American Wirehair

HISTORY

The American Wirehair is a direct descendent from the American Shorthair. This breed was the result of a genetic mutation. When the litter was born to the American Shorthair parents, once kitten was subject to the mutation and the result was dense, wiry coat. The breeders then mates this cat with a littermate and the genetic trait was passed on to the kittens. Thus, the American Wirehair breed was created. It is still common practice today to breed Wirehairs with Shorthairs to produce a variety of colors and patterns, while still maintaining the distinctive wiry coat.

APPEARANCE(S)

The American Wirehair compares to that of the American Shorthair with robust bodies that are quite muscular and athletic. They have round heads and large round eyes. The ears of American Wirehairs are widely spaced on the head with rounded tips.

COLOR(S)

The colors routinely seen in wirehairs are the same as the shorthairs, as they are often bred together to produce same. There is no distinctive dominant color or pattern that has been noted, although, they are most commonly associated with the classic tabby pattern seen in red, brown, silver or orange.

COAT

A dense course “bent” coat is what is most commonly seen in this breed. The whiskers of this breed are usually bent as well.

PERSONALITY

The American Wirehair shares the same personality traits as the Shorthair; loving, affectionate and a fondness for children. This breed is quite social and easy going; this makes them an easy cat to introduce to a household as they make themselves at home quickly.

GROOMING

The wiry coat of this breed ONLY really requires a soft coming during the shedding season. If groomed to often the wiry coat will get damaged.

HELPFUL INFORMATION/SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

The American Shorthairs are known to be quite friendly to dogs, as they are eager to make friends in any new household.

BREED RELATED HEALTH CONCERNS

The following conditions are known to be seen in this breed, please look at our A to Z listing to find out detailed information.

• Obesity-Because this breed is of a robust stature, they are known to enjoy meal time more than most, and typically ask for more to eat.