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THE LABRADOODLE
Known for their curly fur and agreeable disposition, the Labradoodle is a cute, fun-loving and dedicated dog. It was originally bred to be a guide dog, so it always enjoys human company and always seeks to provide companionship. The Labradoodle is highly intelligent and sociable and makes a lively life companion or a family dog. Thanks to its minimal coat shedding, the Labradoodle is ideal for people with allergies.
Brief History
The Labradoodle was bred to offer day-to-day support by the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. It is a cross of the Standard Poodle and the Labrador Retriever. Thanks to its calm and people-loving heritage, this dog is quite comfortable among people and other pets as well. Its origin is just as interesting as the dog itself. The very first Labradoodle was bred in 1989 for a visually-challenged woman who lived in Hawaii. Interestingly, her husband was allergic to fur, therefore her guide dog had to be hypoallergenic. The Labradoodle was born and retained the fun-loving nature of the Labrador and the intelligence of the Poodle —making it well-balanced and loving.
Physical Features
The Labradoodle can have a variety of physical features that largely depend on its genetic heritage and parentage. The Poodle and Labrador DNA in each Labradoodle’s body play a big role in determining the overall appearance of the dog. Commonly, this dog breed emerges in coat colors such as chocolate, blonde, apricot, black and charcoal.
Seeing as this dog breed is a result of breeding with a Standard size Poodle, it has a medium sized body. Its coat of fur can be soft and wavy or curly and taut. Their ears are droopy and widely considered to be one of the most attractive features of the dog.
Average Height:
21-24 inches
Average Weight:
50-65 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-14 years
Temperament
The Labradoodle is a cool, calm and sociable dog. This is due to its heritage. It is bred from two dogs that are well known for having a cool disposition. The Poodle is intelligent and the Labrador is a social, family-oriented dog. This dog breed is cat-friendly and interacts with felines and other dogs comfortably.
Special Needs
Seeing as it is a sociable dog, the Labradoodle can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods of time.
Possible Health Concerns
Labradoodles are generally healthy dogs, however they can suffer from certain health issues. Some of these issues are eye diseases such as cataracts and progressive Retinal Atrophy, Hip dysplasia and Addison’s disease.
Labradoodle puppy
Exercise
The Labradoodle is a big dog that loves to play and have fun. This dog needs to get between 30 and 60 minutes of exercise every day. For best results, your Labradoodle should exercise by running around in a fenced yard or dog park. Here, they can thoroughly work out their lateral muscles and have a great time. This dog makes a great jogging partner as well. Labradoodles also enjoy swimming.
Nutrition
The Labradoodle is an active dog and therefore requires a diet that can support its vibrant lifestyle. You should always strive to implement a balanced diet for your Labradoodle as it can do exceptionally well with 1 to 2.5 cups of dry food served twice every day. This is best done in the morning and in the evening after their exercise sessions. By feeding your Labradoodle twice in a day, you are able to prevent cases of gastric tension.
Grooming
The Labradoodle needs some grooming conducted so as to keep their coats in great condition. While it does not shed much, the Labradoodle still requires regular care for its coat. You should brush through its fur at least twice a day. This prevents matting and bunching up of the hair.
While grooming, you should remember to cut the hair inside the ear. Also, carefully shave the fur that is near the ear canal and under the ear too. Any hair around the eyes should be trimmed as well. This needs to be done so as to prevent the fur from obstructing your Labradoodle’s vision. Proceed to trim the hair around his pads. The nails should be trimmed as well. While bathing your Labradoodle, make sure to use a gentle shampoo. The baths should be infrequent to preserve the natural oils in their hair furthermore, your Labradoodle is best left to air-dry.
The Labradoodle is a loving, intelligent and addition to any family. The dog does not require much maintenance and is generally a strong, healthy dog. The Labradoodle lives for a long time.
THE WEIMARANER
The Weimaraner originated in Germany during the early 1800s. They were bred by German aristocrats, and used for hunting large game.
Brief History
It is believed that the Bloodhound was bred with several German and French hunting dogs resulting in the Weimar Pointer or Weimaraner. By the 1950s, the Weimaraner was extremely popular as a companion and hunting dog. The Weimaraner was first used to hunt bears, wolves and mountain lions. As the wildlife population decreased, this breed then was used as an all-purpose-hunter.
