Peterbald

Russia · 1994

Sleek, mostly hairless, devoted and talkative

SizeMedium6–10 lb
Life span12–15 years
CoatHairless to short
Typical price$1,500–$3,000

Peterbalds come from St. Petersburg, Russia, from Donskoy and Oriental crosses. They have an elegant, slim body, big ears and a coat that ranges from fully bald to short brush — and it can change during the first two years.

At a glance

EnergyActive
Cuddlylikes touch and being heldLap & hugs
TalkativeChatty
GroomingRegular
SheddingAlmost none
With kidsGood
With petsGood
Alone timehow long they’re happy aloneNeeds company

Life with a Peterbald

Expect an Oriental-style personality: very affectionate, vocal and curious. They follow you around and want warmth and company.

Great for
  • People who are home a lot
  • People who want an affectionate, vocal cat
Think twice if
  • Long days alone
  • You’re not ready for regular skin care
  • You need a guaranteed coat type — a kitten’s adult coat isn’t certain

Often suggested for people with allergies — but no cat is allergy-free. All cats make the main allergen (Fel d 1), and the amount varies from cat to cat. Spend an hour or more with the kitten and its parents before you pay.

Care tips
  • Bathe or wipe the skin weekly; clean the ears.
  • Keep them warm and out of strong sun.
  • Daily play.

Health

Generally healthy. Like other hairless cats, they are prone to skin problems and sunburn and feel the cold.

Ask the breeder for
  • Parents’ vet records
  • Heart scan (echocardiogram) of the parents
Typical US price$1,500–$3,000
RegistriesTICATICA only — ask for papers

Prices are rough ranges from registered breeders and vary by line, color and region. A much cheaper “purebred” kitten is a common scam sign.

See Peterbald kittens

Similar breeds

SphynxActive · Very cuddlyOrientalVery active · CuddlyDevon RexActive · Very cuddly
Compare with similar breeds

Sources: breed standards and profiles from CFA and TICA, DNA tests listed by the UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, and veterinary breed profiles.