Peterbald Cat: Slender, Social and Sometimes Hairless

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

The Peterbald is one of the most elegant of the hairless cats. Developed in St. Petersburg in the 1990s, it combines the long lines and big ears of an Oriental Shorthair with a coat gene from the Donskoy that can leave it bare, fuzzy or covered in short, wiry hair. Most of all, though, the Peterbald is known for its devotion to people.

Origin

In 1994, Russian breeder Olga Mironova crossed a Donskoy male named Afinogen with an Oriental Shorthair female named Nocturne. The kittens inherited the Donskoy's dominant hairless gene and the Oriental's slender body. The breed name combines St. Petersburg and bald. It was recognized by cat associations in the late 1990s and early 2000s, and it is still uncommon. See the Donskoy and Oriental Shorthair profiles for the breeds that shaped it, and the Sphynx for a hairless breed with a different gene.

Coat types

The Peterbald's coat can be one of several types, and a kitten's coat may change as it grows.

• Bald. No hair, with skin that feels like warm rubber or chamois.
• Flock. Fine, short down, up to about two millimeters, which feels like peach skin.
• Velour. Short, soft fuzz, up to five millimeters, that may disappear on the head and neck.
• Brush. Sparse, wiry, curly hair, which may feel coarse.
• Straight. A normal short coat, but the cat carries the gene.

Bald cats can develop more coat over time, and brush types sometimes lose hair. Ask breeders about the cat's coat and what to expect.

Appearance

Peterbalds are slim, muscular, long-legged cats, with long necks, wedge-shaped heads, large, wide-set ears and almond-shaped eyes. Whiskers may be absent or curly. Adults typically weigh six to ten pounds. Skin color matches the color a coat would have, and can show a range of patterns.

Personality

Peterbalds are highly sociable, affectionate and intelligent. They seek out company, and they like to be on people's laps, shoulders and in their beds. They are good communicators, vocal and chatty, and they often insist on being involved in everything. They are playful, curious and athletic, and they like climbing and puzzle toys.

They do not like being alone. Long hours without company can cause stress and mischief. See cat separation anxiety and leaving a cat alone. They do well with other cats and friendly dogs, and often benefit from having a feline friend. See how to introduce a new cat to your cat.

Give them lots of interaction. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.

Skin and coat care

• Bathing. Bald and flock types build up oil on the skin, and need regular baths, perhaps every one to three weeks. See how to bathe a cat.
• Sun. Protect from direct sunlight, since skin can burn.
• Warmth. Provide warm bedding and sweaters. See winter safety for cats.
• Ears. Large ears collect wax. Clean regularly. See how to clean a cat's ears.
• Nails. Clean and trim. See how to trim cat nails.
• Coat types. Brush types may need an occasional soft brushing. See how to brush a cat.

Health

Peterbalds are generally healthy, but breed-related risks include:

• Skin conditions. Acne, irritation and sunburn. See cat skin allergies.
• Dental disease. See cat dental disease.
• Heart disease. Ask breeders about screening. See hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in cats.
• Respiratory infections. See upper respiratory infections in cats.
• Temperature sensitivity.
• Anesthesia sensitivity reported in some hairless breeds. Tell your vet.

Is it the right cat for you?

The Peterbald is a good fit for someone who wants a constant, affectionate companion and who is prepared for skin care. It is a poor choice for people who are out all day or who want a low-maintenance cat. See hypoallergenic cat breeds: the truth.

Finding a Peterbald

Look for registered breeders who health-test, raise kittens in the home and give honest information about coat types. See how to choose a kitten. Expect waiting lists and high prices.

Choosing a coat type

Because coats can change, think about how much skin care you can manage before choosing a kitten. Bald and flock types need the most bathing and sun protection, while brush and straight-coated Peterbalds are easier. Ask the breeder to explain the likely adult coat, and ask to see photographs of the parents at different ages. Remember that coat type does not affect personality.

Warmth and comfort

Peterbalds love heat. Provide a heated cat bed, a sunny but shaded window spot and soft blankets. Many sleep under the covers with their owners. Keep room temperatures comfortable, and avoid drafts, particularly for young kittens.

When to see a vet

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