Curly-haired cat breeds not only sport adorably mussed coats—they are also rare! Curly cats are perfect for cat owners who want a unique-looking feline to snap pictures of. Plus, their wavy tresses are perfect for cuddles.
Here are four curly-haired cat breeds to consider adding to your clowder.
Breed Characteristics
"Curly or wavy-coated breeds are unique,” says Kristi Crow, DVM, at City Way Animal Clinics - Fountain Square in Indianapolis, Ind. “Their striking appearances are often a selling point for cat lovers wanting a unique looking cat.” However, these kinds of cats can be rare, which makes them extra special. Aside from their curly coat, “these breeds are known for being friendly and affectionate toward their owners,” says Anna Landry, DVM and veterinarian at Ark Animal Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana. “Unlike most mixed-breed cats, these breeds are people-oriented.” Many of the cats within this breed also don’t require a great deal of grooming (although some cats require some more effort than others).
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Devon Rex
The Devon Rex may look like an alien at first glance, but this curly-haired cat breed's unique look is quite endearing. Devon Rex cats have a short and thin wavy coat that can vary in color and coat patterns, with solid, tabby, shaded, tortoiseshell, calico being the most well-known. “Their fur is short and wavy, which often draws comparisons to that of a poodle,” says Sara Ochoa, DVM, veterinarian, and co-founder of How To Pets. And like a poodle, you won’t have to worry too much about constantly cleaning up hair as Devon Rex cats experience minimal shedding. Aside from their beautiful hair, Devon Rex cats are energetic and enjoy playing with their owners and fellow felines alike.
Breed Overview
Height: 18 inches
Weight: 6 to 9 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Active, playful, and social
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Short and thin, wavy coat in any color
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Cornish Rex
Looking for a curly-haired cat with a relatively calm disposition? The Cornish Rex is a great choice. When it comes to their coat, their hair is typically short and curly and common coat colors include blue, black, brown, lilac, chocolate, red, smoke, and cream. As far as grooming goes, these highly affectionate yet easygoing cats don’t require much due to their short coats. With this in mind, a Cornish Rex could be a great option if you suffer from allergies, but still want a cat that won’t shed too much. Despite their wide-eyed stares, Cornish Rex cats are very easygoing cats who love their families.
Breed Overview
Height: 18 inches
Weight: Up to 10 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Sociable, playful, interactive, and affectionate
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Short, curly coat in colors including blue, black, brown, lilac, chocolate, red, smoke, and cream
Life Span: Up to 20 years
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Selkirk Rex
Despite their tousled curly hair (which can be short or long), Selkirk Rex cats’ hair is typically soft to the touch and can be any genetically possible color or pattern, such as tortoiseshell or smoke. These cats are more laid-back and aren’t as energetic as some of their counterparts, so be sure to keep that in mind. Still, it's important to both physically and mentally stimulate your kitty cat with plenty of playtime.
Breed Overview
Height: Up to 30 inches
Weight: Up to 16 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Relaxed and friendly
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short or long curly coat in any genetically possible color or combination
Life Span: Up to 15 years
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LaPerm
If you don’t mind a bit of extra maintenance when it comes to coat care, a LaPerm may be perfect for you. These active and friendly cats have a hairdo that resembles a human perm, which typically requires extra grooming and brushing time to prevent matting, according to Crow. Despite the extra effort it may take to properly care for LaPerms, these curly-haired cats can provide great companionship to their owners via cuddles and frequent interactions.
Breed Overview
Height: Between 12 and 18 inches
Weight: Between 6 and 10 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Active, curious, friendly, playful, and affectionate
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Generally a short and wavy coat in any genetically possible color or combination
Breeds to Avoid
When it comes to curly-haired breeds to avoid, Landry recommends staying away from those who come from untrustworthy breeders. “Unfortunately, there are many breeders that continue to breed dogs and cats without health screenings,” says Landry.” This leads to pets that are born with conditions that can become chronic illnesses and lead to poor or even shortened quality of life.”
Whether or not you’ll want to avoid a curly-haired cat breed will depend on your preferences. If you want a cat that has curly hair, but will not shed too much, it is best to opt for a Devon Rex and avoid La Perms.