Origin and History
· In 1981, the backward curled ear was observed in a longhaired black female stray cat in California. She is believed to be the progenitor of all American curls.
· The two kittens born to the stray female both had the curled ear but one of them was shorthaired and the other one longhaired.
· This ear shape is believed to be caused by a spontaneous genetic mutation.
· A supervised breeding program was started in 1983.
· The breed was accepted and recognized by the International Cat Association in 1985 and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA) in 1986.
Appearance
· The American Curl is a medium-sized cat with a rectangular, well-muscled body.
· The legs are medium length with round paws.
· The length of the tail is almost equal to the body length and has a thick plume.
· The average weight of the male is 4.5-5.5 kilograms and the female is 3.2-4.5 kilograms.
· The head is modified wedge-shaped.
· The American curl’s ears gives the breed its unique and distinguishing characteristic. The ears curl back in a graceful arc. The ears are wide at the base and open. In the longhaired cats, the ears have long tufts.
· The eyes are large, walnut shaped and can be any colour.
· The coat is silky and flat-lying with minimal undercoat.
· All coat colours and patterns are accepted.
· The coat may be short or long.
Character and Personality
· American Curls are affectionate with a calm, even temperament.
· They are generally quiet and talk with a gentle cooing voice.
· They are sociable and people-oriented, the American Curl needs to feel included in the activities of the household.
· These cats are very intelligent and playful.
· They can adapt well to living with children or other pets.
· They can adjust fast to new situations.
Needs
· Moderate grooming needs with regular brushing and ear checks.
· Suited to living indoors.
· Happiest when living with an owner who has time to give them attention.
Trivia
· This breed is lovingly known as the “Peter Pan of felines” because they retain their kitten-like personality even into adulthood.