Featured Breed

Oddly enough, the first American Curl appeared in California as a stray cat during 1981.

Her name was Shulamith and subsequently gave birth to more American Curls, making her the distinct ancestor of all American Curls in the world. The Curls also come in two versions, longhair and shorthair. Both kinds of American Curl cats were admitted to the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) Championship Class in 1999, making them the first breed to have multiple versions in the CFA.

Let’s discuss the part everybody is curious about…their ears. Although most images of American Curls portray them with curled back ears, they’re actually born with straight ears. The curling process begins 48 hours after birth, and after four months, the curling will stop. The kitty ears should be stiff to the touch with flexible tips. In normal situations, the earls will curl anywhere from 90 to 180 degrees; however, closer to 90 is more common. Despite the American Curls being bred in the U.S., they’re found across the world, mainly in Spain, France, Russia, and Japan.

A fluffy kitten

The American Curl cats come in all shapes and sizes, but one characteristic remains, their adorable curled back ears.

Other than their ears, the American Curls are widely beloved for their charming personality. Their connection to humans is seen in almost every kitty and something that owners truly love. Like other cat breeds such as the Siamese or Burmese, the American Curl can be taught how to fetch and liken qualities of other cats that act like dogs.

The polite and friendly nature of the Curl is extremely noticeable in their first 2-3 years because they aren’t fully mature until they turn three-years old. However, their playfulness extends into their old age during their seniority. But like any kitty cat, American Curls can be found perched upon the highest object in the room, whether it’s a lamp or a couch. They always seem to find their way into the most difficult places, but we love them even more for being the little acrobats that they are.

As a breed, the American Curl is generally healthy compared to other cats, such as the Maine Coon.

The only known genetic issue has to do with, as you might suspect, their ears. Due to their curling ears, they suffer from narrow ear canals, which can buildup wax in the ear causing infections. Their large genetic gene pool prevents this breed from other major health issues.

At a glance

Covering your American Curl

These curly kitties live approximately 12 to 16 years.

Pet insurance for American Curl cats is generally comparable in price to pet insurance for other cat breeds, such as Domestic Longhairs.

Though American Curls are generally healthy cats, their ear infections may develop on and off throughout their entire life. Regular check-ups and ear infection medication could be a regular occurence. Pet insurance plans like those offered through Prudent Pet, can cover exams and medication relieving some of the financial burden. Since this breed could develop ongoing ear infections, it’s important to get pet insurance for American Curl cats before they become fully mature at three-years old.

Rescue a kitty

Looking to rescue a American Curl cat? Here are some of the top American Curl rescues in the country: