Fun Facts about the American Wirehair

Did you know that the American Wirehair breed is the result of a spontaneous mutation? In 1966 in upstate New York, two domestic shorthair cats were bred and produced a litter of kittens with one uniquely different kitten in the batch. This unique kitten was the result of a genetic mutation and was born with wire like hair that eventually grew out into tight ringlets all over the body. The cat became known as a wirehair. Although similar to the shorthair, this cat is set apart by its high cheekbones and coarse, crimp and wavy coat. Although wire like in appearance, some wirehair coats will turn to waves or even straighten out as they age. Some of the wirehairs have a simple coat, but their whiskers are wire like in texture and shape. This breed was recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association in 1967. For more fun facts, talk with your veterinarian Ashburn, VA.