9 hairless cat breeds and how to care for them

Updated 27/09/2024

Our feline friends aren’t always of the furry variety, and while we often think of the Sphynx when talking about cats with no hair, there are plenty more hairless cat breeds that have been established in recent years. Some are born fluffy and shed their locks as they grow while others have a peach-like fuzz of soft, velvety fur which covers either their whole body, or patches of it. Today, we’re introducing you to nine of the most common hairless cat breeds, and shedding some light on how to care for them and their ever-changing hairstyles.

The most common hairless cat breeds

1. Sphynx

The Sphynx is known for being the “original” hairless cat breed and also the most popular. A naturally occurring recessive genetic mutation (try saying that three times quickly) causes the Sphynx to have little to no hair across its sleek, elegant body. Originating in the 1960s in Canada, the Sphynx is adored for both its unique look and sociable, loving character.

2. Donskoy

Otherwise known as the Don Sphynx or Russian hairless, the Donskoy is the most common hairless cat breed after the Sphynx. Here though, it’s a dominant gene that gives Donskoy cats their hair-free look, although some are born with fur which they then lose and others grow partial winter coats each year. Their large ears and webbed toes have become beloved traits, and their friendly, playful nature means they’ve stolen the hearts of pet people around the world. 

3. Bambino

An adorable cross between a Sphynx and Munchkin, the Bambino is as tiny and kitten-like as its name suggests. Some are completely fur-less while others have some fuzz around the face, legs, and tail. This playful bald cat breed will shower its loved ones with kisses and welcome newcomers, too. 

As cats bred for their short limbs can suffer from related medical problems, and Sphynx cats also have health concerns, this breed may sadly be prone to multiple health conditions and is considered ‘experimental’ by the Cat Fanciers Association.

4. Ukrainian Levkoy 

Cross a Donskoy with a Scottish Fold, and what do you get? A fuzzy Ukrainian Levkoy, of course! Folded ears distinguish the breed from the Sphynx, and they range from completely fur-less to having a thin layer of velvety fuzz all over the body or in patches. These clever kitties are affectionate and adventurous all at once, which means they’re sure to keep pet parents on their toes! 

5. Elf

The appropriately named Elf may look like the offspring of Dobby from Harry Potter, but the breed was in fact developed in the 2000s by crossing a Sphynx with an American Curl. These rare kitties often have a layer of peach fuzz that covers all or some of their bodies, but despite their “nude” look, their sociable, friendly, and affectionate nature means they’re the life and soul of the party.

6. Dwelf 

Like a smaller version of the Elf cat breed, the Dwelf inherits its looks from the American Curl, the Sphynx, and the short-legged Munchkin. The breed is unfortunately prone to health issues and skeletal problems, but this doesn’t stop them from loving nothing more than playtime and cuddles with their favorite people. 

7. Minskin

These little-legged fur-less babies are the result of crossing a Munchkin with a Sphynx, resulting in a miniature kitty with very little fur. We say very little, because these kitties do often have a layer of fuzz on their points (around the nose, ears, legs, and tail), but are usually completely hairless on their tums. 

8. Peterbald

A cross between a Donskoy and an Oriental Shorthair, the Peterbald is often born with a layer of fuzz (and occasionally even a full coat) but it’s not uncommon for them to lose this fur as they grow. With their huge ears, almond-shaped eyes, and long legs, Peterbalds are elegant and wise in appearance, but their webbed feet allow them to get up to all sorts of mischief – they can even open doors!

9. Lykoi

Just one look at the Lykoi and you’ll see why they’ve earned the nickname “werewolf cat” – golden eyes peer out of a black-gray coat, which is often bald in patches around their face, ears, and legs. Aside from their striking looks, they’re typically active and talkative, although they do enjoy a snuggle on the sofa after a long day.

Care for hairless cats

The cuddly kitties on this list of hairless cat breeds make excellent pets, but they need specialized care. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Cats with no hair are usually kept indoors as they’re extremely sensitive to the elements. As they struggle to stay warm, you may need to turn up the temperature at home and provide them with jumpers and snuggly blankets in the winter. On the flip side, their sensitive skin is prone to sunburn, so they should wear cat-friendly sunscreen, even if they’re just sunbathing on the windowsill. 
• Most bald cats (and almost hairless cat breeds, too) are known for being prone to greasy or oily skin. They need regular bathing as dirt and natural oils can build up on their skin, which can make them more prone to certain skin conditions. They should be washed when necessary with a hypoallergenic cat-safe shampoo to prevent oil build-up, then toweled dry to stop them from getting cold. 
• They need to be fed a high-quality diet to help keep their skin healthy. 
• Hairless cat breeds are often prone to health issues and skin problems including yeast infections and even skin cancer, so it’s important to take them for regular checkups at the vet.
• Cats with no hair tend to form strong bonds with their favorite people (whether it’s because you’re their personal heater or not!), so pet parents can find it hard leaving their beloved kitties behind when they need to travel. Getting an in-home cat sitter helps pet parents find peace of mind while they’re away, as their furry family member is in safe, loving hands. 

Since they’re relatively rare, hairless cat breeds can cost quite a bit. It’s extremely important to go with a reputable hairless cat breeder who follows ethical breeding practices, and also prepare yourself for higher costs for things like food and medicine. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Lizzie

This article has been checked by veterinarian Lizzie Youens BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS. Lizzie graduated from the University of Bristol in 2011, and has been working in first opinion companion animal practice. She has worked in a variety of clinics across the UK, from large hospitals to small branch practices. She enjoys doing a mixture of medicine, surgery and emergency work. Lizzie currently works in a small rural practice where she enjoys working in a close-knit community.