American Curl: Cures And Characteristics
Curled back and half-moon shaped ears are the main feature of the American curl cat. Handsome, docile, agile and very affectionate, he makes a perfect pet, especially for children. Below we see the care to be dedicated to this animal and its physical characteristics to get to know this feline better.
Throughout history, the human species has considered cats to be docile, tameable and very cunning animals. And that’s exactly what the American curl is, a breed that has spread since 1981 in California, United States of America.
These felines were registered by The International Cat Association in 1987. Six years later their pedigree gained full recognition from the Cat Fanciers’ Association, CFA.
The American curl is believed to be a cheerful pet, who likes to climb and play. It is an excellent company for adults and children; in most cases it gets along well with other animals, such as dogs. He loves to greet with a light head to receive a caress in return.
The ears of the American curl
This exuberant mammal is distinguished from other cat breeds known around the world for its curious ears. Slightly bent backwards, up to about 90 degrees, they are formed from a fragile cartilage tissue. The inclination can be three degrees: slightly curved, clearly curved and half-moon.
At birth the ears are stiff, ten days later they start to curl and at five months they take on the permanent shape. This kind of curl is the consequence of a spontaneous genetic evolution, the first known exponent of which was Shulamith, which means “beautiful black”.
This kitten arrived at Joe and Grace Ruga’s home in Lakegood, California. The couple was attracted by the shape of his ears and they decided to adopt it ; in her first litter of four kittens, two inherited this curious trait.
A show cat
Breeders and geneticists confirmed the presence of a hereditary factor in the ears, which is why it was a new breed. The procedures for obtaining recognition were thus initiated.
Nowadays, these cats participate in exhibitions and competitions; docile, reliable, affectionate and active, they are very homely animals. Aside from Shulamith, there are several famous American curls: Ray Smuckles from the online comic Achewood and Catscratch’s Waffle are two of them.
Long and short hair
The ears are the quintessential feature of this breed. The American curl can be short-haired, lightly or moderately thick and shiny. Another variety is longhaired, with the same characteristics of brilliance, abundance and softness to the touch.
There are specimens of all colors, even white with blue eyes or different shades of brown, red, lilac and even silver. They are all of impressive beauty and a great personality that makes them lively, affectionate and playful. They are very tender cats with funny movements.
American curl treatment
As for the care of the American curl cat, the first aspect to consider is the cleaning of the ears. Eliminating any kind of dirt and accumulated earwax must be done carefully to avoid damaging its delicate cartilage.
It should be brushed once a week and it is good to bathe it when it is convenient. Regular visits to the vet are also part of the American curl’s care.
How to feed it?
American curl cats need to eat a lot of meat; from it they get the proteins and fats necessary for their development. It is important to minimize carbohydrate intake due to the slow metabolism of this breed. Consuming these nutrients could lead to diseases such as obesity or diabetes.
Characteristics of the American Curl cat
The body of the American curl is slender, elongated and elegant, with round legs. It weighs between two and five kilos, and is between 40 and 50 centimeters tall; it has solid musculature, the head is longer than it is wide and the nose is heart-shaped. It can live between 13 and 17 years.
With a strong and symmetrical chin, concave muzzle and straight, visible whiskers, the American curl looks good. It has round, separate eyes of different colors ranging from yellow to blue. The tail is hairy and almost as long as the body.
This beautiful cat, with spectacular and curious ears, is a playful and tender pet, ideal for children and adults. Knowing the care to be given to him and his physical characteristics will help us to enjoy this beautiful cat breed even more.
