American Wirehair: Mysterious Traits, Health Secrets, Unique Diet, Price Insights, and Essential Care-catpedia

The American Wirehair cat is a distinctive and rare breed, cherished by cat enthusiasts worldwide for its unique wiry coat and friendly personality. With an appearance unlike any other, this breed stands out as a delightful companion for those seeking something truly one-of-a-kind.

Originating in the United States, the American Wirehair has a rich history that enhances its charm. Its unusual coat texture is due to a genetic mutation that affects the hair shafts, creating a crimped or curled look. This gives the coat a dense, coarse texture, adding to the cat's remarkable character.

For those considering an American Wirehair, adoption through rescue organizations or shelters is highly recommended to provide a home to a cat in need. If purchasing, it’s essential to select a reputable breeder who follows ethical practices and places the well-being of their cats as a priority. Trustworthy breeders conduct necessary health screenings, maintain high standards of care, and nurture both the health and temperament of their cats, helping you welcome a healthy and happy pet while discouraging unethical breeding.

Quick Facts

• Origin: United States (1966), from a spontaneous mutation in a domestic shorthair kitten
• Size: Medium (8–12 pounds)
• Breed Group: Natural Breed
• Lifespan: 7–12 years
• Coat: Short, dense, wiry texture due to a unique gene; available in various colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, bi-color, and tortoiseshell
• Temperament: Easygoing, playful, affectionate, social, adaptable; good with children and other pets
• Exercise Needs: Moderate; enjoys playtime but also content to relax
• Training: Easily trainable due to intelligence and eagerness to please
• Grooming: It is advised to brush once a week to avoid matting, particularly around the ears.
• Health: Generally healthy, though there is some risk of genetic conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)

The American Wirehair is one of the rarest breeds, with low registration numbers by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA). Though its coat may resemble that of the Devon Rex or Cornish Rex, it is genetically distinct. The wiry hair gene is an incomplete dominant trait, meaning some kittens may be born with straight hair in litters.

American Wirehair History

The American Wirehair is a unique breed with roots in the United States. While natural mutations can occur among cats globally, the wiry coat mutation has appeared exclusively in the U.S. First identified in 1966, this distinctive trait emerged in a litter of domestic shorthair kittens born in upstate New York. The sole surviving kitten, a red tabby and white male, displayed this unusual coat.

Impressed by his appearance, the kitten's owners introduced him to local breeder Joan O’Shea, who purchased him for $50. She named him Council Rock Adam of Hi-Fi and began breeding him with American Shorthairs to establish the wiry coat as a recognizable trait.

In 1978, the American Wirehair was formally recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA). The International Cat Association considers it a variant of the American Shorthair, and other associations, including the American Cat Fanciers Association, the Canadian Cat Association, and the World Cat Federation, also recognize the breed. To preserve genetic diversity, breeders may cross American Wirehairs with American Shorthairs.

American Wirehair Size

The American Wirehair is typically medium-sized, with a well-balanced and muscular build. Adult males usually weigh between 8 to 15 pounds, while females are generally 6 to 12 pounds.

American Wirehair Personality

With a personality similar to that of the American Shorthair, the American Wirehair is known for being adaptable, friendly, playful, and easygoing. Often described as clownish, this athletic cat enjoys moderate activity and playtime but is not overly demanding of attention.

Curious and sociable, the American Wirehair is smart and enjoys interactive or puzzle toys. Unlike cats that hide from visitors, this breed is outgoing and will often follow people around, interested in their activities. While some may enjoy sitting on laps, most prefer to relax nearby, either on the sofa or at the foot of the bed.

American Wirehair Health

Generally a healthy breed, the American Wirehair has a low incidence of hereditary health issues. Nonetheless, as with any breed, monitoring for potential genetic conditions is advisable.

American Wirehair Care

The American Wirehair's unique coat requires minimal grooming, as brushing or combing can damage its texture. Grooming is only recommended in the spring when the cat sheds its winter coat. Dental hygiene is essential, ideally with daily brushing or at least weekly.

Additional care includes trimming the nails every couple of weeks and gently cleaning around the eyes with a soft, damp cloth. Weekly ear checks are also beneficial; if the ears appear dirty, they can be wiped with a cotton ball dampened with a 50-50 mixture of cider vinegar and warm water. Avoid cotton swabs, which may damage the inner ear.

Maintaining a clean litter box is essential for this particular breed. American Wirehairs are best kept as indoor cats to protect them from outside dangers, such as other animals, traffic, and potential theft.

American Wirehair Coat Color and Grooming

One of the breed's defining characteristics is its resilient, crimped coat, which feels dense and springy to the touch. Even the whiskers and ear hair have a crimped texture. The coat comes in various colors and patterns.

The American Wirehair has a rounded head with prominent cheekbones, medium-sized ears with rounded tips, and large, slightly tilted round eyes. The muscular, medium-sized body is supported by strong legs and rounded paws with thick pads. The tail tapers slightly and ends in a rounded tip.

Children and Other Pets

The American Wirehair's calm yet playful temperament makes it an excellent choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs. These cats can learn tricks and enjoy interacting with children who treat them kindly. They generally get along well with dogs as long as they are gentle.

Skilled hunters by nature, American Wirehairs may coexist with smaller pets if introduced to them early. However, caution is advisable; separating pets when in doubt ensures harmony. Introducing new pets, including other cats, should be done gradually and in a controlled setting.