The Peterbold breed was born in the late 90’s in St. Petersburg, where the name comes from. Breeders crossed an oriental cat with a Don Sphynx, obtaining an interesting result – a graceful, slender, intelligent looking and striking charisma creature.
The main feature of the Peterbold is its different types of coat: completely naked (homozygous), velour (short, soft fluff), brushed (hard texture) or even with thin smooth fur. But regardless of the type, their skin is always warm, velvety to the touch, with shades that can change depending on the season or light.
Its body is long, flexible, with graceful paws and an unusually long tail that resembles a whip. Large ears, like wings, are placed high, and almond-shaped eyes add mystery to the look. The Sphynx Peterbold is pure elegance in every movement, in every curve of the body, it is like a cat from another dimension, which came to your home.
Peterbold’s character: a cat who wants to be with you always
The Peterbold is a cat that cannot be ignored. It is not your typical independent cat that walks on its own. Peterbalds are deeply social, extremely affectionate, and need constant human contact. They will sit next to you, sleep in your bed, follow you around the apartment, and try to climb into your arms even when you didn’t plan it.
They are often called “cat dogs” for their affection and obedience. They love to talk – not loudly, but often and clearly, especially when they want attention. Peterbalds are easy to train, memorize rules, respond to intonation and are very sensitive to the mood of the owner. If you are sad, he will feel it and come to comfort you.
At the same time – they are active, inquisitive creatures that do not tolerate boredom. They need toys, company, space for research and necessarily live communication. Loneliness can cause Peterbold stress and even changes in behavior. They get along well with other animals – both cats and dogs – as long as they are open to socialization.
The Peterbold is more than a pet. It is a friend, a housemate, a family member who is always near, always in the shower and on your lap.
Peterbold grooming
Whether the Peterbold has completely bare skin or fine fluff, grooming is a specialty. This breed does not have a coat that absorbs skin grease, so a natural secretion builds up on the surface of the body over time. If you do not carry out regular procedures, this can lead to irritations, unpleasant odor or clogged pores. Therefore, the main recommendation is periodic bathing, about once every 10-14 days. For this purpose, choose a delicate sulfate-free, moisturizing or anti-inflammatory cat shampoo, depending on the condition of the skin.
Since Peterbalds do not have a fur coat, their skin is particularly vulnerable to external influences. In summer – the risk of sunburn, in winter – hypothermia. Therefore, such cats are not allowed to go for walks, and in the cold season it is worth maintaining a comfortable temperature at home. Some owners even buy them lightweight knitted overalls for insulation.
Peterbold ears are large and open, so they need regular cleaning. Wax accumulates in them faster than in fluffy breeds. Once a week, the ears should be gently wiped with a special product or a soft cloth soaked in lotion for cat ears. The same applies to the eyes – some cats have a slight tear, so they should be wiped regularly with a cotton pad.
Claws, as with any cat, require trimming once every 2-3 weeks. And although Peterbalds do not have thick hair, they love procedures where they are stroked, massaged, groomed – grooming becomes a ritual of communication and trust for them. That’s why it pays to see a professional groomer at least occasionally. In salons that have experience working with hairless breeds, masters and masters will not only qualitatively wash and clean the skin, but also moisturize it with special means, treat folds, ears, eyes, paw pads and provide full-fledged care that Peterbald deserves.
A Peterbald in your home
A Peterbold is a daily responsibility. Its skin requires care, attention and the right microclimate in the house. Despite the lack of fur, it is not a hypoallergenic breed – allergies can be caused by proteins from skin secretion or saliva. But the main “difficulty” – not care, and the constant need for communication. Peterbalds are not suitable for those who are looking for a calm and independent cat. But they are ideal for families who are ready to give warmth, cuddles and time. These cats don’t live “next door” – they live with you, in every sense.