expressive animals that can sense when their owners are upset and need emotional support.

Development

American Curl kittens are born with straight ears. The ears gradually begin to curl tightly early in a kitten’s life around 3-5 days after birth. The ears initially curl up quite tightly. Then, gradually, the ears loosen to a softer curl by 4 months of age. This will be the permanent position of the ears into adulthood.

Care

Caring for the American Curl is relatively easy. The breed has very little undercoat of fur which makes combing and brushing a breeze. Also, the fur does not become matted or tangled very easily. American Curl very also does not shed very often. Simply brush the fur once or twice a week. A bath may be necessary if the fur is particularly dirty and coated.

During grooming, it is important to be careful with the Curl’s ears, as the ears are somewhat sensitive. Do not try to unroll the curled ear lobe. Just use a moist cotton ball to clean any residual ear wax or dirty around the ear canal.

Health

The American Curl is an overall healthy breed. Due to diversity in the breed, there are very few known hereditary conditions associated with American Curls.

Remember…American Curl kittens are loving and personably cats.

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