This strange looking creature is a hairless cat, know as a Sphynx cat. In 1966 a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Toronto, Canada. It was discovered to be a natural mutation and the Sphynx cat came into existence. This cat and a few other naturally hairless cats have been found worldwide. These have been produced by Mother Nature and are the foundation for this unusual breed. Cat breeders in Europe and North America have bred the Sphynx to normal coated cats and then back to hairless for more than thirty years. The purpose of these selective breedings was to create a genetically sound cat with a large gene pool and hybrid vigor. This is a very robust breed with few health or genetic problems.The Sphynx is not always totally hairless; there can be a fine down on the body, which makes the cat feel like a warm peach. Of course this cat breed feels the cold and couldn't live in a cold climate unless it was well wrapped up. Some people who are allergic to cats can tolerate being around this breed, but even then the allergies sometimes win.
(Not quite as sharp a pic as I'd have liked. Bear with me whilst I learn how to use this new camera...)
Wow. This is strange. They look like the creatures in the Gremlins movie.
ReplyDeleteThis is a pure rare breed and I can see why you are surprised that this kind of animal would be ever loved by anyone
ReplyDeleteWeird kitty....I look a bit like that sometimes, in early a.m. and in bad lighting.... :<)
ReplyDeleteThey are strange to look at, but I bet if you got to know one you'd learn to love it.
ReplyDeleteWe have two of these cats in a neighborhood where I frequently walk. One is quite friendly, the other rather shy. The friendly one often comes out to greet me and I can tell you that to pet such a creature is a wonderful experience. They are as soft as talcum powder.
ReplyDeleteThey have sweet, worried faces with those wrinkled brows of theirs. I think I could love a face like that...although the last thing I need is another cat!
ReplyDeleteThey have sweet, worried faces with those wrinkled brows. I could love a face like that!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know it was a natural mutation. Love those cats! And yes, I am allergic to outdoor cat's hair, gives me a kind of asthma. No problem with house cats, fortunately!
ReplyDeleteDon't they get a sunburnt??
ReplyDeleteI heard that pigs can get it, too.
Barbara / Germany
I have seen those before, not sure I'd like a pet without fur though but they sure are unusual.
ReplyDeleteThey just look so wrong!
ReplyDeleteThanks but no thanks! :)
ReplyDeletev
I have a friend that has two of these unusual cats and although they look a little like creatures from hell, they are very tender and loving.
ReplyDeleteThe photos make me feel uncomfortable but I was relieved by your commentary saying it was a natural and healthy breed.
ReplyDeleteA fascinating post
Jilly, I read somewhere that they smell funny. Is that true?
ReplyDeleteUgg, too ugly for me. Nothing nicer than petting a furry cat.
ReplyDeleteGreat post though. :)
I love kitties and have two, but these guys hold no attraction for me at all. Poor dears :-)
ReplyDeleteSo Jilly, what camera are you working with now? I hope you are enjoying it as you get used to its features.
These are GREAT shots.
-Kim
Kim, I'm whizzing over to Seattle DP to tell you about my new camera which is a Panasonic Lumix - micro four thirds - GH1.
ReplyDeleteI like their foreheads - very expressive. Look a little bit like plucked chickens from the back, the poor dears. I hope they have wooly coats to wear.
ReplyDeleteVery scary looking cats, not for me at all, look like they are deformed...poor cats.
ReplyDeleteGreat pics of great cats! Am fascinated by them. I am enjoying your cat show series.
ReplyDeletepoor cats ):
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