Hairless Cats: Breeds, Care Tips, FAQs, and More
If fur and fluff aren’t your things then take a look at these rare, beautiful, and beautiful hairless cats. The cats are prized for their bearing and absence these cats don’t shed hair and are sought-after pets among those who want an animal that’s unique, affectionate, and sweet.
While the Sphynx is probably the most well-known of hairless cats, the “bald cats” come in various sizes and shapes. Alongside descriptions of the hairless breeds of cats and descriptions, we’ll also provide essential care tips and address some frequently asked questions.
Naked cats have some limitations, including specific grooming requirements as well as sun care, so make sure you study the details before purchasing or adopting one.
7 of the Best Hairless Cat Breeds
1 | Bambino
A cross between the Sphynx and a Munchkin (a genetically dwarfed breed of cat) Bambino’s name is fitting given its diminutive dimension (Bambino is Italian meaning “baby”). Physically, it is unique due to the short legs of the Munchkin with big, round eyes, and big ears The Bambino is a very affectionate and friendly cat with pets and kids and is very vocal.
The breed snapshot:
- Weight and size average 7-8 inches 7 to 9 pounds
- Life expectancy for the average person: 12 years
- Specifications: Hairless or light fuzz
2 | Donskoy
Those eyes! The rare Russian hairless breed is known under various names like Russian Donskoy, Russian Hairless, Don Sphynx, and Don Hairless. Medium-sized, loyal loving fun, playful, and clever are just some of the reasons why this is an extremely popular breed.
Fun fact: unlike sphynx, which suffers from hairlessness due to a recessive genetic mutation, Donskoy gets its hairlessness due to a dominant gene.
A snapshot of the breed:
- Weight and size: 8-12 inches 7 to 15 lbs
- Life expectancy for the average person: 12 years
- Characteristics: Hairless, occasionally develops light fuzz during winter.
3 | Elf
It is believed that the Elf is an average-sized, naked breed of cat that’s relatively new, and thus extremely uncommon. It’s a cross between the Sphynx–from which it develops its baldness American Curl, which is the breed that has unique curly ears.
It’s not totally hairless as the Sphynx however, it has an extremely fine (sometimes difficult to spot) coat that looks like peach fuzz. Elfs are very loved and affectionate having moderate amounts of energy and a calm temperament.
A snapshot of the breed:
- Size and weight 8-10 inches, 10 – 15 pounds
- Life expectancy for the average person: 8-14 years
- Characteristics: Hairless, available in a variety of designs and colors
4 | Lykoi
Also known as “werewolf cats,” some Lykoi (means “wolves” in Greek) are furry, while other types aren’t. Furry breeds have an appearance that resembles that of a Wolf, whereas hairless breeds do not have hair on their ears and faces, as well as on their feet and legs. In certain instances, it is possible that this breed loses the majority of the hair it has as it grows from the age of a kitten until adulthood. There is a theory that hair loss (or partial hair loss) can be caused by an inherited mutation.
The breed snapshot:
- Weight and size between 8 and 10 inches and 4 to 7 pounds
- Average life expectancy: 13-15 years
- Specifications: Small, could be hairless, or possess a coat
5 | Peterbald
A cross of the Donskoy and oriental shorthair felines The Peterbald isn’t always hairless. Sometimes, it is born with an ordinary fur coat or it may have an extremely soft, fine velvet-like coat. Sometimes, the cats born with this kind of coat shed it as they age. Whatever the case, it is an extended body, wide ears, and an oblong head shape and is renowned for its loyalty, friendliness, and smartness.
A snapshot of the breed:
- The average size, weight, and height are between 8 and 10 inches 7 to 14 pounds
- Life expectancy for the average person: 12-15 years
- Specifications: Small, could be hairless, or possess a coat
6 | Sphynx
Perhaps the most well-known of the naked cat breeds The Sphynx is an exquisite small to medium cat with a stunning appearance.
The theory is that hair loss results from a genetic mutation. It’s all well and good, but what you’ll notice is the cat’s incredibly large, perky ears, and impressively wide eyes, as well as an athletic, long-bodied body that has prominent wrinkles. There are areas of fur, but usually, it’s mostly without hair.
