American Curl (Shorthair) Cats

A ginger shorthair american curl with a pink nose

Alert and wide-eyed american curl cat against a green background

A pair of alert american curl cats against a white background

Tabby american curl cat lying down looking forward

History

The American Curl breed first appeared in California in 1981. Due to a random mutation, one particular stray kitten had ears that curled backwards. The stray was adopted and named Shulamith, and her new owners decided to breed a new variety from her. All American Curl cats alive today trace their ancestry back to Great-Grandma Shulamith.

The American Curl began to appear in cat shows in the mid-80s, and soon gained interest from cat fanciers. Breeding programs were established, with feline geneticist Roy Robinson, from the UK, spearheading the development of the new breed. He discovered that the gene behind the iconic ear curl was a dominant one. The studies also revealed the good news that this was a very healthy breed, with no genetic defects.

Behaviour

Curls combine a unique look with a fantastic personality. They are very active and playful at all times, and their inquisitiveness takes them into every last corner of their home and garden. They are very loyal, and touchingly fond of their owners, happily involving themselves in whatever you're doing, and following you around the house. They are quiet cats, too, but have a gentle trilling chirp which they use to grab your attention when they want something. American Curls are suitable for families with children and other pets as their chilled-out nature makes them agreeable and adaptable.