The Dwelf is a distinctive breed of cat, characterized by its small, stocky build and striking features that reveal its Sphynx ancestry. These felines boast large, slightly curled ears, short muzzles, and prominent cheekbones, giving them a unique and captivating appearance. Their athletic bodies are complemented by short necks, enhancing their sturdy, compact look. Notably, their front legs may display a slight bow, while their oval paws feature prominent knuckles, adding to their charm. The hind legs of Dwelf cats are notably longer, contributing to a distinctive upward slope in their backs. The whip-like tail, tapering to a pointed tip, completes their elegant silhouette.
While Dwelf cats are predominantly hairless, some may possess a delicate covering of fine, short, downy hair. The absence of fur allows their coveted wrinkles on the legs, shoulders, and forehead to stand out prominently. Notably, the shapes, patterns, and distribution of these wrinkles can vary among individuals, adding to the unique appeal of each cat. Dwelf cats typically exhibit a natural skin color, such as suede, pink, or black, with the possibility of darker markings adding further visual interest to their appearance.
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Dwelf cat
Dwelf cat
Description
Appearance
Origin
Temperament
English
Dwelf cat
The Dwelf is a distinctive domestic dwarf cat breed that was developed in the United States. This unique feline is a blend of Sphynx, Munchkin, and American Curl ancestry, resulting in a combination of their standout characteristics like hairlessness, shortened legs, and curled ears.
Size
weight
1.8-3
4-6.6
kglbs
kg lbs
Recognized by:
1 registers
Appearance
Coat type
Body type
Ears
Fur length
Tail
Size
Origin
Limited information is available about the origin of the Dwelf breed. Originating in the United States within the last two decades, it is believed to have emerged shortly after the development of the Bambino breed, a close relative resulting from a Munchkin and Sphynx cross. The Dwelf was meticulously crafted through the strategic crossbreeding of three distinct cat breeds: the Sphynx, Munchkin, and American Curl. It is through this careful selection that the Dwelf embodies its unique characteristics—its diminutive stature and distinctive curled ears, reflected in its name, a fusion of "dwarf" and "elf." Initially acknowledged by the now-defunct Dwarf Cat Association, the Dwelf breed gained further recognition with its inclusion in the Rare and Exotic Feline Registry.
Parent animals
Breed origin
Parent breeds
Origin countries
Temperament
Dwelf cats are commonly known for their dog-like characteristics, which make them unique among feline companions. Their high level of intelligence and sociable nature enable them to form strong bonds with their owners, requiring constant company. This breed's compatibility with children and ability to interact with other pets, including dogs, makes them a perfect addition to family households. Additionally, their playful and inquisitive demeanor leads them to explore various environments, often engaging in mischievous antics such as climbing tall objects and exploring every nook and cranny of the home.
Keeping conditions
Diet preferences
Grooming
Common health issues
Dwelf cats, being a hairless breed, have a unique dietary requirement which involves a high-calorie intake essential for regulating their body temperature in the absence of fur. Due to their high metabolism, it is crucial to ensure they are adequately fed without overdoing it. In addition to a balanced diet, it is important to provide them with constant access to fresh water to ensure they receive the necessary nourishment.
Similar to other hairless breeds, Dwelf cats require regular bathing to prevent the buildup of oils on their skin, which can result in a waxy coating. When bathing your hairless cat, it is crucial to thoroughly dry the wrinkles to prevent moisture retention. However, it is advisable to avoid using a hairdryer as its heat can harm the cat's delicate skin. Additionally, maintaining clean ears and trimmed nails is essential for the well-being of a Dwelf cat. Establishing a routine for brushing their teeth is also vital for their dental health.
Since Dwelf cats lack fur to shield them from the sun's rays, they are prone to sunburn if exposed for prolonged periods. Applying sunscreen to their skin and restricting sun exposure are necessary precautions. Furthermore, these cats are sensitive to cold weather, so it is important to ensure they remain warm and comfortable during the winter months.
Grooming intencity:
Requires lots of grooming
At present, Dwelf cats are generally considered a robust breed, despite being relatively new. Despite their overall health, there remains a lack of comprehensive knowledge regarding their well-being. Owners of this unique breed should remain vigilant for potential health issues that may arise, such as skin conditions due to their hairless nature, susceptibility to ear infections, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, degenerative joint disease, pectus excavatum, and lordosis. Notably, many of these conditions are inherited from the breeds used to develop the Dwelf. Should any worrisome symptoms manifest, prompt consultation with a veterinarian is highly recommended.
See in Lists
Semi-foreign
Body type
Solid
Coat type
Tabby
Coat type
Bicolor
Coat type
Tricolor
Coat type
Classic tabby
Coat type
Curled ears
Ears
Hairless
Fur length
USA
Country
Long
Tail
Dwarf
Size
CFSA
Recognized by
Friendly toward other pets
Behavior
Loyal to owner
Behavior
Friendly toward humans
Behavior
Requires lots of grooming
Grooming intencity
Crossbreed
Breed origin
non-hypoallergenic
Hypoallergenic