A long, slim and muscular cat with an Oriental-style outline, only a little sturdier. The coat can be anything from completely bare, through a peach-fuzz or suede-like feel and soft down, to a wiry brush coat or a normal straight coat, and it may change over the first two years of life.124
Coloursall colours and patterns, including pointed12
Personality what they are like
A warm, sociable and devoted cat that likes to stay close to its people, often following them around and chatting along. It usually welcomes visitors and mixes well with children, dogs and other cats.143
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Moderate to high. Athletic and playful, with acrobatic bursts during play, but also content to shadow its owner around the house.143
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Bare-skinned cats need regular baths (weekly to every other week) or wiping to remove natural skin oils. Coated types need a weekly comb or a rub with a chamois or glove. Regular nail trims, ear cleaning and tooth brushing are part of the routine.143
Home where they are happiest
Best kept indoors; bare cats should be protected from strong sun and appreciate warmth.3
Food basics what goes in the bowl
Has a fast metabolism and eats more than a fully coated cat of the same size; some owners feed several smaller meals a day.13
Company who they like around
Very people-oriented and does not like being left alone for long periods.43
The story where it all began
In St. Petersburg in the early 1990s, Russian felinologist Olga Mironova mated a Don Sphynx male, Afinogen Myth, with an Oriental Shorthair champion, Radma von Jagerhof. Their first litters produced four foundation kittens, and one of them, Nocturne iz Murino, became the breed's key stud cat.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
A Peterbald's coat can change over the first two years: a bare kitten may grow fuzz and a fuzzy kitten may lose it.1
2
Its long, oval paws with webbed toes let it grip objects, and some even open lever door handles.2
3
Whiskers can be curled, crinkled or almost missing.3
4
Peterbalds with a normal straight coat are part of the breed but cannot compete for championships in TICA.1
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The Peterbald breed was created in St. Petersburg, Russia, in 1994, and its name combines 'Peter' (from St. Petersburg) with 'bald', referring to its hairless appearance.5
I wake up and stretch my long, warm body across the sunbeam on the floor. My human is making coffee, so I trot over and chirp a good morning. I follow them from room to room, chatting about nothing and everything. When a visitor arrives, I rub against their ankles in welcome. Later, I leap onto the cat tree for a few acrobatic spins, then curl up on the sofa, purring as my human reads. In the evening, I shadow them to bed, kneading the blanket before settling down. It’s a perfect, ordinary day.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Accepted August 2008; championship status from May 20092
The care rhythm a typical week and year
A typical home-care rhythm for a Peterbald. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BathSkin oils build up without fur to absorb themevery 2 weeks
Ear checkClean waxy ears gentlyevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayDaily playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Peterbald tip
Peterbalds have a fast metabolism and may need more calories than a coated cat of the same size, but portion control still matters to avoid weight gain. Choose treats that support dental health and avoid common allergens like beef, dairy, and grains if your cat has sensitivities.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Peterbald, and at what times?
Feed your Peterbald several smaller meals each day due to its fast metabolism. Times can be flexible, but aim for consistency. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.13
What should a Peterbald eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a balanced, high-quality cat food; your vet can recommend the best brand. Avoid dangerous foods such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and xylitol. Never give raw meat, eggs, or bones.6
Does a Peterbald need baths?
Yes, bare-skinned Peterbalds need regular baths, about every one to two weeks, to remove skin oils. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 14 days.143Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Peterbald need brushing?
If your Peterbald has a coat, brush it weekly with a comb or soft glove. Hairless types don't need brushing, but regular baths or wiping are essential.1437
How do I trim a Peterbald's claws, and how often?
Trim your Peterbald's claws every two to three weeks. Furry Diary's plan suggests every 21 days. Use cat nail clippers and trim just the tip; go slowly and reward calm behavior.1437Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Peterbald need?
Your Peterbald needs daily play sessions to burn off energy. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes of interactive play, like chasing toys or climbing.143Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Peterbald's teeth and ears?
Brush your Peterbald's teeth daily if possible; Furry Diary suggests every two days. Check ears weekly and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution.143Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Peterbald live?
Lifespan varies by individual and care. Ask your vet for a more specific estimate based on your cat's health.
Is a Peterbald good with children and other pets?
Yes, Peterbalds are very sociable and usually get along well with children, dogs, and other cats. Always supervise early interactions.143
Can a Peterbald be left alone?
Peterbalds dislike being left alone for long periods. They thrive with company, so consider a pet sitter or another pet if you're away often.43
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Donskoy
Sphynx
Oriental Shorthair