Discovering The Delightful World Of Curly Hair Cat Breeds

Elva Heaney 27 Jul 2025

Have you ever stopped to think about how many different kinds of cats there are out there? Most people, so, typically picture sleek Siamese or fluffy Persian cats, with their straight or just wavy coats. But, did you know that some felines actually sport a charming head full of curls? It's really quite something to behold, these cats, with their truly unique and adorable coats, are a sight to see, a true standout in the animal kingdom, and they immediately grab your attention because the vast majority of cats have straight fur.

A cat with curly hair really does stand out from the crowd, since most cats have straight or wavy hair, you know. Of all the breeds of cats, just a handful actually have curly hair, making them both quite rare and rather desirable pets. These curly haired cats are so rare, in fact, that you might not have actually seen one in person, which is pretty amazing when you consider it. Despite their rarity, there are a number of breeds that exclusively have curly fur, and these cats are interesting, spread all over the world, too.

Thinking about adding a new member to your pet family and considering cats with curly hair? Well, you're in for a treat, because these cats aren't your average fluffballs, not at all. They have unique looks, and their personalities are truly special, and they also have particular health needs, which is good to know. What's more, they may even be less prone to shedding and allergies, which could be a big plus for some people. Below, you’ll find out more about these unique creatures’ coats, their personalities, their typical size, and a bit about their history. Perfect for those seeking rare and affectionate pets, you’ll discover four breeds you'll adore, and you'll want to learn more about them, really.

Unveiling the Unique Charm of Curly Haired Cats
The Laperm: A Cat with Permed Perfection
The Devon Rex: Pixie-Like and Playful
The Selkirk Rex: The Poodle Cat
The Cornish Rex: A Wavy Wonder
Why Are Curly Haired Cats So Special?
The Wonderful Personalities of Curly Coated Cats
Caring for a Curly Coated Companion
Health Considerations for Curly Hair Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions About Curly Hair Cat Breeds
Considering a Curly Companion

Unveiling the Unique Charm of Curly Haired Cats

Wait, you might be asking yourself, there are cats with curly fur? Yes, there really are! It’s a rather delightful surprise for many cat enthusiasts. These felines, with their truly unique and just adorable coats, are a sight to behold, a bit like a living, breathing work of art, you know. Curly haired cats immediately turn heads because the vast majority of cats have straight fur, so they really do stand out. It’s a pretty rare thing to see, actually, and it makes them quite special.

Of all the cat breeds, just a handful possess this distinctive curly hair, making them both rare and incredibly desirable. As one expert, Keiger, observed, "I think people are taken with the unique curly coats of these breeds," and that's very true. This list of cat breeds with curly hair provides a solid foundation for understanding each breed by its distinct characteristics, which is quite helpful. You'll learn about their specific traits, and what makes each one so charming, so.

These cats are interesting, and they are spread all over the world, too, showing up in various places. Here are four cat breeds with curly coats that are recognized by the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), which are very respected organizations in the cat world. Want to learn more about them? Well, you're in the right spot to find out interesting facts about these adorable curly haired cat breeds! It’s really quite fascinating to see how diverse cat coats can be.

The Laperm: A Cat with Permed Perfection

The Laperm is, in a way, a truly striking cat known for its unique, often bouncy, and just wonderfully curly coat. This breed's curls can range from tight ringlets to soft waves, giving each cat a rather distinct look, you know. Their fur feels incredibly soft to the touch, which is a very nice quality. The Laperm’s coat is caused by a dominant gene, which is different from some other curly-haired breeds, making their appearance quite consistent. It’s pretty amazing how genetics work to create such beautiful variations in cats, so.

When it comes to personality, Laperms are typically described as very affectionate and quite playful, too. They are known for being very social and enjoy spending time with their human companions, often seeking out attention and cuddles. This makes them a really good choice for families or individuals who want a cat that will truly interact with them. They're not just beautiful to look at; they also have hearts full of warmth, which is very sweet. They are, in some respects, quite the loving companions.

Their size is generally medium, making them a comfortable lap cat without being too small or too large. The history of the Laperm is rather interesting, actually, as it began quite spontaneously in a barn in Oregon in the early 1980s. A barn cat gave birth to a litter, and one kitten, named Curly, had this unusual, sparse, and curly coat. This little cat was the foundation of the entire breed, which is pretty incredible to think about. This accidental discovery brought about one of the most beloved curly-coated breeds, you know.

For care, the Laperm's curly coat does need some attention to keep it looking its best and to prevent matting. Regular, gentle brushing is important to maintain the texture and beauty of their natural curls. This also helps to distribute natural oils, keeping their coat healthy and shiny. Despite their unique fur, they are generally healthy cats, and their unique look makes them a favorite among cat enthusiasts, and frankly, anyone who sees them. They are truly, in a way, a very special kind of cat.