A snapshot of the breed:
- Size and weight 8-10 inches, 8-12 pounds
- Life expectancy for the average person: 9-15 years
- Characteristics: No hair wrinkled head, slim body
7 | Ukrainian Levkoy
It is believed that the Ukrainian Levkoy is currently acknowledged by specific Ukrainian or Russian clubs. It is extremely uncommon, thought to have been a crossing between Donksoy and Scottish Fold.
The medium-sized, naked cat breed is characterized by its inward-folding ears as well as an extremely muscular, slim body, with almond-shaped wide eyes a wedge-shaped head as well as wrinkled, flaky skin. Sometimes, it is covered in soft peach fuzz instead of completely bald.
breed snapshot:
The average size, weight, and height is between 7 and 10 inches 8-12 pounds
Average life expectancy: 12-15 years
Specifications: Could be peach-colored, with a slender build
How to Care for Hairless Cats
Although many felines that we love and know are essentially “hands-off” when it comes to their grooming hairless cats need more human assistance.
The breeds that are naked are more likely to develop sunburns and skin rashes.
They also are more prone to developing health issues and can get cold frequently, which is why extra attention is crucial. We asked our experts to get their top tips on caring for these breeds that are rare.
Groom and Bathe Often
Hairless cats shed less than their furry counterparts. However, they require more grooming than other breeds.
- Problems: Oily skin and wax accumulation in the ears and around the nail bed
- Recommendations: Weekly wash or daily cleaning using a damp cloth, routine cleaning of the ear.
“In these cats, the oil glands remain present and are able to open into hair follicles that are rudimentary and apocrine ducts that open to the skin’s surface. Their skin can be extremely oily or greasy,” explains Dr. Dana Varble, a chief veterinarian from NAVC. North American Veterinary Community (NAVC).
Dr. Shari Brown, a veterinarian from Chesapeake, VA, recommends applying a gentle hydrating shampoo to your cat’s hair at least once a week. It is also possible to wipe your hair down every day with the help of a warm, soft damp cloth. Make sure to wash between wrinkles that are deep in which dirt, oil, and dust can build up.
“Also get into a routine of regular ear cleanings to help with the wax build-up,” Dr. Brown. “Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish the amount of wax that has been accumulated from an infection. If there are other indications then a visit to a veterinarian should be conducted.”
Dr. Varble adds that some of her clients notice the hairless cats’ dark-stained teeth, tongues, and toenails. She believes this could be due to an increase in sweat on the skin but often yeast infections are the culprit.
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Be on the Lookout for Skin and Health Conditions
Cats and kittens with hairless coats can be prone to developing dermatological issues. This is why regular grooming and bathing are crucial in these types of breeds.
- Problem: Hair follicles that are plugged infection, skin diseases
- Recommendations: Consult your veterinarian on treatments for your mouth or on the skin.
“Many hairless cats will develop seborrhea, comedones, [ear infections], and recurrent bacterial and yeast infections,” says the doctor. Varble. “Comedones are plugged, dilated hair follicles. They typically look like dark pimples and can be frequently seen on the cat’s neck and body. Sometimes, they are massive and appear across the entire body.”
Your vet can advise you whether diagnostic tests and treatments are required for these conditions. It is also recommended to consult your vet about specific shampoos, oral or topical medication, or even diet requirements for your furry cat.
Additionally, skin problems like rashes and pimples Certain breeds of cats with no hair are susceptible to certain health issues. Doctor. Varble says Sphynx cats (and their crossbreeds) are at risk of muscular dystrophy and heart disease.
Guard them against the Sun
The characteristics of a cat with no hair imply that it doesn’t possess any fur coat to shield against the harsh elements. This is why it’s crucial to protect your cat from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.
Risks: Damage from sunburn
Recommendations Limit exposure to the sun. Use sunscreens applied to the surface.
“This is a real issue with these cats, and I recommend that they have limited exposure to the sun even when they are indoors,” Dr. Varble. “The concern with most sunscreens is the cats licking it off, so I believe keeping their sun time-limited works best.”
how much is a hairless cat
The Sphynx cat is considered to be one of the most costly cat breeds in the entire world. Sphynx cats are normally priced between $1500 and $3000. These cats are more than 95% purebred and often come from less-known breeders. A quality breeder may cost between $3500 and $6000 per cat.