The wirehair` s unusual coarse, prickly coat was caused by the spontaneous mutation of a gene.
In 1966 on a farm in Verona, New York, the American Wirehair made its debut in a litter of American Shorthairs. Its crimped, coarse coat was the result of the spontaneous mutation of a dominant gene.
The first ever Wirehair was a red and white kitten named Adam. Breeder Joan O’Shea began a selective breeding program, crossing the Wirehairs with American Shorthairs to avoid excessive inbreeding and to develop the breed.
The American Wirehair was officially recognized in the United States in 1978. Wirehairs were first imported to France in 1972. Still rather uncommon in the United States, this breed is extremely rare in Europe.
Characteristics
This solidly built, highly active, agile, and playful cat needs exercise to burn off its abundant energy. The American Wirehair is social, affectionate, and gentle, demonstrating the same excellent character as its American Shorthair relative care is simple. The coat should be brushed and combed weekly.
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cat Breeds»»American wirehair 
