Hairless Kitten – Name This Cat Breed

This breed started in 1966 when a hairless kitten was born to a normal queen (female cat).  Although most of the body is bald, these cats often have short hair on their face, ears and paws that feels like suede.  Name this breed of cat.  Cat connoisseurs may also be able to name one other morphological feature these cats are missing.  Hint:  It is apparent from this photo of little Miss Lee.

                                    

Diagnosis:  Sphynx

Besides missing a fur coat, these cats also lack long whiskers!  They sometimes develop a few short fine ones that break off easily.  Sphynx come with all different coat colors.  Their eyes are typically gold, green or hazel.  Lee appears to have blue eyes.  This is common in young animals.  Her true eye color will not be apparent until she matures.  She also has a dirty face.  See the clumps of dried brown food stuck to her pink muzzle?  At the time of the picture, this kitten was learning to eat solid food.  Like youngsters of any species, she ended up wearing almost as much as she swallowed!   

Published by kristennelsondvm

Dr. Kristen Nelson grew up on a farm in Watertown, Minn., where she developed a deep love for animals of all kinds. She received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Kris then completed a small-animal internship at the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York City. In addition to writing and speaking, she cares for small and exotic animals in Scottsdale, Az. Dr. Nelson is widely quoted in the media. Her credits include Ladies’ Home Journal, USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Times and numerous radio and television interviews. Dr. Nelson has written two books, Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life and Coated With Fur: A Blind Cat’s Love. Kris and her husband Steve share their home with rescued cats, birds and a dog.