Over the years, hairless cats have had several names and there has been considerable speculation about their breeding. There was a time that hairless cats were known as Mexican hairless, not unlike the breed of dogs from Mexico.
Today, the Sphynx is the leading
breed of hairless cats recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), an official breed registry, and enjoyed by many. Other hairless cats include the Don Sphynx and the Peterbald (a.k.a. the Petersburg Sphynx or the Oriental Hairless), both bred in Russia.
Unlike many breeds, hairless cats like the Sphynx are not ancient breeds. In fact, hairless cats are not even old. In 1966, a cat in Canada gave birth to a hairless kitten and thus, the Sphynx breed was born. Over the years, these naturally occurring hairless cats were crossed with other breeds to create a healthy and sound Sphynx. The Sphynx of today is said to be a sound, bright, healthy, and delightful companion.
The FCA's breed standard for the Sphynx offers valuable insight into hairless cats:
"Coat/Skin: This cat has a hairless appearance. However, short and fine hair may be present on the feet, outer edges of the ears, the tail, and the scrotum. The bridge of the nose should normally be coated. The remainder of the body can range from completely hairless to a covering of soft peach-like fuzz that is no longer than 1/8th of an inch (two millimeters) in length. This coat or skin texture creates a feeling of resistance while stroking the cat. Wrinkled skin is desirable, particularly around the muzzle, between the ears, and around the shoulders. There are usually no whiskers, but if whiskers are present, they are short and sparse."
So, the hairless cat, if you want to split hairs, is an "almost hairless cat". Many owners likened petting a hairless cat to rubbing your hand over chamois.
Hairless cats, like the Sphynx, may be good for people who suffer from pet allergies. Some find that they can live with Sphynx cats. However, before dashing out to shop for hairless cats for the cat allergic member of your family, check with your vet and physician first.
Also, check with reputable breeders of any hairless cats before you plunk down your money. Keep in mind that hairless cats are rare. Most breeders will have a line of anxious and adoring families waiting to purchase one. Also, because of their rarity, hairless cats may cost more than those with hair.
Families with hairless cats have things to keep in mind:
They are best kept indoors as they are susceptible to cold.
- As hairless cats are not terribly cold-tolerant, provide them with a warm place when they need it. Expect them to stay close, even when you go to bed at night.
- While you may not have to brush them, they will need to be bathed.
And, yes, owners of hairless cats are inevitably asked: "Did you shave your cat?" Then they spend a bit of time explaining that hairless cats occur naturally, and that while they may look different, they are all cat.