Sphynx
About the Breed
The Sphynx breed was discovered in Toronto, Canada in 1966 born to a domestic cat with a regular coat. The hairlessness resulted from a natural mutation and wasn’t the first example of hairlessness in cats.
The Canadian Sphynx and other hairless cats include the Devon Rex and the American Shorthair cats are among the breeds that played a role in the development of the Sphynx breed.
Sphynx are a registered breed by both TICA (The International Cat Association) and CFA (Cat Fancier Association). Sphynx owners proudly show their Sphynx in cat shows all over the world.
Demeanor and Personality
Sphynx cats are friendly, loving, and energetic show-offs who crave human attention. Sphynx cats are acrobatic clowns who love to entertain and delight their humans. Their regal looks and serious expression may fool some humans but, they are often referred to as “monkey, dog, cats.” They will follow you around the house and greet guests like a puppy. They enjoy playing on a cat tree, jumping in the air and climbing on their human’s shoulders like a monkey. They are a loyal breed who will often be found in their owner’s lap or perched on their owner’s shoulders. They are energetic with fun and crazy personalities. They enjoy families, children and single owners.
What they lack in fur, they make up in personality. If you are looking for a fun and affectionate pet, look no further.
Bambino
About the Breed
In 2005 the first litter of Bambino’s were registered and are quickly growing in popularity because of their funny personalities. Bambinos are a hybrid breed between the Sphynx (hairless) and the Munchkin (short-legs).
The word Bambino means ‘baby’ in Italian, and this breed has been so-called because of its short legs and lack of fur. The International Cat Association has recognized the Bambino as an experimental breed.
The breed is known to have many of the characteristics of the Sphynx and the Munchkin. Along with their unique appearance, they appeal to some people because they tend to be very affectionate and characterful cats.
Demeanor and Personality
They are known for being very playful and love to be surrounded by company. They are not a cat that would be suited to being left for long periods regularly. They can also suit homes with gentle children and other animals, as they are very sociable and friendly.
Despite their shorter legs, Bambinos are known for being energetic and surprisingly agile. You will need to make sure that you have plenty of toys and other forms of kitty enrichment around the home. This will help to keep them entertained and prevent problem behaviors developing as a result of boredom.
Their shorter legs could tire more easily though, and they will not be able to jump as high or as far as a cat with long legs.
Elf
About the Breed
In 2004 Kristen Leedom and Karen Nelson of Falmari began working toward creating a new hybrid rare bread, the Elf. The Elf breed benefitted from gaining the genetic diversity of the American Curl and the Highlander through both being chosen for those amazing curled ears.
Elves are accepted as a registered breed and many breeder and owners show their elves in TICA (The International Cat Association) shows.
Demeanor and Personality
The Elf is that of the Sphynx with only a modification for the Elf’s curled ears. The standard Elf appears to be a hairless cat, although it is not truly hairless. The skin should have the texture of chamois; it may be covered with very fine down which is almost imperceptible to both the eye and the touch. On the ears, muzzle, tail, feet and scrotum, short, soft, fine hair is often found. The Elves ears are large and open and curve back in an arc to the curled tips. The Elf is sweet-tempered, lively and intelligent and above all else loves to cuddle. Elf cats often make a purring sound that sounds like a bird chirping.
Elf cats were bred to retain the best qualities of their parent breeds. Elves are intelligent, friendly, social, outgoing and very affectionate; they’re lively and active but gentle at the same time. Elf cats will thrive on human attention and love. They are loyal and will often be found by your side or on your lap. They do, however, have a mischievous side. They love to climb and play with anything within their reach. Lots of toys are a must if you have an Elf cat. They also love high spots, so make sure you provide your cat with a few high shelves or other high located areas. Elf cats can adapt to almost any home situation easily. They also adjust to other animals remarkably well. However, it’s not recommended to leave your cat alone all day long. If you have no choice, consider getting a companion for your Elf cat.