The Devon Rex: Pixie-Like and Playful

The Devon Rex, with its rather distinctive appearance, is often described as having a pixie-like look, you know, due to its large ears, slender body, and very unique wavy coat. Unlike other rexed cats, their curly coat is caused by a recessive gene, which means both parents need to carry the gene for the kittens to inherit the curls. Their fur is quite short and very soft, feeling a bit like suede or velvet to the touch, which is a truly pleasant sensation. It’s a very fine texture, almost like down, so.

Personality-wise, Devon Rex cats are famously playful and very mischievous, too. They are known for their high energy levels and their love for games, often enjoying fetch or chasing toys. These cats are also incredibly social and quite affectionate, often wanting to be right in the middle of whatever their human family is doing. They have a reputation for being "people cats" and will often follow their owners around the house, which is really charming. They are, in some respects, truly engaging companions.

Their short stature and playful demeanor make them an amusing addition to any home, really. They are a smaller to medium-sized breed, with a surprisingly muscular body despite their delicate appearance. The Devon Rex originated in Devon, England, in the late 1950s, when a stray cat gave birth to a litter that included a curly-coated kitten. This kitten, Kirlee, was the very first Devon Rex and started the breed, which is quite a story, actually. Their unique look and engaging personality quickly made them popular, you know.

Caring for a Devon Rex’s coat is relatively easy because their fur is so short. They don't require extensive brushing, but a gentle rub with a damp cloth can help keep their coat clean and reduce shedding. They are often cited as a good choice for people with allergies, as their unique coat structure may produce less of the Fel d 1 protein that triggers allergic reactions, though no cat is truly hypoallergenic. They are, in a way, quite a low-maintenance cat in terms of grooming, which is nice.

The Selkirk Rex: The Poodle Cat

The Selkirk Rex is sometimes lovingly called the "poodle cat" because of its plush, soft, and very distinctively curly coat, you know. This breed's curls are rather loose and somewhat shaggy, giving them a very cuddly appearance. What's quite unique about the Selkirk Rex is that aside from their curly fur, they also have curly eyebrows and whiskers, which become more noticeable as they age, adding to their charming, somewhat disheveled look. It’s really quite endearing, this curly everything, so.

Personality-wise, Selkirk Rex cats are known for being incredibly patient and very tolerant, too. They are often described as gentle giants, being quite calm and laid-back, which makes them excellent family pets. They enjoy affection and human companionship but aren't typically as hyperactive as some other breeds. They are quite adaptable and can fit well into various household environments, which is a great trait. Their calm nature makes them very approachable and just lovely to be around, really.

The Selkirk Rex is a medium to large-sized cat, with a sturdy and somewhat heavy build. The history of this breed began in Montana in 1987, when a rescue cat gave birth to a litter that included a kitten with unusually curly fur. This kitten, Miss DePesto, was bred with a Persian, and the resulting offspring confirmed that the curly gene was dominant, meaning only one parent needs to carry it for the trait to appear. This spontaneous mutation led to the development of this charming breed, which is pretty cool, actually.

Their dense, curly coat does require regular brushing to prevent matting and to maintain its beautiful texture. While they do shed, their unique coat might trap loose hairs, potentially making them less likely to spread allergens around the home for some individuals. They are, in some respects, a bit more involved in terms of grooming than some short-haired cats. Despite this, they are loved for a reason, as their sweet personalities and unique looks make them very popular companions, you know.

The Cornish Rex: A Wavy Wonder

The Cornish Rex is recognized by its incredibly unique, short, and very soft wavy fur, which feels a bit like velvet to the touch, you know. Unlike other cats, the Cornish Rex only has a down coat, lacking the guard hairs and awn hairs that most cats possess. This gives their fur a very distinctive rippled or "marcel wave" appearance, which is quite striking. It's a very fine, delicate coat, so it’s important to handle them gently. Their coat is caused by a recessive gene, similar to the Devon Rex, actually.

When it comes to their personality, Cornish Rex cats are known for being extremely playful, very outgoing, and just incredibly social, too. They are often described as having a "dog-like" personality, enjoying games of fetch and even learning tricks. They are very affectionate and thrive on human interaction, often seeking out attention and wanting to be involved in all household activities. They are quite intelligent and very curious, which makes them engaging companions. They are, in a way, truly lively and fun pets.

