Page 133 - The Complete Cat Breed Book (DK)

SHOR THAIRS 131

AMERICAN WIREHAIR

THIS VERSATILE, FRIENDLY CAT IS HAPPY INDOORS OR OUTDOORS AND WITH FAMILIES OF ALL AGES

Large, round copper-
Place of origin USA In New York State, in 1966, a wire-haired kitten appeared in colored eyes
Date of origin 1960s a litter born to two domestic cats with normal coats. This was
Breed registries CFA, TICA the founder of the American Wirehair breed, which was later
Weight range 8–15lb (3.5–7kg) developed by using American Shorthairs (p.61). The genetic
Grooming
mutation that produced the distinctive coat is not known to
have occurred anywhere outside the US. In a Wirehair, each hair
Colors and patterns is crimped and bends over or forms a hook at the end, resulting
Variety of solid colors and in a coarse, springy texture that has been likened to steel wool.
shades in various patterns,
including bicolor, tabby, In some cats the coat can be brittle, so grooming—preferably by
and tortoiseshell. bathing—should be gentle to avoid damage.

Curly
whiskers
Dense, springy
brown classic tabby
and white coat with
Prominent crimped hairs and
cheekbones coarse texture

Medium-size ears
with rounded tips
Medium to large, Back level from
well-muscled body
shoulders to rump
Rounded
rump

Medium-boned,
muscular legs

Firm,
rounded
paws