Among the dozens of well-known breeds, the American Curl is easy to recognize at a glance. Its main feature is its ears, the tips of which curl gracefully backward, giving the impression that the cat is constantly interested in something or surprised by something. It is this unusual feature that has made the breed one of the most original in the world.
Interestingly, the American Curl appeared quite by accident. In 1981, in the American state of California, the couple Joe and Grace Ruga took in a stray black cat with strangely curved ears, whom they named Shulamith. It was she who became the ancestor of the entire modern breed.
What does the American Curl look like?
The most important feature of the breed is the characteristic shape of its ears. They curve backward at an angle of about 90 to 180 degrees. At the same time, kittens are born with ordinary straight ears, and the characteristic curve begins to form only a few days after birth. The final shape is established by about four months of age.
American Curls have a well-built, well-proportioned, medium-sized body. Their eyes are large and expressive, and their coat can be either short or semi-long. The breed standard allows for almost all colors and patterns, so each representative looks unique.
Character: eternal kitten
American Curls are often called “cats that never grow up.” They retain playfulness and curiosity about the world around them even in old age.
This breed is known for its friendliness and strong bond with humans. Curls like to be close to their owners, but they are rarely annoying. They are happy to participate in household chores, watch what is happening, and can literally follow the owner around the apartment.
American Curls also get along well with children and other pets, which is why they are often recommended for large families.
Is this breed difficult to care for?
Despite its unusual appearance, the American Curl is not a breed that is too difficult to care for. Short-haired cats usually need to be brushed once a week, and semi-long-haired cats a little more often to remove dead hair and prevent tangles.
Owners should pay the most attention to the ears. Due to the characteristic curve, dust, sebum, and other contaminants can accumulate in them, so regular inspection and gentle cleaning are an important part of care. The cartilage in the curved part is quite sensitive, so the ears should not be bent or straightened too much.
During professional grooming American Curls are usually given comprehensive hygienic care: combing the coat, cleaning the ears, trimming the nails, and caring for the eye area. Such procedures help not only to maintain the pet’s neat appearance but also to notice possible changes in the condition of the skin, coat, or ears in time.
An interesting fact
The gene responsible for the American Curl’s unusual ear shape is dominant. This means that even if only one parent has this feature, kittens can also inherit the characteristic curve. At the same time, this genetic mutation, unlike some other breeds, is not associated with serious health problems.
