Donskoy cat breed: facts, temperament and care

About the Donskoy

The Donskoy, also called the Don Sphynx, traces back to 1987, when Elena Kovaleva rescued a kitten in Rostov-on-Don, Russia. The kitten, a blue tortoiseshell called Varvara, began losing her fur at about four months old. Her hairless and thin-haired kittens became the foundation of the breed, which was later crossed with European Shorthairs. TICA recognised the breed in 2005.

Hairlessness here comes from a dominant gene, unlike the recessive gene behind the Sphynx, so the two breeds are not related. Donskoys come in four coat types. Rubber bald cats are born bald and stay bald. Flock cats have a peach-fuzz coat that is often lost. Velour cats have a wavy coat as kittens that goes within the first year. Brush cats keep a wiry coat with bare patches and are not allowed in the show ring. The body is medium-sized and muscular, with large ears and a wrinkled, expressive face.

Temperament and living with one

The Donskoy is sociable, curious and intelligent. It wants to be with people and often sleeps under the covers, perches on a shoulder or follows the family from room to room. Most are good with children and get on with other cats and friendly dogs. They learn tricks and routines quickly.

They do poorly in long periods of solitude. A second cat or a household that is rarely empty helps. Many enjoy climbing, and a few swim for fun.

Care: coat, food and play

Skin care takes the place of brushing. Bald cats gather body oil on the skin and may need regular wiping or an occasional bath, and your vet can suggest a suitable cat shampoo. Keep the cat indoors, away from direct sun, since bare skin can burn. The home needs to stay warm, with blankets or a heated bed within reach.

Ears and nail folds collect waxy debris and need regular cleaning. A hairless body burns energy to stay warm, so feed a complete diet in measured meals and adjust to the cat's condition. Give climbing space and daily play.

Health

The gene for hairlessness is dominant. A cat that inherits two copies may have a form of ectodermal dysplasia, with poor teeth, reduced sweating and difficulty nursing, which is why careful breeders do not pair two hairless carriers. Skin problems, including sunburn and oily or irritated skin, are common in bare cats. Some countries restrict the breeding of cats with traits such as lack of fur, so the breed's welfare is debated. Check local law and ask your vet about teeth and skin.

Is it right for you?

Choose a Donskoy if you want a hairless cat that is people-oriented and sturdy, and can supply warmth, skin care and company. The Peterbald is a slimmer, Oriental-type alternative, and the Sphynx is the better-known hairless breed. Ask any breeder about the health of the parents.