The first American wirehair was born in 1966 in a Verona, New York barn. He was the only one in a litter of six American shorthair cats to display the wiry coat. This genetic mutation intrigued Joan O'Shea, who named the cat Adam and proceeded to breed the cat to develop the breed that we know today as the American wirehair.
The American Wirehair is a medium-sized cat with a wiry, short coat that has been compared to steel wool. Its coat can come in any pattern or color. The most noticeable characteristic of the American wirehair is the kinked, tight and coarse coat. The coat has the appearance of steel wool or a lamb's coat, and even the whiskers are curled. The coat may display any color or pattern. The cat's round, muscular body is medium in size, weighing an average of 8 to 15 pounds. The bright, rounded eyes convey a sweet expression. If you are looking for a curly-haired cutie to step into the role of feline friend, the American wirehair is a mellow and loving companion that is well suited to family life.
Personality
The American Wirehair is a sweet-natured, sociable cat that is friendly and affectionate. It makes a good playmate for children but doesn't demand constant attention or entertainment. This breed is also very smart and trainable. It enjoys the company of other animals, including cats and dogs. The American wirehair is an easy-going cat. It is adaptable to new situations. This cat is good-natured, active and playful, and it gets along with children and other household pets. The cat is intelligent and takes a keen interest in household activities. It enjoys a cozy lap and companionship, but the American wirehair also likes to indulge in independent pastimes, such as contentedly watching backyard birds from a sunny windowsill.
Breed Characteristics
| Origin: | New York, 1960s |
| Life Span: | 12-15 years |
| Nicknames: | No nicknames known |
American Wirehair Build Information
The American Wirehair is a medium-sized cat with a wiry, short coat that has been compared to steel wool. Its coat can come in any pattern or color. The most noticeable characteristic of the American wirehair is the kinked, tight and coarse coat. The coat has the appearance of steel wool or a lamb's coat, and even the whiskers are curled. The coat may display any color or pattern. The cat's round, muscular body is medium in size, weighing an average of 8 to 15 pounds. The bright, rounded eyes convey a sweet expression. If you are looking for a curly-haired cutie to step into the role of feline friend, the American wirehair is a mellow and loving companion that is well suited to family life.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
The American Wirehair is a sweet-natured, sociable cat that is friendly and affectionate. It makes a good playmate for children but doesn't demand constant attention or entertainment. This breed is also very smart and trainable. It enjoys the company of other animals, including cats and dogs. The American wirehair is an easy-going cat. It is adaptable to new situations. This cat is good-natured, active and playful, and it gets along with children and other household pets. The cat is intelligent and takes a keen interest in household activities. It enjoys a cozy lap and companionship, but the American wirehair also likes to indulge in independent pastimes, such as contentedly watching backyard birds from a sunny windowsill.
| Activity Level: | Moderate |
| Affection Level: | High |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very Friendly |
Appearance
Because the coarse hairs on an American wirehair can be easily damaged, this cat should be lightly brushed only on occasion during shedding season. Bathing the cat once a month with a mild shampoo will help to minimize oily buildup on the skin and prevent skin infections. Allow the coat to air dry, and do not brush or comb the coat while it is wet. Since the hair inside the ears is also curly, wax can buildup and lead to ear infections. Reduce the risk of ear infections by inspecting the ears every week and keeping them clean. Brushing your cat's teeth three times a week will maintain good oral and overall health.
| Grooming: | Minimal (Weekly brushing, nail trimming, ear and tooth cleaning) |
American Wirehair Common Health Conditions
American wirehairs live an average lifespan of 15 years. Because American shorthair cats are frequently used in American wirehair breeding programs, be aware of the potential for a serious genetic heart condition called feline hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Otherwise, they are generally healthy cats with few additional problems other than oily skin conditions.
American Wirehair Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
American wirehairs originated in the United States. The American wirehair is easy-going and good-natured. The cat is active and intelligent, and it takes an interest in everything around it. It is friendly and outgoing, but the American wirehair is also independent. American wirehairs weigh between 8 and 15 pounds. The American wirehair requires minimal grooming. The average lifespan for an American wirehair is 15 years.