Physical Features
The Weimaraner is a medium-sized dog with a large, lean and muscular body. They have long, broad heads, light-amber; gray, or blue-gray eyes and high-set drop ears with a slight fold. This breed also has a grey nose. Their tails are docked, and the Weimaraner’s plush coat is short and sleek. This breed is elegant, athletically built, and has aristocratic features. The Weimaraner is intelligent and kind.
Average Height:
23-27 inches
Average Weight:
55-85 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12-15 years
Temperament
The Weimaraner is intelligent, friendly and athletic. This fun-loving dog breed needs a job, and plenty of regular exercise. The Weimaraner is sensitive and enjoys being around people, family, other dogs and animals. Because this breed is so active, they are prone to scrapes and accidents. The Weimaraner does well with positive puppy training classes, and plenty of socialization. This breed also gets on well with children, and enjoys family outings, trips to the beach and playing Frisbee. The Weimaraner always wants to be with its pet parent, and will be your shadow.
Special Needs
This breed needs socialization, and plenty of exercise. This is a high-maintenance dog breed that has to have consistent runs, walks and benefits from partaking in a few canine sport activities. The elegant and sporty Weimaraner does well with plenty of off-leash exercise. This breed loves to chew things, and pet parents need to watch out for gastric torsion.
Possible Health Concerns
The Weimaraner is an active dog breed that may be susceptible to the following:
Gastric Torsion: Also known as bloat, gastric torsion is a life- threatening emergency. The stomach distended with gas and fluid, and then twists, trapping the gas and fluid in the dog’s stomach. Early symptoms are pacing, gagging, excess saliva, and attempts at vomiting. The stomach will appear distended, and the dog will not be able to vomit. You will need to take the dog immediately to the emergency veterinarian. This cannot wait for a few hours since your dog may not survive.
Hip Dysplasia: This is an abnormal development of the hip joint in large dog breeds like the Weimaraner. It is generally characterized by a loose joint, and then degenerative joint disease. Dogs should be fed a high-quality diet that is geared towards their life stage. Puppies should only be fed high-quality puppy dog food. Excessive growth, types of exercise, nutritional factors, and hereditary factors all come in to play with hip dysplasia. Consult with your veterinarian for expert advice.
Cataracts occurs when the lens becomes cloudy, then blocks the light from reaching the retina. This causes mild or partial blindness. These are often inherited in certain dog breeds like the Weimaraner. Dogs with vision loss appear to use more caution when moving, and also tend to stay closer to their pet parents.
Dermoid Cysts are birth defects that may occur in certain dog breeds like the Weimaraner. These are skin pockets into which pollen, dander, oil, hair, and other bits of debris accumulate. These are found on a dog’s backbone. They can be surgically removed.
Exercise
The Weimaraner is an active breed that benefits from regular exercise and long runs. This is a working dog that needs to have a job. Active pet parents are a must for this wonderfully athletic dog breed.
Nutrition
Good high-quality nutrition is key to a healthy Weimaraner. Always opt for the very best high-quality dog food that you can afford, and add in supplements, steamed veggies and safe fruits. Ask your veterinarian about the veggies and fruits that are safe to feed.
Grooming
The Weimaraner almost self-cleans, and looks immaculate most of the time. Although this breed has a short coat, daily grooming is always recommended along with regular bathing, brushing teeth, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Visits to the veterinarian are recommended for teeth cleaning twice yearly. Because this breed has drop ears, it’s very important to keep themclean to prevent ear infections caused from trapped moisture.
If you’re active, and have lots of time to spend with this sensitive and intelligent dog breed, the Weimaraner is a good dog to adopt. This breed is easy to groom, keeps clean, and is friendly with everyone — children included. Because the Weimaraner is fun-loving and energetic, prospective pet parents need to understand that this breed does best with plenty of outdoor activities.
THE TURKISH VAN CAT
turkish van cat
The Turkish Van is a beautiful, friendly cat that thrives with other pets and family members. While they make amazing companions, Vans often prefer to snuggle next to their owners on the couch or share their bed rather than snooze on a lap. Prepare for endless antics and tons of fun.
Brief History
The Turkish Van has been around for centuries — legend has it that they swam to shore from Noah’s Ark — and can trace their origin back to cold and mountainous region of Lake Van in Turkey. The rugged environmental conditions played a key role in the breed’s evolution.
Vans are known for their distinctive forehead spots and coloring at the base of their tails.
