The American Curl is a cuddly cat, but has ear problems

With its curly ears, the American Curl looks sweet. But the ears are also a problem with this cat breed – they are very fragile. Fortunately, there is also a lot of nice things to tell. Want to know more? Then read on soon!

In this blog:

• The origins of the American Curl
• What is the character of the American Curl like?
• The appearance and coat of an American Curl
• How do you care for an American Curl?
• Diseases and disorders of the American Curl
• How old does the American Curl get?
• Buying an American Curl (kitten)

The origins of the American Curl

American Curls are rare. Not much breeding is done with this breed and it also exists

not so long – in fact, it is the newest cat breed in existence. The American Curl has only been around since the early 1980s. The first of these cats was a stray cat and was discovered by an American couple. The cats were unusual not only for their ears curled backwards, but also for their particularly affectionate and friendly nature. The couple decided to adopt the cat and a few months later a litter was born – the first litter of kittens with ears curled backwards. More kittens were born until eventually someone decided to breed two kittens with these distinctive ears.

This breed is still very rare in Europe. But in America, the American Curl has been recognised and fairly popular since the 1990s.

The character of the American Curl

American Curl cats are fun and lots of people love them. They are active and playful – they actually like everything, including fetching and climbing. So a stable cat tree is recommended. And they love spending time with ‘their’ family. Furthermore, American Curls are very curious. Is their owner busy with a chore in the house? Then he is guaranteed to get a visit from this cat, as they love to help and explore new things. They also adapt super easily. To new people, other animals and even a whole new home or environment. They keep these fun traits throughout their lives – they will always behave like a happy, curious and playful cat.

Fun fact: American Curls love to help their owners with housework!

The appearance and coat of the American Curl

The American Curl gets its name not from a curly coat or tail, but from the ears curled backwards. This cat breed does not have these at birth – the kittens only get curled ears after about one to two weeks. The ears unfurl until the cats are four months old and do not change after that. In terms of build, American Curls are a bit square and medium-sized – they weigh between three and five kilos. And male cats are, of course, always a bit bigger and heavier.

The head of this cat breed is longer than it is wide, so it does not have a short snout. The front legs are somewhat shorter than the hind legs, which are strong and straight. Their tail is as long as their body, starting wide at the base and tapering into a rounded tip. And an American Curl’s coat can have all colours and patterns. It is short or semi-long. Their eyes are walnut-shaped and they too may come in all colours.

The care of the American Curl

Taking care of an American Curl is quite easy. Their coat looks impressive, but it requires little maintenance – brushing once a week is enough. The American Curl’s ears are sensitive, so you need to be careful with those. This breed can also suffer from deformed or narrowed ear canals. So checking the ears regularly (or having them cleaned by the vet) is wise.

Further care of the American Curl

Every cat – breed or no breed – deserves to be well and lovingly cared for. And you do that with:

• a safe house
• lots of love and attention
• good food and always fresh water
• fresh litter boxes with good litter
• toys and a warm basket
• a scratching post for an American Curl
• protection against fleas, ticks and worms
• vaccinations and regular visits to the vet

Diseases and disorders in the American Curl

This cat breed is not widely bred and it is often crossed with ordinary domestic cats. Therefore, the American Curl is reasonably healthy. These breed cats have few hereditary diseases. But keep in mind that the ears are a sensitive area. Its cartilage is very fragile and the ear canals can be narrowed or malformed. And that can cause all sorts of problems. When in doubt, always ask your vet for advice.

How old does an American Curl get?

Because an American Curl has a lot in common with ‘regular cats’, you can assume they will live to be between 12 and 16 years old. If they are well cared for, of course.

Buying an American Curl (kitten)

An American Curl is a super cute cat that can have some health issues. Something to think about before you start. Would you still like such a pedigree cat? Then check with your vet about the breed first. And then contact a breed association to ask about recognised breeders, because then you can be sure you are buying a healthy animal that can have a good life. Rather not buy a kitten? Then check out a shelter or mediation site. Because there are lots of cats there waiting for a warm basket and a kind owner. And of course, you should never buy a cat from a breeder or from an online marketplace.

Disclaimer: Petrebels is not a vet or behaviourist: all content, information and tips on this blog are intended to inspire you and are informative in nature. Does your cat have complaints or problems and are you in doubt about your cat’s health? If so, always visit your vet or a behaviourist.