When you see the American Wirehair for the first time, this cat will charm his or her way into your heart.
You can’t help wanting to touch the unique wiry and springy coat of fur. No other breed has this physical feature. The friendly disposition and even-tempered attitude immediately captures your attention when your meet this sweet kitty.
Finally, the American Wirehair can easily adapt to all living situations, people, and assorted pets. Essentially, they are the perfect cat… cute, fun, and loving but not needing constant attention 24/7/365.
American Wirehair Cat Facts
- While most cats have one or two layers of fur, the American Wirehair has three known as the down, awn, and guard, which are all twisted. The awn layer tips are hooked as well.
- The American Wirehair originated on an upstate New York farm in 1966. Joan O’Shea noticed the wiry coat mutation and decided to further develop the distinctive feline. After a year of refining the unique coat characteristic, the Cat Fanciers Association accepted the first registration of this breed in 1967 and championship competition later in 1978.
- The dense, wiry coat of fur on the American Wirehair is the only thing that differentiates it from the American Shorthair, as they were cross-bred in early Wirehair development.
- It is reported by American Wirehair owners that females of the breed are typically more active and males, on the other hand, tend to have a more docile attitude.
- If you live in an area where insects in your home are a problem, the American Wirehair can be a convenient form of pest control. Due to the American Shorthair cross-breeding, this cat is a prolific hunter of rats, mice, and all types of insects.
- Brushing a cat’s fur is typically needed to remove dead hair but when it comes to the American Wirehair, less is better. Brushing their coat can actually cause damage and in turn, they only require minimal grooming every once in a while however, regular bathing with a vet-approved shampoo is necessary since the coat can become oily if neglected.
Physical Features
- Lifespan: 12 to 16 years but can live longer with a healthy lifestyle.
- Weight: Females are typically 8-12 lbs and males run larger from 12 to 15 lbs.
- Body Type: Medium in size with a stocky, muscular build.
- Eye Color: blue, green, gold, hazel, copper
- Coat Color: This thick, springy coat is available in most colors and patterns.
- Shedding: Minimal with a heavy period in Spring when losing their Winter coat.
Personality Traits
- Activity Level: It basically varies from cat to cat however, the general consensus among American Wirehair owners is these felines can be energetic one moment and calm the next. Like most cats, it depends how they feel and their mood.
- Breed Intellect: The American Wirehair is both curious and playful with the patience to assess perplexing situations. Learning new tricks comes easy for this cat so, give them a treat ball or some other interactive toy and watch them quickly figure it out.
- Temperament: Easygoing and laid-back would be an appropriate description of the American Wirehair. With its ability to adapt to any situation as well as get along with most people and pets, this tolerant feline is never too clingy or overly aloof.
- Attention Needs: While the American Wirehair enjoys its human interaction, this cat is just as comfortable spending time alone amusing itself or resting quietly during the day. Simply make sure it has play toys, a cat tree to climb, and a windowsill view of the birds. You could also give it the ultimate prize to satisfy their hunting instinct… a catnip mouse.
- Caring Nature: There are varying opinions whether the American Wirehair is a lap cat or even likes being held. It probably depends on the owner and their preferences. This breed is intelligent and surely it can learn to appreciate the warmth of a human lap or embrace. Try petting or scratching to get the purr machine going. No matter what, this sweet kitty will definitely form a strong bond with each and every family member.
- Vocal Tendency: The American Wirehair is ordinarily a quiet cat with the exception of occasional soft meows at meal time. They are however, exuberant purr babies though. Kittens will be more expressive with their mother of course, especially just after birth.
- Kids Compatible: This breed gets along very well with those children who know how to treat a cat. In fact, the American Wirehair makes a great playmate. Infants or toddlers who have yet to learn how to handle a cat will need to be supervised until they know.
- Tolerates Pets: As long as the other cat or dog is not a nuisance or bully, everything should be just fine in time. Be sure to introduce a new kitty gradually to the other pets.
- Stranger-Friendly: Being a very social cat, the American Wirehair craves attention from everyone so, invite family members, friends or guests over whenever you feel the need.
Health and Well-Being
Ideal Living Situation
Whether you have a large family or you’re single living alone, the American Wirehair will fit your lifestyle because of its amazing adaptability and breed characteristics.
