American Curl

History
The American Curl has a very short history. The breed originated in June 1981 as a spontaneous genetic mutation in the domestic cat population. By 1986 it was recognized by two of the largest cat registries.

American Curl history began June 1981 in Lakewood, California. Two curled cats wandered up to the doorstep of cat lovers Joe and Grace Ruga. One disappeared soon after arriving. The other, a longhaired black cat that Ruga named Shulamith stayed . In December 1981, Shulamith delivered her first litter of four kittens. Of the four, two had ears that curled. A geneticist was contacted to study this phenomenon and he confirmed that this unusual ear was a genetic trait and was inherited in every case, causing it to be labelled a dominant gene, with no deformities attached to it. Referred to as a spontaneous mutation, the gene that causes the ear to curl appeared to be following a single dominant pattern.

Appearance
The ideal American Curl is a medium sized, alert cat with an elegant appearance and a sweet, open expression complimented by their remarkable ears. At birth, Curl kittens look like any other kitten, but between one and seven days the ears get firmer and start to plump up and curve back. American Curls come in both longhair and shorthair with both varieties having soft, silky, lustrous, flat-lying coats.

Personality
American Curls are very people-oriented, faithful, and affectionate cats. They love companionship and adjust remarkably fast to other pet animals, children, and new situations. Curls are even-tempered and intelligent. They are known for their affinity with children.