Personality

The American Wirehair is characteristically a people-oriented cat, with a strong, affectionate personality and a keen interest in its surroundings. The Wirehair is always looking for a way to amuse himself, and his owner. They have been described as quiet, reserved and loving, although to their owners these cats are personable and active.

Activity Level

Wirehairs are a sturdy, playful and energetic breed. They can be shy around strangers, but usually are not reserved around people with whom they are familiar. They do not require any special exercise or activity and typically live happily in an indoor or indoor-outdoor household environment. Most breeders of these and other purebred cats recommend that they be exclusively or at least primarily indoor pets, to avoid trauma from automobiles and animal fights, contraction of infectious diseases and infestation by internal or external parasites.

Behavioral Traits

The Wirehair tends to “rule the roost” and be dominant over other household companions. They are easy keepers and devoted parents, with few if any recognized reproductive problems. They typically are somewhat independent, although they are devoted to their owners. They are not especially known to be keen hunters, nor do they have any other distinctive behavioral traits. All in all, the American Wirehair is virtually identical to the American Shorthair, except for the difference in its coat.