American Curl
The curl goes backward rather than forward, and unlike the Scottish Fold's mutation it is not linked to skeletal disease. Kittens are born straight-eared and the curl develops over the first week.
- Coat
- Medium
- Build
- Ordinary cat shape
- Head
- Wedge
- Weight
- 2.5–5 kg
- Origin
- United States
What it looks like
Moderate in build with ears that curve backward and away from the face in a smooth arc, and a silky coat lying flat against the body.
The characters that confirm it
- Ears curving backward away from the face, firm at the base with a flexible tip.
- Kittens straight-eared at birth, curling within about a week and setting by four months.
- A silky flat-lying coat with minimal undercoat.
- Moderate build with no exaggeration.
Temperament
Playful into adulthood, sociable and even-tempered.
Health
No breed-specific disease associated with the ear mutation. The ear cartilage is firm and should be handled gently.
Confused with
Folds bend forward and down; Curls arc backward. The two mutations are unrelated, and only the fold causes joint disease.
Questions about this breed
How do you recognise a American Curl?
Ears curving backward away from the face, firm at the base with a flexible tip. Kittens straight-eared at birth, curling within about a week and setting by four months.
What is a American Curl like to live with?
Playful into adulthood, sociable and even-tempered.
What health problems do American Curls have?
No breed-specific disease associated with the ear mutation. The ear cartilage is firm and should be handled gently.