Rex cat Medium size 3-5 kg

Laperm Shorthair

A friendly, curious curly-coated cat that stays close to its people - low-shedding and easygoing with modest grooming.

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Find out how this breed matches your household

Quick overview

Medium
Size
3-5 kg, 20-25 cm at the shoulder
Moderate
Activity
Playful in bursts, then settles
Moderate
Alone-time tolerance
Tolerates some time on its own
Moderate
Handling
Cooperative with a little patience
Low
Coat care
Fine wavy coat; gentle low-shedding care
Good
Fit with kids
Fine with considerate kids
Good
Other pets
Usually fine with cats and calm dogs
Moderate
Health burden
Obesity, Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)

The Laperm Shorthair typically weighs 3-5 kg, stands 20-25 cm, and lives 12-16 years.

Consider this breed if…

you want a curly cat with a lower-maintenance short coat,
you like an affectionate, curious cat that stays close to you,
you have children or other pets and want a social, adaptable cat,
you prefer a lower-shedding cat that still enjoys company.

Do not consider this breed if…

you want an aloof, low-contact cat that keeps its distance,
the home is empty most days and a second pet is not possible,
you expect a completely allergen-free or no-groom cat,
you cannot budget for heart screening or unexpected vet care.

A typical day with a Laperm Shorthair

  1. 7:00 · Morning
    Greets you, wants attention and breakfast
  2. 9:00 · Midmorning
    Bursts of play and climbing, then rests
  3. 13:00 · Noon
    Naps in a sunny spot near your day
  4. 17:00 · Afternoon
    Curious exploring and wand-toy play
  5. 19:30 · Evening
    Settles on a lap for company and cuddles
  6. 22:00 · Night
    Sleeps near or on the bed

Temperament and training

Sociability High
Tolerance of handling High
Playfulness Moderate
Vocality Low
Hunting drive Moderate
Independence Low
Common owner mistakes
Assuming a rex coat needs no care at all · Leaving a social cat alone too long with no companion or enrichment · Free-feeding an indoor cat until it becomes overweight

Family and environment

Kids Good
Social and tolerant with considerate children.
Other cats Good
Gets along; appreciates a companion when you are out.
Dogs Good
Usually fine with calm, cat-friendly dogs.
Apartment Ideal
Indoor life suits it well with play and vertical space.
Seniors Great fit
Affectionate and easy; the short coat needs little care.
First cat Great fit
Easygoing and forgiving of beginner mistakes.
Busy household Conditional
A social cat; long empty days call for a companion.
Health data provided by RealVetCost
Overall health burden Moderate

Detailed health data - inheritance, prevalence, course, and typical treatment costs - lives in a separate expert database. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice - confirm any decision with your vet.

View the full health profile
Top health concerns
Obesity Indoor cats gain weight easily; watch portions
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) Most common feline heart disease; echo screening helps
Kidney disease Chronic kidney decline, more common with age
Dental disease Plaque and gum disease; routine dental care helps

Similar breeds - by reason

Not visually similar - similar in what they mean for you.

The same breed with a fuller curly coat
Laperm Longhair
An affectionate curly-coated cat that seeks out laps and shoulders - the loose curls need regular but gentle grooming.
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Another affectionate short curly-coated rex
Cornish Rex
A playful, warm-seeking cat with a soft wavy coat and low shedding - very people-focused and not fond of being left alone.
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People-oriented rex cat with a soft wavy coat
Devon Rex
A mischievous, people-obsessed pixie of a cat with a soft wavy coat - endlessly playful but really dislikes being left alone.
View profile →

Frequently asked questions

How much does a Laperm cost in the US?
The Laperm is a rare breed, so kittens are usually waitlisted and may involve travel to a reputable breeder. Pet-quality kittens commonly run about $800-$2,000. Over a 12-16 year life, food, litter, and routine vet care typically add $10,000-$18,000 or more, and a chronic issue can add thousands on top.
What is the difference between the shorthair and longhair Laperm?
They are the same breed and can appear in the same litter; only the coat length differs. The shorthair has a springy, textured wavy coat that lies closer to the body and sheds even less, while the longhair carries fuller, looser curls. Temperament and care needs are otherwise the same.
Is the Laperm hypoallergenic?
Not truly. The curly coat sheds little and some allergy sufferers tolerate it better, but no cat is genuinely hypoallergenic since the main allergen comes from saliva and skin, not just loose hair. Spend time with the breed first if allergies are a concern.
Are Laperms affectionate cats?
Yes, they are known for being people-oriented and curious, often following their owners from room to room and seeking laps. That sociability is a big part of the appeal, and it means they do best with company rather than long stretches home alone.