Curly-Haired Cats: 4 Breeds with Unique Coats and Charming Personalities Discover rare, affectionate cats with eye-catching curls. By Jenna Clark Jenna Clark Jenna Clark is a freelance writer. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Updated on 06/17/25 Credit: Thomas Leirikh / Getty Images Key Takeaways Curly-haired cat breeds like the Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, Selkirk Rex, and LaPerm are known for their unique, low-shedding coats and affectionate temperaments.While some of these breeds are low maintenance, others (like the LaPerm) may require additional grooming due to their curly coats.Be cautious of breeders who do not conduct health screenings, as this could lead to cats with chronic health issues. Curly-haired cat breeds not only sport adorably mussed coats—they are also rare! Curly cats are perfect for cat owners who want a unique-looking feline to snap pictures of. Plus, their wavy tresses are perfect for cuddles. Here are four curly-haired cat breeds to consider adding to your clowder. Breed Characteristics "Curly or wavy-coated breeds are unique,” says Kristi Crow, DVM, at City Way Animal Clinics - Fountain Square in Indianapolis, Ind. “Their striking appearances are often a selling point for cat lovers wanting a unique looking cat.” However, these kinds of cats can be rare, which makes them extra special. Aside from their curly coat, “these breeds are known for being friendly and affectionate toward their owners,” says Anna Landry, DVM and veterinarian at Ark Animal Hospital in New Orleans, Louisiana. “Unlike most mixed-breed cats, these breeds are people-oriented.” Many of the cats within this breed also don’t require a great deal of grooming (although some cats require some more effort than others). 01 of 04 Devon Rex Credit: Getty Images/insonnia The Devon Rex may look like an alien at first glance, but this curly-haired cat breed's unique look is quite endearing. Devon Rex cats have a short and thin wavy coat that can vary in color and coat patterns, with solid, tabby, shaded, tortoiseshell, calico being the most well-known. “Their fur is short and wavy, which often draws comparisons to that of a poodle,” says Sara Ochoa, DVM, veterinarian, and co-founder of How To Pets. And like a poodle, you won’t have to worry too much about constantly cleaning up hair as Devon Rex cats experience minimal shedding. Aside from their beautiful hair, Devon Rex cats are energetic and enjoy playing with their owners and fellow felines alike. Breed Overview Height: 18 inchesWeight: 6 to 9 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Active, playful, and social Energy Level: HighCoat and Color: Short and thin, wavy coat in any color 02 of 04 Cornish Rex Credit: Okssi68/Getty Images Looking for a curly-haired cat with a relatively calm disposition? The Cornish Rex is a great choice. When it comes to their coat, their hair is typically short and curly and common coat colors include blue, black, brown, lilac, chocolate, red, smoke, and cream. As far as grooming goes, these highly affectionate yet easygoing cats don’t require much due to their short coats. With this in mind, a Cornish Rex could be a great option if you suffer from allergies, but still want a cat that won’t shed too much. Despite their wide-eyed stares, Cornish Rex cats are very easygoing cats who love their families. Breed Overview Height: 18 inchesWeight: Up to 10 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Sociable, playful, interactive, and affectionateEnergy Level: HighCoat and Color: Short, curly coat in colors including blue, black, brown, lilac, chocolate, red, smoke, and creamLife Span: Up to 20 years 03 of 04 Selkirk Rex Credit: Thomas Leirikh / Getty Images Despite their tousled curly hair (which can be short or long), Selkirk Rex cats’ hair is typically soft to the touch and can be any genetically possible color or pattern, such as tortoiseshell or smoke. These cats are more laid-back and aren’t as energetic as some of their counterparts, so be sure to keep that in mind. Still, it's important to both physically and mentally stimulate your kitty cat with plenty of playtime. Breed Overview Height: Up to 30 inchesWeight: Up to 16 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Relaxed and friendlyEnergy Level: MediumCoat and Color: Short or long curly coat in any genetically possible color or combinationLife Span: Up to 15 years 04 of 04 LaPerm Credit: kimberrywood/iStock/Getty Images If you don’t mind a bit of extra maintenance when it comes to coat care, a LaPerm may be perfect for you. These active and friendly cats have a hairdo that resembles a human perm, which typically requires extra grooming and brushing time to prevent matting, according to Crow. Despite the extra effort it may take to properly care for LaPerms, these curly-haired cats can provide great companionship to their owners via cuddles and frequent interactions. Breed Overview Height: Between 12 and 18 inchesWeight: Between 6 and 10 poundsPersonality/Temperament: Active, curious, friendly, playful, and affectionateEnergy Level: HighCoat and Color: Generally a short and wavy coat in any genetically possible color or combination Breeds to Avoid When it comes to curly-haired breeds to avoid, Landry recommends staying away from those who come from untrustworthy breeders. “Unfortunately, there are many breeders that continue to breed dogs and cats without health screenings,” says Landry.” This leads to pets that are born with conditions that can become chronic illnesses and lead to poor or even shortened quality of life.” Whether or not you’ll want to avoid a curly-haired cat breed will depend on your preferences. If you want a cat that has curly hair, but will not shed too much, it is best to opt for a Devon Rex and avoid La Perms. 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