Their distinctive coloring and bubbly personality inspired Turkey’s invaders to take the cat along with them to their home countries as souvenirs. However, it wasn’t until 1970 that the first Turkish Van cats were brought to the United States of America and the Cat Fanciers Association registered them as an official breed in 1985. Today, the Turkish Van is considered a national Turkish treasure. It’s breeding and preservation is supervised by the Ankara Zoo and the Turkish College of Agriculture.
Physical Features
The Turkish Van is distinctive thanks to their famous, beautiful coat. Their fur is mostly white, extending from the nose to hindquarters just before the base of the tail. From here, their coloring turns into circles that are dark orange, red or auburn. Their ears and sides of the head are also colored in these shades with an orange, brown or auburn spot placed right between the shoulder blades. It emerges distinctly and is often referred to as “God’s thumbprint.”
Their coats have long, soft hairs that are often compared to cashmere. These cats love to swim and their coats are fully water resistant. The Turkish Van has golden, blue, grey, silver or brown eyes with a pink nose and muscular body. Their paws can either be pink or brown. These unique attributes make the Turkish Van a prime show cat.
Average Height:
7 to 13 inches
Average Weight:
8 to 19 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12 to 17 years
Temperament
The Turkish Van is a very independent adaptive and intelligent cat. They’re extremely social and do well with other pets and family members. However, while they thrive with company, Vans do not like being held or restricted in any way. They’re also known for being very inquisitive — be prepared to be followed from room to room! Vans are also very vocal cats and will often engage their owners in conversation just to feel a part of the goings on. Also be prepared for LOTS of climbing. Vans love scouting the highest point in any room and setting up there for a while. You’ll also never have to wonder how your Van’s feeling — their noses will tell you! When your Van’s happy, their nose will turn pink. When it turns red, they’re feeling stressed or upset. When it turns crimson, be prepared, they’re angry and will attack.
turkish van cat
Special Needs
The Turkish Van is not very good at traveling as they are prone to peeing, pooping or vomiting due to car sickness. The Turkish Van loves playing with water. This can lead to them going to places where they shouldn’t. Make sure you’re supervising anytime open water is available.
The Turkish Van also does not like being held and particularly dislikes being restrained.
Possible Health Concerns
The Turkish Van is quite a healthy cat — there aren’t many health issues that affect this breed. Despite this, the Turkish Van can suffer from a condition that is known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. This is an inherited genetic condition that require medical attention.
Exercise
Exercise comes naturally to Turkish Vans because they are always on the move. Vans love playing games, solving puzzles and performing tricks. They are also an avid climbers. This cat should be allowed to perform these activities as they play a big role in her daily exercise routine.
Nutrition
This cat is up early in the morning and retires late in the evening. This means that they’re quite active for most of the day. To fulfill their energy requirements, the Turkish Van requires a diet that is rich in carbohydrates. They deliver the energy which they need on a daily basis. Cool, clean water should always be provided to this cat, but beware, they may also use it as an opportunity for water play!
Grooming
turkish van cat
The Turkish Van has a beautiful, soft coat with long hairs. As a result, they require ample grooming to stay neat and clean. Since they do not have an undercoat, hair matting isn’t usually an issue. The Turkish Van does not shed much except in Spring and Fall seasons when the old coat is falling out and a new one growing in. Their coat is water-resistant and therefore eliminates the necessity of baths.
Her teeth should be brushed two-to-three times a week to prevent the emergence of periodontal disease. Claws should also be trimmed every few weeks. The corners of your Van’s eyes may emit a discharge and should be wiped away as soon as it emerges. As you do so, ensure that you utilize a different corner of the clean cloth for each eye. This prevents the spread of disease or infection from one eye to the other. Ears should also be cleaned weekly.
The Turkish Van is both beautiful and fascinating breed. They’re independent and affectionate at the same time. This is a companion that will play with you all day and sneak into your bed at night.
THE JAPANESE CHIN
The Japanese Chin dog breed
The Japanese Chin, also known as the Japanese Spaniel, is aptly named after its country of possible origin. It is part of the UKC, companion Group, and the AKC, Toy Group. Despite its name, some believe the Japanese Chin actually came from China as a gift from a Chinese emperor. Historically, the breed was very popular with the Japanese nobility.
Brief History
The Japanese Chin’s origin is of question. Some believe this breed came from Korea, while others say that it originated from China. There were Buddhist monks, Chinese emperors, as well as European merchants that were credited for bringing the Japanese Chin to Japan, approximately 500 to 1000 years ago. The Japanese nobles then improved on this small breed. In 1854 the Chin was introduced to the west when Japan opened for trade after 200 years of isolation.