Their short stature and playful demeanor make them an amusing addition to any home, really. They are a small to medium-sized cat with a lean, athletic build. The Cornish Rex originated in Cornwall, England, in 1950, when a barn cat gave birth to a curly-coated male kitten named Kallibunker. This kitten was the foundation of the breed, and his unique coat was the result of a spontaneous genetic mutation. The breed quickly gained recognition for its distinct appearance and lively spirit, you know.

Because their coat is so short and fine, Cornish Rex cats don't require much grooming, just an occasional gentle rub with a soft cloth. They are often considered a good choice for people with mild allergies because they shed very little, though again, no cat is truly hypoallergenic. Their unique coat means they can get cold easily, so they appreciate warm places to sleep. They are, in some respects, a rather low-maintenance cat when it comes to grooming, which is a nice bonus.

Why Are Curly Haired Cats So Special?

A cat with curly hair really stands out from the crowd, since most cats have straight or wavy hair, you know. It’s pretty rare, actually, to see a feline with such a distinctive coat. Of all the breeds of cats, just a handful have curly hair, making them both rare and incredibly desirable. This rarity is part of their charm, and it makes them quite sought after by cat lovers who are looking for something truly different. It's not every day you see a cat with a natural perm, so.

These cats have very unique looks, and their personalities are truly special, and they also have particular health needs, which is good to know. They may also be less prone to shedding and allergies, which can be a significant benefit for some families. This list of cat breeds with curly hair provides a solid foundation for understanding each breed by characteristic, helping you to appreciate what makes each one so unique. It’s really quite interesting to see the variations, you know.

“I think people are taken with the unique curly coats of these breeds,” as Keiger said, and that’s very true. Curly haired cats immediately turn heads because the vast majority of cats have straight fur, so they really do catch the eye. Curly haired cats are so rare that you might not have actually seen one in person, which adds to their mystique. Despite their rarity, there are a number of breeds that exclusively have curly fur, and these cats are interesting, spread all over the world, too.

The rex cat breed, in general, has very unique traits and is often recognized by its plush, waved fur, you know. Learn about each type of rex cat and find out if one is the right pet for you, because they truly are distinct. These cats aren’t your average fluffballs, not at all. Unlike other rexed cats, their curly coat is sometimes caused by a recessive gene, as we saw with the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, which is a fascinating genetic detail. And if you think adorable cats like the Selkirk and Laperm aren’t total hits with cat fans, think again—they’re loved for a reason, you know.

The Wonderful Personalities of Curly Coated Cats

Curly cats have great personalities, which is really one of their most appealing traits, actually. It’s not just their unique appearance that makes them special; their temperament is truly something to celebrate. All cat breeds with curly hair have some of the best personalities ever, which is a pretty bold statement, but often true. They are typically friendly, very outgoing, incredibly social, and just plain fun to be around, which is what most people want in a pet, you know.

These felines thrive on human interaction and often form very strong bonds with their families. They aren't just decorative; they actively participate in household life, often following their people from room to room. Their playful nature means they enjoy interactive games and can keep you entertained for hours. It’s a joy to have such an engaging companion, and they truly add a lot of warmth to a home. They are, in some respects, quite the lively members of a family.

Whether it’s the mischievous charm of a Devon Rex or the patient sweetness of a Selkirk Rex, these cats consistently show a loving and adaptable nature. They tend to be quite adaptable to different living situations, which is a big plus for many people. Their social disposition means they often get along well with children and other pets, too, making them a good fit for diverse households. You know, they really do seem to have a knack for making friends, so.

Their outgoing personalities mean they aren't shy about showing affection, often curling up on laps or purring loudly when petted. This makes them incredibly rewarding pets for those who appreciate a cat that truly connects with them. They are, in a way, just wonderful companions, bringing a lot of joy and laughter into their homes. It's pretty clear why they are so loved by their owners, actually.

Caring for a Curly Coated Companion

Taking care of a curly-haired cat involves some specific considerations, especially concerning their unique coats, you know. You need to brush them regularly to avoid matting and to maintain the color and texture of their natural coat. The frequency of brushing can vary depending on the breed and the tightness of their curls. For instance, a Selkirk Rex with its dense, shaggy curls will likely need more frequent grooming than a short-haired Cornish Rex. It's pretty important to keep up with this, so.

Brushing helps to remove loose hairs and prevent tangles, which can become uncomfortable for the cat if left unattended. It also helps to distribute the natural oils across their skin and fur, keeping their coat healthy and shiny. A soft brush or a wide-toothed comb is usually best for these delicate curls. It’s also a good idea to make grooming a positive experience from a young age, so they get used to it and even enjoy it. This can be a very bonding activity, actually.

Beyond coat care, these cats, like all pets, need a balanced diet, regular veterinary check-ups, and plenty of mental and physical stimulation. Their playful and social natures mean they appreciate interactive toys and opportunities to play with their human family. Providing scratching posts and climbing structures is also important for their well-being. They are, in some respects, just like any other cat in needing love and attention, but with that special coat care, you know.

