Are you looking for a kitten and don’t know which one to adopt? If you like different and uncommon cat breeds, here I have the winning cat. This breed has been around for less than 20 years and will undoubtedly make many people turn around and ask, “is it a Sphynx?” Well, no, it’s the one and only Dwelf cat!
If you have never heard about this curious cat breed, don’t worry. Here are the most important facts you should know before getting one of these little guys.
Dwelf cat: Origin
This cat is a cross between the Sphynx, the Munchkin, and the American Curl, and the first litter was born in the United States and is one of the few cat breeds bred since the beginning of the 21st century. And although it is already known and there are many specimens, most cat associations still don’t recognize it as a breed because it is so new that it is still considered in an experimental stage in which the final characteristics are being defined.
It should be noted that, although the result of this crossing experiment was a gorgeous cat, it’s not advisable to create new cat breeds, especially if they have such particular traits. In most cases, these intentional genetic mutations bring many medical difficulties that reduce the animal’s quality of life.
What does a Dwelf cat look like?
It is a small cat that can measure up to 7 inches and weighs only between 4 and 9 pounds. What most characterizes it is its lack of hair. Although some have specks of hair scattered around the body, most only have a light fuzz that is almost invisible, so we can say they are bald like the Sphynx. Their coat usually has many wrinkles, and in terms of color can range from pink to black or even bicolor.
Their short stature is because, like the Munchkin, they have short legs, making them look longer. But despite their short stature, their body is muscular and firm, and this energetic cat can’t be stopped by anything. And as for his relationship with his American Curl relatives, he inherited the curved ears that go perfectly with that pair of big round eyes that can come in any color.
Dwelf cat: Personality
These cats are sought not only because of their distinguished appearance but also because they have perfect personalities. And I say “almost” because there is a small detail that will be definitive for you to confirm if this will be your type of cat or not.
The Dwelf is a super-intelligent cat that enjoys spending time playing and especially if it is a game that challenges the mind, so you can start thinking about preparing his army of toys before you bring him home. Besides being very playful, they are very affectionate. They love to be with their family and receive cuddles. Something peculiar is that they love to be carried, just like the Ragdoll.
This cat will follow you around the house and keep you company in your activities. If you take a dog for a walk, the Dwelf will not hesitate to go out with its harness and accompany you because besides being friendly with people, it usually gets along well with other pets.
The only downside to this kitty is that he is extremely clingy, and if left home alone for long hours, he can develop separation anxiety. So if you work outside all day, this cat may not suit you. Vets recommend calm owners who work at home or are retired to ensure a relaxed lifestyle for this feline, as in addition to being clingy, he has a hard time with changes in routine.
Dwelf cat: Required care
As with all pets, we must take care of their health as if it were our own because now your cat is your responsibility.
One of the most critical aspects of these buddies is skin care. Since they don’t have hair, their skin is exposed to the environment, so they must be protected from the cold and heat. It would help if you tried to keep them warm in winter with a good sweater and controlled temperature.
At the same time, in the summer season, you should take care that the cat does not spend too much time exposed to the sun because they are very prone to sunburns, mainly because they, like all cats, like to take long sunbathes. To prevent problems, you can apply special sunscreens for cats and avoid taking them out for a walk when the sun is at its highest. This is an indoor cat (not an outdoor one).
Another point is hygiene! Oh yes, although this cat doesn’t require strenuous brushing (it doesn’t shed that much), they need a weekly bath, and I’ll tell you why. Cats secrete oils that help keep their skin moisturized.
Usually, this oil spreads through their fur, and that’s it, but since Dwelf cats don’t have hair, the oil accumulates on their skin, and in excess, can lead to infections, dirt buildup, and of course, their skin being buttery. So you know, a bath every few days and be sure to clean between his many wrinkles. You don’t want him to accumulate dirt.
Dwelf cat: Health issues
As they are a new breed, it is unknown which diseases they are most prone to, but we can tell you which conditions are thought to most commonly affect them based on those involving their ancestors.
- Lordosis: It refers to an extreme curvature of the spine, causing pain, numbness, and weakness.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy causes the heart muscle to stiffen, compromising blood pumping.
- Osteoarthritis: It’s the degeneration of the joints, natural wear, and tear that causes the bones to rub against each other, causing pain and stiffness.
Dwelf cat: Final thoughts
The Dwelf cat is the ideal pet for many who dream of having a loving cat that enjoys endless cuddles without the danger of scratches. If this is your perfect pet, I advise you to carefully research breeders to see which one is right for you. You can expect to spend up to $3,000 for a cat, so you better start saving!
Now you know everything about the Dwelf cat! Are you thinking of adopting one? Let us know in the comments below.