Physical Features
The Japanese Chin is a small, square-shaped and well-balanced dog breed with a large, round head. Japanese Chins have large, warm brown eyes that are often emotive. It has a short, broad, muzzle with a black nose, open nostrils and small v-shaped drop ears. This breed looks aristocratic and has a very unique expression. Its famous tail is plumed and carried over the back. They tend to have very curious and alert facial expressions. Their coats are thick, single, and silky with a heavily coated rump area. The coat color typically ranges from black and white, to black and white with tan characteristics, or red and white. Occasionally they can have tan or red spots over the eye area, inside ears, and on their cheeks.
Average Height:
8-11 inches
Average Weight:
4-11 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-12 years
Temperament
The Japanese Chin has a good memory. This very intelligent dog breed is sensitive and mild-mannered. They typically get along with everyone — dogs, animals and children. They can be initially shy with strangers, but affectionate with immediate family and once they get to know a new person. Above all, the Japanese Chin enjoys being pampered. This breed does not do well if isolated from family during the holidays. The Chin is easy to train, though has bursts of stubbornness at times. The Chin needs to start socialization during the first four weeks of life and positive dog training early on to overcome stubborn habits. Male Chins may have some housebreaking issues, but these are resolved easily with consistency and regular positive training.
Special Needs
The Japanese Chin is a low maintenance dog. That said, the long silky coat needs plenty of care. The Chin does well with all dogs, children, and people. This breed can only benefit from positive dog training classes to help prevent stubbornness. They’re usually independent, loyal and devoted to family. The Chin has some cat-like qualities and may be shy and reserved. This is a sensitive dog breed.
Positive training for the Chin needs to be consistent, yet one needs to take into consideration the sensitivity and intelligence of this breed and not break their spirit with unnecessary harsh reprimands. Dog training needs to mold the needs of this dog breed in a positive way so as not to break his quirkiness. Attentive pet parents are usually recommended. Socialization, as with all dog breeds should start during the first four weeks.
One quirk: Japanese Chins tend to be afraid of thunderstorms. Vets usually recommend “relax and recover shirts” to provide therapeutic pressure to help dogs feel secure and calm during thunderstorms or times of stress. Use of calming essential oils with the use of Calm Paws Calming Disks work well. Thundershirts, another anxiety wrap, also provides gentle, constant pressure to help dogs deal with stress during travel, separation anxiety, storm phobia and other every day stresses that your Chin may have to deal with.
Possible Health Concerns
Luxating Patella: The Japanese Chin may be predisposed to this condition. This occurs when the patella slips out of the trochlear groove and causes lameness. The kneecap ends up being displaced towards the midline of the dog’s body.
GM2 Gangliosidosis: This is a recessive hereditary diseae. This disease was also called Tay Sachs disease or Sandhoff’s disease. It involves lysosomal storage, and is fatal. Symptoms include loss of coordination, head shaking, mental dullness and weakness.
Cardiac Diseases. Inherited cardiac diseases in the Chins like subaortic stenosis and cardiomyopathies are congenital (present at birth). Some symptoms may include heart murmurs resulting in exercise intolerance, and possible congestive heart failure. Consult with your veterinarian for advice.
Epilepsy results in seizures that can be caused by numerous conditions. Some of these include low blood sugar, brain tumor, heat stroke, nutritional deficiencies, poisons or toxins, and distemper. Inherited epilepsy in the Chin has been showing up a lot in this gene pool. Environmental hazards are also to blame.
Cataracts: This is a condition where the lens of the eye progressively loses transparency. This often results in blindness.
The Japanese Chin dog
Exercise
The Japanese Chin needs regular exercise and lots of fun play time. This dog breed has bursts of energy and does well with frequent short walks, trips to the dog park and playing ball. The more regular the exercise, the better their overall disposition will be. This is not a dog to leave alone all day. The Chin will get agitated and lonely. Plenty of socialization is needed during puppyhood so that this dog breed has no problems with other dogs later on.
Nutrition
A high-quality dog food for the appropriate life stage is recommended for the Chin. Pet parents should never underestimate the importance of a well-balanced diet for this small and spirited breed. Assess your dog’s activity level, age, breed, and any medical conditions that they may be prone to. Ask your veterinarian to help you.
