Cat · Medium Breed
LaPerm
The LaPerm is a medium-sized cat known for its soft, curly coat, affectionate nature, and playful intelligence. This breed is people-oriented and usually enjoys being involved in daily household life while still maintaining a gentle, adaptable temperament.
The Calculator
How old is your LaPerm in human years?
At 1 year old
Your LaPerm is approximately 15 in human years.
Field Notes
About the LaPerm
The LaPerm originated in the United States in the early 1980s, when a naturally occurring genetic mutation produced kittens with unusual curly coats on an Oregon farm. Breeders preserved and developed the trait, and the breed became known for its distinctive waves, ringlets, and whiskers that may also appear curled.
LaPerms are typically affectionate, curious, and social cats that form strong bonds with their families. Many enjoy lap time, follow their people from room to room, and get along well with respectful children, other cats, and cat-friendly dogs.
Their coat can be short or long and is generally low-maintenance compared with heavier-coated breeds, but regular brushing still helps reduce tangles, loose hair, and hairballs. Routine veterinary care, dental hygiene, portion control, and a high-quality diet are important because LaPerms are generally healthy but can still develop common feline medical problems.
LaPerms are active without being overly demanding and benefit from daily interactive play, climbing spaces, and puzzle toys. Short play sessions, cat trees, and opportunities to jump and explore usually provide enough exercise to keep them mentally stimulated and physically fit.
Temperament
Exercise Needs
moderate
Health Watch
- Dental disease
- Obesity
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- Chronic kidney disease
- Hairballs
Grooming
LaPerms need gentle weekly brushing, with slightly more frequent grooming for long-coated cats to keep curls clean, soft, and free of mats.
Growth Curve
LaPerm weight chart
Typical weight progression from young to adult. The tinted band marks the healthy adult range — 3–5 kg.
Nutrition, Staged
LaPerm Feeding Guide
Stage-based portions tuned to breed energy requirements. Use as a starting point — your veterinarian tailors the final numbers.
Formative years
Young
Follow breed-specific puppy feeding guidelines
Peak years
Adult
Follow breed-specific adult feeding guidelines
Mature years
Senior
Follow breed-specific senior feeding guidelines
Questions, Answered
On the LaPerm
No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic, and LaPerms still produce the Fel d 1 protein that triggers most cat allergies. Some people feel they tolerate this breed better because the coat is light and may shed less than expected, but allergy reactions can still occur.
LaPerms usually shed lightly to moderately, though the amount can vary with coat length and season. Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the curls looking their best without much effort.
Yes, LaPerms are generally affectionate, adaptable, and people-focused, which makes them a strong choice for many families. They usually do best in homes where they get regular interaction, gentle handling, and playtime.
LaPerms need daily activity, but they are not usually as intense as some highly athletic breeds. Interactive toys, climbing furniture, and two or three short play sessions each day are often enough to keep them healthy and engaged.
A LaPerm commonly lives around 10 to 15 years, and some may live longer with excellent care and regular veterinary checkups. Good nutrition, weight management, dental care, and an indoor-safe lifestyle can all support longevity.
Adjacent Breeds
