The LaPerm’s coat is easy to groom. Comb it once a week to prevent or remove mats or tangles. He usually doesn’t shed much, but occasionally the LaPerm may go through a heavy shed, after which his coat comes in thicker than before. In some instances, LaPerms “molt” and end up with a sparse coat that never really grows back. The hormonal changes that occur after spay/neuter surgery usually ensure a nice, full coat.The only other grooming the LaPerm needs is regular nail trimming and ear cleaning if the ears look dirty. Use a gentle cleanser recommended by your veterinarian. Brush the teeth frequently with a vet-approved pet toothpaste for good overall health and fresh breath.Start brushing, nail trimming, and teeth brushing when your cat is still a kitten, and he will accept these activities later on.
The LaPerm’s unusual coat is easy to care for and usually doesn’t mat or tangle if it is combed or brushed one to three times a week. Longer coats should be groomed more frequently. Use a comb with revolving teeth for best results. It will go through the coat easily without straightening the curls. To keep the cat looking his curly best, mist the coat with a little water or fluff it with damp hands to set the curls.The coat sheds little, and shedding is further reduced with regular brushing. If small mats develop, brush them out gently with a slicker brush or greyhound comb (stainless steel with narrow teeth at one end and wider teeth at the other end).If you give the LaPerm a bath, press a towel against the coat to soak up moisture and then let him air dry in a warm, draft-free spot. Using a blow dryer will give him a bad case of the frizzies.Brush the teeth to prevent periodontal disease. Daily dental hygiene is best, but weekly brushing is better than nothing. Trim the nails weekly. Wipe the corners of the eyes with a soft, damp cloth to remove any discharge. Use a separate area of the cloth for each eye so you don’t run the risk of spreading any infection.Check the ears weekly. If they look dirty, wipe them out with a cotton ball or soft damp cloth moistened with a 50-50 mixture of cider vinegar and warm water. Avoid using cotton swabs, which can damage the interior of the ear.Keep the litter box spotlessly clean. Cats are very particular about bathroom hygiene.It’s a good idea to keep a LaPerm as an indoor-only cat to protect him from diseases spread by other cats, attacks by dogs or coyotes, and the other dangers that face cats who go outdoors, such as being hit by a car. LaPerms who go outdoors also run the risk of being stolen by someone who would like to have such an unusual cat without paying for it.
