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Addictional informatio
n (Wiki):
The American Curl is a breed of cat
characterized by its unusual ears, which
curl back from the face toward the
center of the back of the skull. An
American Curl's ears should be handled
carefully because rough handling may
damage the cartilage in the ear. The
breed originated in Lakewood, California
as the result of a spontaneous mutation.
In June, 1981, two stray kittens were
found and taken in by the Ruga family.
The kittens were both longhaired, one
black and the other black and white. The
family named them Shulamith and Panda
respectively, but Panda disappeared
several weeks later, making Shulamith
the foundation female of the American
Curl breed.
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. |
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