American Wirehair
Appearance
Gallery
Origin
Temperament
English
Appearance
Gallery
Origin
Temperament
Appearance
Gallery
Origin
Temperament
English
Appearance
Gallery
Origin
Temperament

American Wirehair

The American Wirehair is indeed a breed of domestic cat that originates from Staten Island, New York. It is known for its unique wiry fur and crinkly whiskers, which are caused by a genetic mutation. As of 2017, despite being well-known, the breed is considered the rarest among the 41 Cat Fanciers' Association breeds.
Male
Female
length
28-33
11-13
cminch
cm inch 
hight
23-28
9.1-11
cminch
cm inch 
weight
3.6-5.4
7.9-11.9
kglbs
kg lbs 
weight
2
4
kglbs
kg lbs 
life span
10-16 years
Size
Moderate
US
Country of Origin:
USA
Sh
Fur Length:
Short
Mu
Breed origin:
Mutation
Recognized by: 5 registers
ACFA
CCCOFA
CCA-AFC
ACA
GCCF
LOOF
TSACC
CFSA
ACF
FIFE
WCF
NZCF
TICA
CFA

Appearance

American Wirehairs have a moderate, sturdy build with round heads, high cheekbones, and a pronounced muzzle. Their eyes are medium to large in size, rounded, and typically yellow, although some white individuals may have blue or amber eyes. They have medium-length legs, round feet, and a thick tail that tapers towards a rounded tip. Females are generally smaller than males. The most distinctive characteristic of the American Wirehair is its coat, which is springy and wiry, resembling the wire coats of certain dog breeds like terriers. This unique coat extends to the fur on their ears and whiskers. American Wirehairs come in a variety of coat colors, excluding cinnamon, chocolate, and lilac for competition purposes.
Coat type
Eye colour
Fur colour
Body type
Ears
Eyes shape
Fur length
Fur type
Head shape
Tail
Coat type
Eye colour
Fur colour
Body type
Ears
Eyes shape
Fur length
Fur type
Head shape
Tail

Origin

The first American Wirehair was discovered in a litter of five born to a pair of barn cats in Vernon, New York in 1966. This unique red-and-white male had a wiry coat, which was a result of a genetic defect. The owner of the cats contacted a local breeder of Rex cats, Mrs. Joan O'Shea, to examine the kitten. Mrs. O'Shea purchased the kitten, along with one of his regular-coated female littermates, to initiate a breeding program. By crossing the two, a litter of curly-haired cats was produced, many of which were sold to other interested breeders. As the population expanded, cats were exported to countries like Canada and Germany, where they gained popularity. The breed flourished, and in 1967, it was officially recognized by the CFA. By 1978, it was accepted for championship competition.
Parent animals
Breed origin
Origin countries

Temperament

American Wirehairs are sociable and affectionate cats with a balanced character. They are intelligent, loyal, and curious, equally content to play or snuggle up in their owners' laps. Known for their humorous nature, these cats are gentle and quiet, yet also playful and active. They typically prefer to stay indoors and have soft voices.
Activity Level:
Active

Keeping conditions

Diet preferences
Reproduction
Grooming
Common health issues
Diet preferences
Reproduction
Grooming
Common health issues
Just like all other cats, American Wirehairs are carnivores. They do not have any special dietary requirements. They need a high-protein diet and constant access to fresh water.
American Wirehairs usually give birth to 4-5 kittens per litter, a moderate-sized brood for this breed. While these kittens can be weaned as early as 8 weeks, many breeders recommend waiting until they are 12 weeks old before separating them from their mother.
Litter size
4-5 kittens
kittens
The maintenance of American Wirehairs' fur is relatively low, as their wirehair coats do not require excessive grooming. It is advisable to let them manage their grooming habits on their own and only intervene with brushing when it is essential. These cats have delicate hair that can easily break, so minimal interference is recommended. Occasionally, their skin may become oily and sensitive, necessitating occasional bathing to help eliminate loose hairs and maintain overall hygiene. Prioritizing oral health is crucial for all cat breeds, and establishing a consistent home brushing routine is essential. Regular veterinary check-ups and professional dental cleanings are also vital for maintaining your pet's overall well-being.
Shedding
Normal
Grooming intencity
Easy to groom
American Wirehairs are typically in good health; however, there are potential risks such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hip dysplasia. Responsible breeders will conduct health screenings for kittens, but ongoing monitoring into adulthood is crucial.

References

  1. American Wirehair Wikipedia article https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Wirehair