The American Wirehair does not differ too markedly from its very close cousin the Shorthair. His character is generally the same and his temperament, both calm and playful, matches. In reality, the big difference is noted in a rougher coat than other cat breeds. His health is quite solid despite 2 genetic diseases and his maintenance is quite simple, even if he has 3 layers of hair.
Breed History
The American Wirehair is rarer than the American Shorthair. The latter is a real star in the United States. The American Wirehair finds its original home on a New Work State farm in the 1960s. It is the result of a genetic mutation, seen in a litter of American Shorthair. Of the 5 kittens born, only one survived, which sparked the interest of a local breeder, Joan O’Shea. The latter bought him and named him Council Rock Adam of Hi-Fi. A breeding program was then quickly put in place. He was crossed with American Shorthair cats.
In 1978, the breed was officially recognized by the American authorities.
Physical peculiarities
His body: the American Wirehair is a rather muscular cat, with a slender appearance. His body is of medium size. It is quite balanced and gives off power. His chest is quite large.
His hair: the American Wirehair has the particularity of having 3 layers of hair: outer coat, secondary and undercoat. The coat is wavy, rough and slightly curly in places. It is sometimes prickly, which distinguishes it from other cats. The fur is short, dense, well lustrous. It protects it from the weather.
Its color: many colors are accepted by the standard, with the exception of colorpoint, chocolate and lilac.
His head: it is round with cheekbones that stand out. The chin is square and fine wavy whiskers are present on its muzzle. The cheeks are strong. The nose is quite short, as is the face.
His eyes: they are widely spaced, almond-shaped. He has a sweet look.
Its ears: they are well spaced and of medium size. Their end is slightly rounded.
Its tail: it is long, thin and rounded at its end.
Feed
Like all cats, the American Wirehair should be fed according to its state of health, age, morphology and daily energy expenditure. He needs a balanced, high-quality diet. Be careful, overeating can lead to obesity. It is therefore advisable to monitor its daily rations.
It must have access to fresh, clean and regularly renewed water.
