Curly-Haired Cat Breeds
Curly coats come from natural gene changes. They look like a perm, and each breed’s curls are different.
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1. Cornish Rex
Tight, plush waves, with no guard hairs.
Small to medium · Often 11 to 15 years
Read the Cornish Rex guide → -
2. Devon Rex
Soft, wavy fur and a pixie face.
Small to medium · Often 12 to 15 years
Read the Devon Rex guide → -
3. Selkirk Rex
The plush, curly “teddy bear”.
Medium to large · Often 12 to 15 years
Read the Selkirk Rex guide → -
4. LaPerm
Soft ringlets and a warm, lap-loving nature.
Small to medium · Often 12 to 15 years
Read the LaPerm guide → -
5. American Curl
Not a curly coat but curled ears: another natural gene curiosity.
Medium · Often 12 to 16 years
Read the American Curl guide →
Breed is only part of the story: every cat is an individual, and most cats in the UK are moggies. Meet the cat before you decide, and think about rescue cats too. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Questions people ask
Are curly-haired cats hypoallergenic?
No. Cat allergens come from saliva and skin as well as fur.
How do you groom a curly coat?
Gently. Heavy brushing can make the curls frizzy or break them.
