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Hairless Cat Breeds

Hairless and almost hairless cats are striking, affectionate and need more care than most. Their skin needs looking after, they feel the cold, and none of them is hypoallergenic.

  1. Cartoon of a Sphynx cat

    1. Sphynx

    The best-known hairless cat: warm, wrinkly and very sociable.

    Medium · Usually 8 to 14 years

    Read the Sphynx guide →
  2. Cartoon of a Peterbald cat

    2. Peterbald

    A slim Russian cat whose coat ranges from bald to normal.

    Small to medium · Often 12 to 15 years

    Read the Peterbald guide →
  3. Cartoon of a Lykoi cat

    3. Lykoi

    Not hairless, but a sparse roan coat that can moult to almost bare.

    Small to medium · Not well established, as the breed is very young

    Read the Lykoi guide →
  4. Cartoon of a Devon Rex cat

    4. Devon Rex

    Not bald, but a fine, wavy coat that often looks thin.

    Small to medium · Often 12 to 15 years

    Read the Devon Rex guide →

Breed is only part of the story: every cat is an individual, and most cats in the UK are moggies. Meet the cat before you decide, and think about rescue cats too. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.

Questions people ask

Are hairless cats hypoallergenic?

No. Cat allergens come from saliva and skin as well as fur, so hairless cats can still cause allergies.

Do hairless cats get cold?

Yes. They need a warm home, cosy bedding and often a heated bed.

Do hairless cats need baths?

Often, because skin oils build up without fur to absorb them. Ask your vet or breeder how often.