Donskoy cat

The Donskoy cat, also known as the Don Sphynx, is a distinctive breed of domestic cat known for its hairless appearance. Originating in Russia, the Donskoy is recognized for its unique genetic mutation that results in a lack of fur, setting it apart from other hairless breeds such as the Sphynx cat.

History

The Donskoy cat's history began in 1987 in the city of Rostov-on-Don, Russia, when a local woman named Elena Kovaleva discovered a hairless kitten. This kitten, named Varvara, was the progenitor of the Donskoy breed. Unlike the Sphynx cat, which is hairless due to a recessive gene, the Donskoy's hairlessness is caused by a dominant gene. This genetic distinction was identified by cat breeder Irina Nemikina, who began a breeding program to establish the Donskoy as a recognized breed.

Physical Characteristics

The Donskoy cat is medium-sized with a muscular build. Its most notable feature is its hairless skin, which can feel warm and soft to the touch. The skin may have a wrinkled appearance, particularly around the face and neck. Donskoys can come in a variety of skin colors and patterns, including solid, tabby, and tortoiseshell.

Coat and Skin

While the Donskoy is primarily hairless, some individuals may have a fine down or a "flocked" coat, which can vary with the seasons. The skin requires regular care to prevent oil buildup and to protect against sunburn.

Head and Face

The Donskoy has a wedge-shaped head with prominent cheekbones and large, almond-shaped eyes. The ears are large and set high on the head, contributing to the breed's alert and inquisitive expression.

Temperament

Donskoy cats are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They are highly social animals that enjoy human companionship and are often described as dog-like in their loyalty and playfulness. Donskoys are intelligent and curious, making them engaging pets that thrive in interactive environments.

Health and Care

The Donskoy is generally a healthy breed, but its hairless nature requires specific care. Regular bathing is necessary to remove excess oils from the skin. Owners should also be mindful of temperature regulation, as Donskoys can be sensitive to extreme temperatures due to their lack of fur.

Breeding and Genetics

The Donskoy's hairlessness is due to a dominant genetic mutation, which means that only one copy of the gene is needed for a kitten to be hairless. This is in contrast to the Sphynx cat, where two copies of a recessive gene are required. Breeders must carefully manage breeding programs to maintain genetic diversity and health within the breed.

Recognition

The Donskoy is recognized by several cat registries, including the World Cat Federation (WCF) and The International Cat Association (TICA). It is not yet recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA).

Also see

• Sphynx cat
• Peterbald
• Hairless cat breeds
• Cat genetics