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Cats › Breeds › American Curl

🐈 American Curl Cat — Complete Breed Profile

✓ Profile verifiedSources: CFA · PetMDVerified: Oct 18, 2026
American Curl cat breed profile photo

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Lifespan12–16 years
Weight5-8 lb
Coat & colorEars curl back, away from the face; available in a variety of colors and patterns
RecognitionCFA-recognized
Origin of profileCFA + PetMD

How long do American Curl cats live?

12–16 years is the typical range. 12–16 years is the expected range for this breed (PetMD breed profile). Individual cats vary — lean body weight, dental care and regular checkups move the number more than anything else.

Personality & temperament

Temperament descriptions for this rare breed are limited; meet the individual cat where possible — breed is a tendency, not a guarantee.

"Once this curly-eared charmer walks into your home, life will never be the same again." — CFA official breed profile

Do American Curls need a lot of grooming?

Moderate shorthair shedding — a weekly brush keeps it (and your sofa) under control. This breed is widely described as low-maintenance for coat care.

Health notes for American Curls

The CFA breed profile discusses health considerations for this breed; review it with your breeder and vet. Every cat, purebred or not, needs: annual vet exams (twice-yearly after age 7), dental care, parasite prevention, weight watching, and vaccines on your vet’s schedule.

Is a American Curl right for you?

Generally good with respectful children — interactions still need supervision, and kids must learn gentle handling. Cats are obligate carnivores: they must get certain nutrients (taurine, arachidonic acid, preformed vitamin A) from animal tissue, so a complete, balanced cat food should always be the base of the diet.

Before adopting, read the cat care library — and consider that adult shelter cats also "come in breed-ish packages" without the breeder price tag.

People also ask about American Curl cats

How long do American Curl cats live?

American Curl cats typically live 12–16 years. 12–16 years is the expected range for this breed (PetMD breed profile). Indoor life, lean weight and routine vet care are the biggest longevity levers owners control.

Do American Curls shed a lot?

Shedding: Moderate shorthair shedding — a weekly brush keeps it (and your sofa) under control.

How much do American Curls weigh?

Adult american curls typically weigh 5-8 lb.

Are American Curls good with kids?

Generally good with respectful children — interactions still need supervision, and kids must learn gentle handling.

Are American Curls friendly with strangers and other pets?

Temperament is individual, but breed tendencies give useful expectations. Slow introductions and vertical space (cat trees, shelves) make multi-pet homes smoother.

Sources & verification