The Japanese Chin
Grooming
The Japanese Chin has a very long and silky coat. This breed needs to be brushed every day to remove loose hair and dirt. This also helps to prevent matts and tangles which can be worked through with a slicker brush or metal comb. Using natural spritzes and conditioners will make grooming easier.
Teeth need to be brushed daily with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste. Ears need to be cleaned regularly and checked for sensitivity. Trim nails as needed. Your Japanese Chin will need to have a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Consult with your veterinarian for advice. If you’re using a professional groomer, be sure to check references. Chins are a small dog breed that need to be treated gently and enjoy lots of positive reinforcements like healthy dog treats. These can be used to reward your Chin when he behaves during a nail trim.
This dog breed enjoys the comforting scent of people, most especially family, including children. This mild-mannered and sensitive dog breed needs time to adjust to new surroundings.
Preparing Your Pets for Winter
Winter storm Cato is heading up the east coast, and is expected to bring the first snow fall of the season to many cities. These conditions give us pause to consider the preparation for and well-being of our pets during these times of extreme weather. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. They should be kept inside. Long-haired and thick-coated dogs are more tolerant of cold weather, but no pet should be left outside for long periods of time in below freezing weather.
SUMMER SAFETY FOR PETS
Summer has arrived, although I am aware that some of you in many parts of the United States went directly from winter to summer without the slow transition of spring. Nevertheless, hot weather is upon us and we should all be aware that there are some definite dos and don’ts that should be observed in the summer all across the country regarding our pets.
THE POODLE
One of the world’s most popular dogs, the Poodle enjoys the limelight. Experts describe the Poodle as clever, elegant, and proud. Tucked behind the impressive hairdos, fancy ribbons, and regal attitude is an affectionate friend and winner among dogs.
Brief History
The Poodle has a rich history that dates back to the first century. No one is certain of its origin. Its earliest ancestors were curly-coated dogs from central Asia. The curly-coated type extended into Hungary, France, and Russia, and was known as the Barbet. In France, the Poodle is believed to be a crossbreed of the Barbet and a Hungarian water dog. It is referred to as the “chien canard” or “caniche”, for its duck hunting prowess. But the dog is so versatile that it found work as a guide dog, military dog, and a circus performer. So adored was the poodle that it became enshrined as the national breed of France.
But the German strain is the type that most influenced the dog we see today. In Germany, it is known as “Pudelhund”. The name is a combination phrase, “Pudel” meaning, “to splash about”, and “hunt”, or “hound”.
European history has seen Poodle depictions in painting and drawings dating back to the 15th century. In Spain, this breed became extremely popular during the 18th century through artists such as Francisco Goya.
The Poodle comes in 3 sizes: Toy, Miniature and Standard. The Standard poodle holds the claim to being the original version, with the other two varieties bred down for the ease of household companionship. In the late 19th century, fanciers began exhibiting the poodle in the show ring. Its iconic haircut was thought to have started as a hunting clip, with hair left longer to protect its joints from the cold. But the accentuated height and fluff were probably further exaggerated for the circus performers.
Physical Features
The Poodle is square, standing as tall as his body is long. He has a long nose, a full muzzle, dark eyes, and long, pendulous ears. The tail is usually cropped. A true sporting dog, his body is muscular and athletic. His coat is his glory; it comes in many colors including bi-color. The hair is thick and notoriously curly, although groomers will blow it straight and hand-scissor it for the legendary haircut.
The registry recognizes three sizes.
Average Height:
Toy: Under 10 inches
Miniature: 10-15 inches
Standard: Over 15 inches
Average Weight:
Toy: 5-7 pounds
Miniature: 10-20 pounds
Standard: 45-70 pounds
Life Expectancy:
10-15 years
Temperament
The Poodle is among the smartest of all dogs. This breed is a brilliant student and adept at nearly any kind of task. His personality is one of fun and happy energy, filled with humor and bounce.
Special Needs
Being a curly-coated dog, the Poodle will need regular grooming. The dog can be prone to ear infections unless the hair is pulled from the inner ear.
Possible Health Concerns
Poodles can be fragile, especially the toy variety. Some of the ailments that plague the breed are:
Heart disease
Cushing’s disease
Epilepsy
Addison’s disease
Gastric dilation-volvulus/bloat
Hip dysplasia
Eye disorders
Sebaceous adenitis
Exercise
Depending on the size of the dog, exercise needs will vary. But all poodles need a fair amount of aerobic workout on a regular basis.
