Distinguished from other breeds by its wiry, dense coat that is described as feeling like steel wool, the American Wirehair is considered a national treasure. This intelligent and highly adaptable breed is playful and keenly interested in her surroundings. Easy to care for, the American Wirehair has a relaxed, loving, sweet personality, making her an ideal companion for families with children 6 and older and having other pets.
The American Wirehair was discovered in 1966 from a mating of two ordinary barn cats in upstate New York. A spontaneous, incomplete dominant gene mutation occurred in a red-and-white male kitten, named Council Rock Farm Adam of Hi-Fi, which resulted in the wiry coat for which the breed is known.