Donskoy Cat: The Don Sphynx, a Wrinkled, Affectionate Hairless Cat

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

In 1987, a woman in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, rescued a kitten from a group of boys who were tormenting it. The kitten, named Varvara, went bald as she grew, and when she had kittens of her own, some were also hairless. The breed that grew from Varvara became the Donskoy, named after the Don River region, and is also known as the Don Sphynx. It is an affectionate, wrinkled cat that has become a favorite among fans of hairless breeds.

Origin and genetics

Russian breeder Elena Kovaleva developed the breed from Varvara and her descendants. Later research showed that the hairless gene in Donskoys is dominant, which means that a kitten needs only one copy to be hairless, whereas the Sphynx's hairlessness is recessive and needs two. That is why the two breeds are separate, even though they look alike. Donskoys were later used to create the Peterbald. See the Sphynx and Peterbald profiles for related breeds.

Coat types

Donskoy coats vary and may change with age and season.

• Rubber bald. Completely hairless at birth and in life.
• Flock. A thin, soft down.
• Velour. A short, soft coat that may thin as the cat ages.
• Brush. A wiry, short and curly coat, with hair on the legs, face and tail.

Some cats seem to lose hair in winter or when stressed, and regrow it later. The genetics make it hard to predict what a kitten's adult coat will be.

Appearance

Donskoys are medium-sized, with a muscular, strong body, long legs and a wedge-shaped head with large ears and almond-shaped eyes. Wrinkles are typical, especially on the head, neck and legs. The skin may feel warm and rubbery, and can show any color pattern. The toes are flexible and the feet appear dexterous, like small hands. Whiskers and eyebrows are often curly or missing.

Adults weigh about six to twelve pounds, with males larger than females.

Personality

Donskoys are known for their affection. They are often described as dog-like, meeting visitors, following people from room to room and enjoying being carried. They are intelligent, and they like to be near people, so they do poorly when alone for long hours. They enjoy company, sometimes seeking warmth by cuddling under blankets.

They are playful but not hyperactive, and they enjoy climbing, toys and interactive games. They are generally quiet, with soft voices. They get on with children, cats and dogs. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat. See cat separation anxiety and indoor cat enrichment ideas.

Skin and coat care

• Baths. Oils from the skin build up, so bathe every one to three weeks, or as your vet advises. See how to bathe a cat.
• Sun protection. Hairless skin burns easily. Keep your cat out of direct sun, and consult your vet about safe sunscreen.
• Warmth. Provide soft blankets, heated beds and clothing in cool weather. See winter safety for cats.
• Ears. Large ears collect wax. See how to clean a cat's ears.
• Nails. Clean nail folds and trim regularly. See how to trim cat nails.
• Brush types. Occasional gentle brushing. See how to brush a cat.

Health

Donskoys are generally healthy, but known concerns include:

• Skin problems. Acne, sunburn and irritation. See cat skin allergies.
• Dental disease. Some lines have dental problems. See cat dental disease.
• Heart disease. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
• Respiratory infections. See upper respiratory infections in cats.
• Hair loss and skin disease can look alike. Ask your vet.

Because the breed is relatively small, ask breeders about health testing and the health of relatives.

Is it the right cat for you?

A Donskoy suits someone who wants a cuddly, social cat and is willing to care for its skin. It is not for owners who are away often, who want a low-grooming pet or who live in a cold house. See hypoallergenic cat breeds: the truth.

Finding a Donskoy

The breed is rare outside Russia and Eastern Europe. Choose registered breeders who health-test and raise kittens in the home. See how to choose a kitten. Beware of sellers who sell any hairless kitten as a Donskoy.

When to see a vet

See a vet if your cat has skin rashes, sudden hair loss or breathing changes. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.