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The Russian Peterbald is an intelligent and athletic animal that not only learns tricks but can also use its paws like hands. However, the pedigree cat did not gain fame because of its abilities, but because of its striking fur. This is (almost) completely absent in some individuals.
History and Origin of the “Peterbald”
The Peterbald is a young Russian cat breed that owes its name to its hometown (Saint Petersburg) and its naked appearance (soon).
The Peterbald is a cat that was created in 1994 from the proposed crossbreeding of the Don Sphynx and the Oriental Shorthair. This combination is no longer allowed. In order to consolidate the characteristics of the Peterbald, Burmese and Siamese cats, among others, are used today.
The Russian pedigree cat has already been recognized by several associations. In addition to the SFF, the TICA, and the World Cat Federation, the FiFe has also been included since 2007. However, this has so far not given a permanent, but only a preliminary confirmation.
Essence and Character
The Russian Peterbald is a sociable animal that prefers to be in the company of a human or fellow pet. If she knows how to get in contact with other four- and two-legged friends, she gets along with people and animals (cats, dogs, etc.) alike. Since the Peterbald cat is very good-natured, the interaction between her and the children can also harmonize.
Although the peaceful Peterbald loves to cuddle, she is full of curiosity and very active. A low-stimulus environment could therefore be too boring for her. Instead, she loves climbing opportunities and playing together or alone. Since Peterbald is very intelligent, it can do clicker training and learn how to use intelligence toys.
The Appearance of the “Peterbald”
The medium-sized Peterbald has an athletic, lean build and a long, thin cat’s tail. In the naked Perterbald cats, the underlying skin folds are clearly visible.
Her head is reminiscent of a triangular shape. At the top sit the large ears, which are alertly directed forward and set apart obliquely. The expressive eyes are almond-shaped. Their color can vary between green and blue depending on the fur.
But the main feature of the Peterbald is its coat. This is divided into different types:
- Bald/Naked/Rubber: Hairless
- Flock/Chamois: Almost naked
- Velour: Light, velvety fur
- Brush: Rough fur of varying degrees and structure
- Straight: Normal hair
Although the Russian pedigree cat is a hairless cat, many individuals do have a bit of fur. However, the coat types are changeable up to the age of two! There are no restrictions regarding coat color and pattern. According to the breed standard, all colors are allowed.
Attitude and Care
Since the Peterbald does not have dense fur to protect it from the weather, keeping it indoors is the safest form of housing.
Despite being housed in a house, the cat should be able to hide, climb and play, i.e. be able to move in a manner appropriate to its species.
The Peterbald doesn’t care how many and which members (children, dogs, cats, etc.) make up the household in which she lives. However, she prefers living with an active, playful family and prefers not to be alone when possible. A second cat is therefore highly recommended for working cat owners.
The Russian hairless cat is basically a breed of cat that does not have any serious health problems. However, due to the nudity, she can increasingly have skin problems. However, this can be avoided with appropriate care (e.g. sun protection). In addition, Peterbald is prone to progressive retinal atrophy, which is an inherited eye disease. However, reputable breeders use genetic tests to rule out that their protégés are affected.
Outdoor cat or indoor cat?
The peculiarity that the Peterbald has little or no fur means that it is very sensitive to the weather: At temperatures below 18 degrees, it freezes and there is a risk of sunburn when it is exposed to the sun (this is especially true for light-skinned cats). With this in mind, the home is, of course, the safest place. Nevertheless, there is nothing to prevent the cats from going outside without appropriate protective measures (shade, cat coat, warm retreat). An escape-proof garden would be the ideal option. Peterbald cats with dark skin and relatively dense fur are best suited for outdoor use.