|
The Scratching Post
American Wirehair 
The American Wirehair is a medium to large breed. What distinguishes the American Wirehair from all other
breeds is the coarse and dense coat which is hard to the touch. The head has prominent cheekbones and a
well-developed muzzle chin. The nose shows a gentle concave curve and the muzzle is well developed.
The ears are slightly rounded at the tips. The eyes are large, round, bright and clear. The paws are firm,
full and rounded with heavy pads. An incorrect coat, a kinked or abnormal tail or long or fluffy fur are grounds
for disqualification.
|
|
Temperament
|
The American Wirehair is friendly, gentle and loving. It becomes attached to all members of the family if treated well. This playful cat has a soft voice and is a good mouser.
|
|
Weight
|
Male 8-15 lbs. ; Female 6-12 lbs.
|
|
Health Problems
|
They are strong, healthy cats with no special health problems. They are prone to becoming overweight, so
you should be careful not to over feed them.
|
|
Living Conditions
|
Although they enjoy time outside, they can live easily indoors or outdoors.
|
|
Exercise
|
They should be provided with toys and time to play with their owner.
They should also have time outside to exercise.
|
|
Life Expectancy
|
Up to 15 years
|
|
Grooming
|
Wirehairs require minimal grooming. They should be brushed and combed once a week.
Their wiry coat can be damaged easily, so care should be taken to not damage it.
|
|
Origin
|
A spontaneous mutation occurred in a litter in upstate New York in 1966. Two ordinary cats came together which resulted in
a kitten unlike its parents or littermates. This kitten was a wirehair among normal coated littermates.
Local "cat lady" and breeder Joan O?Shea obtained the wiry kitten, aptly named Council Rock Farm Adam of Hi-Fi,
and one of his female littermates and because of her careful breeding practices, all American Wirehairs can be traced back to Adam.
|