It’s also worth noting that some curly-haired breeds, especially those with very sparse coats like the Cornish Rex, might be more sensitive to temperature changes. They may appreciate a warm bed or a cozy sweater in cooler climates. Understanding the specific needs of your chosen curly hair cat breed will help you provide the best possible care, ensuring they live a happy and healthy life. You can learn more about cat grooming tips on our site, which might be helpful.

Health Considerations for Curly Hair Breeds

These cats have unique looks, and their personalities are truly special, and they also have particular health needs, which is good to know. While generally robust, like any breed, they can be predisposed to certain conditions. It’s always a good idea to research the specific health concerns of the breed you are considering and to choose a reputable breeder who screens their cats for genetic issues. This is a very important step, actually, for ensuring a healthy pet.

One common question about curly-haired cats is their potential impact on allergies. These cats may be less prone to shedding and allergies for some individuals, which is a big plus for many. The unique structure of their fur, particularly in breeds like the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, can mean they produce less of the Fel d 1 protein, which is a common allergen. However, it's important to remember that no cat is truly hypoallergenic, and individual reactions can vary. It’s always best to spend time with the breed before committing, you know.

Aside from their curly fur, some breeds, like the Selkirk Rex, have curly eyebrows and whiskers that become more noticeable as they age. While charming, this can sometimes lead to minor irritations if the whiskers curl into their eyes, so regular checks are a good idea. The rex cat breed has very unique traits and is often recognized by its plush waved fur, and learning about each type of rex cat can help you find out if one is the right pet for you. They are, in some respects, quite special in their physical makeup, too.

Regular veterinary check-ups are vital for all cats, including those with curly hair, to ensure they remain in top condition. Vaccinations, parasite control, and dental care are all part of responsible pet ownership. Understanding the genetic basis of their curls, whether dominant or recessive, also gives insight into their breeding and potential health predispositions. You can find more information about cat health and wellness here, which might be very useful, you know.

Frequently Asked Questions About Curly Hair Cat Breeds

Are curly hair cat breeds good for people with allergies?

Many people wonder about this, and it's a very common question, actually. While no cat is truly hypoallergenic, some curly hair cat breeds, like the Devon Rex and Cornish Rex, are often considered better for people with allergies. This is because their unique coat structure may produce less of the Fel d 1 protein, which is a common allergen, and they tend to shed less. It's always best to spend time with the specific breed to see how you react before bringing one home, you know, as individual sensitivities vary greatly.

Do curly hair cat breeds require special grooming?

Yes, in a way, they do require some specific grooming, so. You need to brush them regularly to avoid matting and to maintain the color and texture of their natural coat. The exact needs depend on the breed; for instance, the Selkirk Rex with its dense, shaggy curls will need more frequent brushing than the short-haired Cornish Rex. Gentle brushing is key to preserving their unique curl pattern and keeping their fur healthy and clean. It’s pretty important to be consistent with this care.

What are the personalities of curly hair cat breeds like?

Curly cats generally have great personalities, which is truly wonderful, you know. They are often described as friendly, very outgoing, incredibly social, and just plain fun to be around. They thrive on human interaction and often form strong bonds with their families, frequently seeking attention and wanting to be involved in household activities. Their playful and affectionate nature makes them very engaging and rewarding companions for many different types of homes. They are, in some respects, truly delightful pets.

Considering a Curly Companion

Thinking about adding a new member to your pet family and considering cats with curly hair? It's a truly unique choice, and these felines, with their unique and adorable coats, are a sight to behold, you know. Here are four cat breeds with curly coats that are recognized by the International Cat Association (TICA) and the Cat Fanciers’ Association (CFA), and they offer something truly special for any home. They have unique looks, personalities and health needs, and may be less prone to shedding and allergies, which is a great benefit for some.

This list of cat breeds with curly hair provides a solid foundation for understanding each breed by characteristic, so you can make an informed decision. The rex cat breed has very unique traits and is often recognized by its plush waved fur, and learning about each type of rex cat can help you find out if one is the right pet for you. They are friendly, outgoing, social, and fun to be around, making them truly wonderful companions. You know, they really do bring a lot of joy to a home.

Don’t let anyone tell you these unique cats aren't amazing. They are, in a way, quite special, and they’re loved for a reason. Dive in to find out interesting facts about these adorable curly haired cat breeds! You can also visit the TICA website for more information on recognized cat breeds. Discover four breeds you'll adore, and maybe one of these charming, curly-coated companions will be the perfect addition to your family, actually.

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