If you like exotic looking pets, then you will love meeting the American Wirehair cat. Also known as the wirehaired cat, this breed has a charming personality and is relatively new. However, it is still not well known around the world.

In addition, animals of this breed are very loyal to the owner, in addition to being energetic and enjoy running and playing around the house. Generally speaking, the American Wirehair cat closely resembles its American Shorthair relative, but is by no means a clingy pet. So, do you want to know more about this breed with different physical characteristics? Just keep following!

First of all, the first examples of the breed appeared in the United States in the 1960s. A cat belonging to a family in New York gave birth, to which one of the kittens had rough and curly hair. That is, this breed is actually the result of a genetic mutation, and later developed into the American Wirehair kittens of today.

In fact, the first specimen of the breed ended up being sold to a breeder, who was soon enchanted by the lovely personality of the cat. So, she decided to cross him with an American Shorthair cat, so the number of American Wirehair cats increased until they were recognized as an official breed in 1978.

So, American Wirehair cats are athletic and very strong. Thus, they have a muscular body, with strong limbs and solid bone structure. Its ribcage is wide, muzzle and jaws are strong and all components of its body are well developed.

Furthermore, its head is rounded, as well as its snout, and its eyes are large and round as well. There is no specific color, so eye color varies according to the cat's coat. Incidentally, the hair of the American Wirehair cat is what draws attention to this breed.

Well, the American Wirehair ends up drawing attention because the rough coat refers, as its name suggests, to a curly wire. By the way, even their mustaches are different, and some have them curly as well. There are no restrictions on color and pattern, so all variations are accepted.

Although it is a very popular breed in North America, the American Wirehair cat is still rare in Brazil and other parts of the world. In other words, it can be difficult to find a cattery or breeding center that offers puppies for purchase in the country. However, its value in the United States tends to vary between US$800.00 to US$1,200.00.

In fact, this cat is not considered a cheap breed, and it can also be difficult to find even on American soil. Therefore, avoid acquiring a puppy from unknown breeders, as you may be funding clandestine breeding, with no security for the animal.

By the way, it's always important to visit the place where you're going to buy the kitten, research the opinion of other people who bought it in the same place, in addition to meeting the kitten's parents. In this way, you can ensure that your pet is healthy, in addition to maintaining the breed standard, as responsible breeders also provide the breed's Pedigree.

So, the American Wirehair cat has a very robust, strong body, with legs with developed muscles. They are medium-sized cats, reaching up to 40 centimeters in height. Furthermore, males tend to be larger than females, weighing between 6 kg and 8 kg. Meanwhile, females of the breed can weigh up to 5.5 kg.

Although this breed is healthy, the American Wirehair ended up inheriting some health problems from its ancestor, the American Shorthair. For example, this cat is prone to developing dilated cardiomyopathy, a disease that affects the animal's heart. Or progressive retinal atrophy, which can cause blindness.

Also, due to the rough texture of its coat, this cat can develop some skin allergies. Therefore, more than ever, it is important to have a regular veterinarian follow-up to avoid more serious problems. However, a healthy and well cared for American Wirehair cat has an excellent life expectancy, they can live up to 20 years!

Although cats of the breed are very affectionate and tend to call attention to ask for attention, they are reluctant animals with strangers. In this sense, these cats take time to trust new people and accept being touched, so be patient and try to put them at ease.

Furthermore, the American Wirehair cat is an extremely intelligent animal, and you can even teach it some tricks. However, it's important to provide games and activities that challenge his intellect, or he might get bored.

In addition, the American Wirehair are very active and playful cats, and their robust body is perfect for running and jumping. So investing in shelves, scratching posts, and creating good environmental enrichment is necessary to keep your kitty happy.

Although he has an exotic coat, with a rough and hard texture, it is not necessary to brush him more than once a week. It is also not recommended to bathe this cat, unless strictly necessary. That's because the lack of skin oil can end up causing irritation and allergies, so be careful!

Finally, like any cat, it's important to take the feline to a veterinary appointment regularly, especially to keep up to date with exams. Also, don't forget to keep vaccines and deworming up to date, in addition to offering a quality feed!

By the way, do you want to know everything about the closest relative of this breed, the American Shorthair cat? Then access our content below, and discover all the characteristics of this affectionate and relaxed feline. Check out!