Hairless cats are animals that attract everyone's attention. Many people adore them. And that's because, despite needing much more care Those whose bodies are protected by one or two layers of fur are just as affectionate as even the most sociable European feline (and some would say even more so).
But What is the origin of hairless cats? Are they a work of nature or, rather, of the human being?
The answer to that question, although it may surprise, is the following: It is about cats that are born naturally without hairHairless, smooth, or bald cats have appeared throughout history and will most likely continue to do so. This mutation was first detected in Canada in the 1960s and is recessive. Once identified by breeders, it was decided to fix it through selective breeding programs, most likely using certain breeds as a base. devon rex and other short-haired domestic cats.
Brief historical tour of hairless cats
Although the modern sphynx became established in North America, the Naked cats have been known for almost two centuriesChanges in the coat of felines are, in general, the product of spontaneous mutations that can arise in any population of domestic cats:
- They were already described in treatises on natural history hairless cats in South America, specifically in Paraguay, as local curiosities.
- At the beginning of the 20th century, the famous “Aztec cats” of MexicoTwo hairless specimens were attributed with an ancient origin. It was later revealed that this story was embellished to attract attention and generate financial gain, but it does demonstrate that baldness mutations occurred naturally.
- In Europe, photographs were taken Hairless cats exhibited at cat showsHowever, many of these specimens did not leave offspring due to lack of interest or health problems resulting from inbreeding.
These isolated cases show that nature has long been "experimenting" with hairless cats, although it wasn't until breeders decided to work systematically with these mutations that the phenomenon became established. first stable and recognized breed of hairless cats: the sphynx.
The modern sphynx and the fixation of the hairless mutation
From the moment a completely hairless kitten was detected in a litter of domestic cats, the breeders decided set this feature to create a new race. To do this:
- They crossed paths hairless cats with domestic cats carriers of the mutation to increase genetic variability.
- Subsequently, they also resorted to crosses with curly breeds such as the Devon Rex to provide body structure and improve overall health.
- The naked descendants were selected generation after generation until they obtained the current type of sphynx: muscular body, wrinkled skin, very large ears and a fine down similar to peach skin.
What they couldn't foresee was that the kittens that were born would also end up having a high probability of having dental, nervous system or heart problemsDespite interbreeding, which resulted in a loss of genetic variability, in the early decades of breeding, the strong founder effect and inbreeding fixed not only hairlessness but also metabolic and systemic defects not wanted.
Over time, responsible breeders began to introduce new blood from domestic cats and compatible breeds, eliminating specimens with serious diseases from breeding programs. Thanks to this selective breeding, today the Sphynx is considered a vigorous and long-lived cat comparable to other breeds, although it is still essential to always acquire it from serious breeders that carry out health tests.
Other hairless cat breeds and mutations involved
Although the sphynx is the most famous, there are currently others several hairless cat breeds or with partial baldness, all of them caused by different mutations:
- Sphynx, minskin and elf catThey share a mutation in the gene KRT71 (keratin 71)responsible for the proper formation of hair. This alteration causes the hair follicle not to produce a full coat, resulting in bare skin or skin covered by very fine hair.
- Donskoy and PeterbaldHis baldness is associated with a form of ectodermal dysplasia, a genetic disorder that affects the skin, hair, and teeth. Unlike sphynx, here the mutation behaves like dominant gene and can express different degrees of hair: from completely bald specimens to cats with very sparse fur that they lose with age.
- Lykoï or “wolf cat”: presents a partial hypotrichosis with bald patches and others with fur, giving it a wolf-like appearance. Its mutation also affects the KRT71 gene, but in a different way, and it is not considered a completely hairless breed.
- Bambino and Ukrainian Levkoy: are hybrid breeds in consolidation phase. The bambino arises from the cross between munchkin and sphynx (hairless and short-legged), while the levkoy combines donskoy and scottish fold (ears folded forward and baldness).
In some of these breeds, the cat is not completely bald; it may retain a very fine fuzz or different types of very short fur, and in the case of the donskoy there are even well-defined varieties, from cats with some fur to completely hairless ones.
Current status, popularity, and price of hairless cats
Despite everything, the number of people who love hairless cats is only growing today. In fact, the Sphynx breed is established in both Europe and the United States, regularly participating in feline exhibitions and obtaining excellent results against short-haired breeds.
At the same time, there is a ethical and legal debate Regarding some extreme variations, in certain countries, breeding cats without proper veterinary care is considered inappropriate. whiskers Functional, since these structures are essential for the animal's orientation and well-being. There is also concern about selecting lines with excessively large ears or overly wrinkled skin if this leads to health problems.
However, due to his youth and rarity, the The price of the Sphynx and other hairless breeds is highIn many European and American markets, the price can easily exceed one thousand euros or dollars, especially if the kitten comes from champion lines, is neutered, properly vaccinated, and has up-to-date medical tests. In many European breeders and markets, the average price for a quality kitten is usually between 1800 and 2500 eurosAlthough this can vary depending on lineage and health tests. Furthermore, it's important to note that these are animals that require specific care. special care and regular veterinary check-ups, which increases the overall cost of maintenance.
Health, allergies and basic care of hairless cats
A widespread belief is that hairless cats are hypoallergenicActually, they aren't. Most people with allergies react to the protein Error d 1present in saliva and the sebaceous glands of the skin, not in the hair itself. Although hairless cats shed less fur, they still produce this protein in their skin and saliva, so can cause allergies equally.
Because they lack a coat to act as a barrier, hairless cats are more sensitive to changes in temperature and solar radiationAmong the essential care measures are:
- Sun protectionTheir skin burns easily, so they should not be exposed to intense direct sunlight. In necessary cases, the veterinarian may recommend specific sun protection.
- Stable indoor environmentIt's best for them to live indoors, away from drafts, and with access to warm blankets or beds to prevent colds and respiratory problems. Due to their sensitive skin and exposure to risks (sunburn, parasites, or accidents), It is not advisable to let them go outside as usual
- Skin hygieneSince there is no hair to absorb the sebum, the skin accumulates more oil. Gentle baths with a specific shampoo or cleansing with appropriate damp cloths are helpful, paying special attention to wrinkles and folds.
- Eye and ear careSince they often lack visible eyelashes, their eyes frequently accumulate secretions, so it's advisable to clean them with products recommended by your veterinarian. Their ears also produce more wax and require regular checkups and cleanings.
From a genetic point of view, certain lines of sphynx may exhibit hypertrophic cardiomyopathyDental problems associated with the same gene as baldness, and to a lesser extent, neuromuscular or skin disorders. Therefore, choosing the right treatment is essential. Breeders who perform echocardiograms, dental checkups, and genetic testingthus preventing the perpetuation of sick animals.
Despite their specific health and maintenance needs, hairless cats are known for a an extraordinarily affectionate, active, and social characterThis, along with their distinctive appearance, explains their surge in popularity. Understanding their genetic origin, environmental needs, and required care is the best way to enjoy their company for many years with the highest quality of life.