Posts tagged "HairlessCat"

The sphynx is easily the most recognizable breed of cat. Though considered hairless, the sphynx does have a layer of light fuzz over its body. Other than its unusual follicular qualities, the sphynx has other eye-catching features including a wedge-shaped head, large ears and often, a distended belly.

Sphynxes are not nearly as old as their name would suggest. Although the genetic mutation that results in their lack of fur is as old as genetic mutations themselves, the sphynx breed has only existed since the 1960s. Several naturally hairless cats were bred both amongst themselves and also with normal cats in order to create the genetically healthy yet consistently hairless medium-sized cat.

Being fur-free makes the sphynx an unusual cat to care for. They need to be kept warm, as their lack of fur makes them more susceptible to cold than a normal cat. They also require regular bathing because they don't have the fur that normally would remove oils from their skin.

Naturally extroverted, inquisitive, and intelligent, sphynxes are easy cats to love. They do well with humans, and always like to be the center of attention. A goal easily attained considering the breed's bizarre appearance.

The Cornish rex is one of six breeds of "rex" cats, where "rex" indicates curly hair. The hair of the Cornish rex is its most distinguishing feature, besides its slender body, large ears, and tiny, egg-shaped head. The Cornish Rex has only a down coat, usually the undercoat of a normal cat. This means that a Cornish rex's coat is extremely soft, curly, and unique.

The breed originated in 1950s England. When a cat was born in Cornwall with this strange genetic mutation, it was bred with its mother to produce more of what are now known as Cornish rexes. After that, they were taken to America where they were bred with Siamese cats, giving them their skinny appearance.

Affable, curious, and very intelligent, Cornish rexes make great cats for children and people with other pets. The coat does very little to insulate them, so they can suffer hypothermia quite easily. They fare better as inside cats, especially in a home with lots of warm, cozy objects they can rest on. Some Cornish Rexes have a mildly cheesy odor, particular to their breed, which comes from the scent glands in their paws.