Nutrition
Poodles thrive on a balanced diet of proteins, carbohydrates, and fat. Carbohydrates provide them with the energy needed to stay active while proteins and fat support their lean muscle health, build and repair their immune system as well as the central nervous system. Proteins should make up a huge part of their diet since they make their coats and skins glow.
Grooming
The Poodle’s grooming needs are best addressed by a professional, although some owners like to let their dog grow out curly and woolly. To that end, be sure to have a veterinarian inspect the ears, cut the toenails, and drain the anal glands regularly.
Here are some more poodle resources:
Poodle Lovers Post: History of the Poodle
AKC.org: Dog Breeds: Poodle
THE AMERICAN CURL CAT
The American Curl is a sweet cat that has an interesting appearance and jovial attitude. This cat is active and will gladly participate in collective activities. Due to their dedication to their owners, the American Curl is a great therapy cat.
Brief History
The American Curl has a colorful history. Their origin is traced back to a single stray kitten that walked into the Lakewood California home of Joe and Grace Ruga in the early 1980s. She had long black fur and little ears that curled backwards. The Rugas noticed that the cat was very calm and timid.
She delivered 4 kittens soon afterwards from an unknown father. Two of the kittens had the same curled ears. Neighbors took note and the Rugas took their cat and her kittens to cat shows in the state. This led to widespread interest in the cat and the American Curl was born. A geneticist indicated that the curled ears were caused by a dominant gene.
In 1983, cat fanciers began to selectively breed the American Curl. In 1986, the new breed was registered by the Cat Fanciers Association. The International Cat Association recognized the breed in 1987. All American Curl cats in the world are descended from the first cat.
Physical Features
The most noticeable feature of the American Curl is their curled ears. While they are born with straight ears, they curl in the first 2 to 10 days after they are born. By the time a kitten is 4 months old, the ears will have permanently curled. They maintain this shape for the rest of their lives. Interestingly, American Curls can move their ears back and forth. When they are alert, the ears face forward. At other times, they face sideways.
The American Curl has a sweet appearance and a stocky, muscular body. Their coats are silky and long. They can have a variety of colors such as brown, white, black, grey and roan. They can also have patterns. Examples of these are tortoiseshell, tiger stripes, patches and smoky patterns.
Average Height:
8 to 12 inches
Average Weight:
5 to 10 pounds
Life Expectancy:
12 to 16 years
Temperament
The American Curl is a sweet cat. They readily greets you with a cheek rub and also takes well to guests and will extend a welcome to them too. They enjoy the company of children and is very sweet towards them. The American Curl is amicable and can live comfortably with dogs that are friendly towards cats. This cat is curious and intelligent and will follow you around the home so as to see what you are up to. The American Curl will also help out whenever required. They are known for being able to jump extremely long distances. As such, they are sometimes described to be flying. This causes the breed to be fondly known as Peter Pan.
Seeing as she is very intelligent, the American Curl can open doorknobs and drawers. After a day of high activity, the American Curl will relax into your lap for a nap.
Special Needs
The American Curl is an active cat that requires specialized training so as to harness its energy in the right way. The American Curl can be taught how to walk on a leash. They can also be taught how to fetch or play catch. Since they like spending time outdoors climbing around, extra care should be taken to ensure they do not get injured or lose their way.
Possible Health Concerns
If maintained properly, the American Curl is a healthy cat breed. They are stronger than most other cat breeds and are not susceptible to many illness or adverse conditions. The only real problem they are prone to is wax buildup in their narrow ear canals. Consult with your vet for treatment.
Exercise
The American Curls require ample exercise perhaps two sessions of exercise each lasting 30 minutes. The cat is also versatile and can handle exercise activities of various types. They enjoy playing with children and active session of exercise by play is ideal for the cat. They can also go on a jog around the block with you. You can train the American Curl to walk on a leash.
Nutrition
American Curls expend a lot of energy on a daily basis so their food should promote energy retention and growth. It should have equal portions of protein and carbohydrates. A bowl of cool, clean water is also an important part of their daily nutrition. American Curl cats are not fussy eaters and will consume wet or dry food with equal enthusiasm.
Grooming
A notable feature of the American Curl is their beautiful, long coats which should be brushed once every week. This is so as to eliminate any dead hair and prevent matting. Their teeth and nails should also be clipped regularly.
The American Curl can fit comfortably in apartments as well as larger houses. They are a loving, affectionate breed and will gladly rub against you or your guests. They are a
