American Curl History
In 1983, an American Curl was exhibited at a cat show for the first time, and in 1987, the longhaired American Curl was given championship status by The International Cat Association (TICA). In 1993, the American Curl became the first breed admitted to the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) Championship Class with both longhair and shorthair divisions .
The American Curl is a medium sized cat (5-10 lbs), and does not reach maturity until 2–3 years of age. They are strong and healthy, remarkably free of the genetic defects that affect many purebred cats.
American Curl kittens are born with straight ears, which begin to curl within ten days. After four months, their ears will not curl any longer, and should be hard and stiff to the touch. A pet quality American Curl may have almost straight ears, but showcats must have ears that curl in an arc between 90 and 180 degrees. A greater angle is preferable, but cats will be disqualified if their ears touch the back of their skulls.
Both longhaired and shorthaired American Curls have soft, silky coats which lie flat against their bodies. They require little grooming, but enjoy spending time with their owners.
The American Curl, while still an uncommon breed, is found across the world in the United States, Spain, France, Japan, Russia, and many other countries.
Characteristics and Temperment
When Curls are born, their ears are straight, but within two to ten days after birth, their ears begin to curl back. During the first 4 months, the kitten's ears will gradually curl and uncurl in varying degrees until they are set permanently at 4 months of age. At this age, breeders can determine the kitten's quality (pet, breeder, show). Along with the kitten's overall conformation to the breed standard, degree of curl to the ear is a key factor in determining quality as follows: first degree (pet), second degree (breeder), and third degree (show) being the most desirable curl to the ear, emulating the graceful curve of a full crescent. Ear furnishings (hair tufts) fanning outward from the ear accentuate and further enhance the curled ear.
The ideal American Curl is a medium sized, alert animal with an elegant appearance and a sweet, open expression complimented by their remarkable ears. Both longhair and shorthair Curls have soft, silky coats, but the longhair Curl has the distinction of sporting a beautiful plumed tail. Because both coat lengths have minimal undercoat resulting in non-matting hair, grooming an American Curl is easy -- an occasional bath and combing is all that is needed. Care should be taken when handling the ears to avoid breaking the cartilage -- do not force the ear into unnatural positions.
The Curl's temperament is one of curiosity and companionship. Being very people-oriented, they like to assist in all household projects and delight in "bumping heads" with their owners or new human acquaintances. Curls are even tempered and intelligent, yet they retain their kitten-type behavior throughout their adult life. Not overly talkative, the Curls will tell you when they need something or desire attention. American Curls easily adapt to almost any home situation and adjust to other animals remarkably well. Simply stated, they are extremely affectionate and absolutely ear-resistible!
Pricing of American Curls usually depends on each individual kitten's degree of curl, bloodlines, type and markings. Many breeders allow pickup of new kittens between 3 and 4 months of age. Along with reaching their permanent degree of curl by 4 months, kittens have had basic inoculations and developed the physical and social stability to adjust to a new environment. Four months is also the minimum age requirement for cat show participation and transportation of kittens by air.
Data refer: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Curl
http://www.fanciers.com/breed-faqs/american-curl-faq.html
- A complete and concise description of the American Curl.
- A Dutch breeder also working with Birmans. Site is in English and Dutch.
- Kissalan asukkien ja pentujen esittely sanoin ja kuvin, linkkejä. Persialais-, exotic- ja American Curl kasvatusta. Sijaitsee Helsingissä.
- New York City breeder. Breed information includes history and grooming tips. Photographs of their cats and kitten availability information.
- Zucht von Sibirian, Neva Masquerade und American Curl. Es werden Rasseportraits geboten, Die Züchter stellen ihre Tiere vor und informieren über Nachwuchs.
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