This unique cat can most assuredly be happy in every environment from a spacious home to a small apartment as long as it feels loved and is properly cared for.
Possible Health Problems
The American Wirehair is known to be generally healthy but because the breed has been crossed with the American Shorthair, it may have the chance of developing Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. This hereditary genetic disorder causes a thickening of the heart wall.
Fortunately, veterinarians have medicines and treatments that will help reverse this affliction within six months as long as it’s caught early enough.
Annual Vaccinations
There are four core vaccines and one non-core option available for all cats.
The first essential vaccine would be Rabies which is a fatal disease if exposed to it.
The second inoculation (FVRCP) is a combination of the remaining three core vaccines in one. This covers Feline Herpesvirus 1 or FHV-1 which is an upper respiratory infection, Feline Calicivirus or FCV which attacks the upper respiratory tract, and the final is Feline Panleukopenia Virus or FPV (also known as Feline Distemper) which is life threatening and extremely dangerous for young cats and kittens.
You can get the optional non-core vaccine Feline Leukemia Virus or FeLV. This is considered a core vaccine for every kitten. Make an appointment with your local vet to discuss and schedule all these vaccinations.
Grooming Routine
When caring for cats, there are four specific areas which need regular attention.
Weekly brushing is the minimum required to keep their fur healthy and shiny. This also helps distribute natural body oils, remove dead hair, and eliminate matted fur.
When the nails are getting a little too sharp and ripping furniture or carpet, it’s time to trim them. Be sure not to trim off too much of each nail as this can cause pain.
Cats are prone to periodontal disease and gingivitus so brushing their teeth with veterinarian-approved toothpaste once or twice a week should suffice. You can also give them dental treats to clean their teeth in between brushing.
Finally, you’ll want to address the ears. While cats have a built-in mechanism for cleansing their inner ear canals, the visible portion of their ears should occasionally be very gently swabbed to remove foreign matter.
Please consult a veterinarian for the proper procedures when grooming your cat.
Feeding Advice
Cats are known as obligate carnivores or strict meat eaters. Their diets should primarily consist of high protein and a few fats.
While carbohydrates are not usually a part of feline nutrition, scientists have concluded they are able to be used for energy in small amounts. On the other hand, if a cat is continuously fed too many carbs, diabetes can actually develop later in their life.
When choosing a wet or dry food, you need to read the caloric information labels to ensure your cat is being fed the appropriate nutrient levels.
Normally, wet foods should contain around 70% to 80% moisture as cats from past feral generations obtained most of their liquids from the animals they killed and ate.
Proteins are ideal when they’re between 10% and 20% in grain-free wet food. Seafood varieties are typically the highest in protein.
Two of the best dry food formulas on the market would be Natural Balance Limited Ingredients Diet with High Protein and Orijen Biologically Appropriate Cat Food. These specially made dry food products include healthy amounts of prepared raw meats, some needed fats, and minimal carbohydrates.
Exercise Tips
You should plan to play with your cat at least 15 minutes everyday, although, more is encouraged with certain active breeds.
Feather toys and laser pointers are a great choice to keep them moving. This helps relieve their boredom and reduces the chance for depression as well.
For a really cheap play session, simply buy a ball of string. Cut off a ten foot section at a time and drag it around the house behind you. Your kitties will love attacking the end of the string! Big fun for a small price.
Catnip is another way to offer an edible distraction in their lives. Don’t worry, the effects typically wear off in about 15 minutes or so.
One of the best items you can acquire for exercise would be a cat tree or cat condo. This is basically a jungle gym for cats which provides a place for climbing, relaxing, and sharpening their claws instead of using your furniture.
There are a couple other alternatives including an exercise wheel, which can be somewhat expensive, and a simple body harness with a leash for outdoor walks. Your cat may or may not like this option but, you can give it a try.
American Wirehair Cat Price
The American Wirehair price can run from $600 to $1200 depending on several factors.
Kittens that are not purebred or possibly unhealthy will obviously cost less.
If you want show quality standards from a reputable breeder, be prepared to pay between $1000 and $1200.
You could adopt an American Wirehair for fees between $30 and $175 however, they will more than likely be mixed breeds.
Registered American Wirehair Breeders
Cacao Cattery – Texas
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