Bambino Cat Breed Information

Group

Hairless

Weight

2-3 kg

Length

17-20 cm

Lifespan

9-12 years

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About the Bambino Cat

Reviewed by:

Dr. Julia Brassel

Veterinarian

Are you looking for a cat that stands out and stands short of the crowd? Then the Bambino Cat could be the perfect, pint-sized addition for feline lovers who are keen to go baldly where not many have gone before.

A cross between the Hairless Sphynx and the Short-legged Munchkin Cat, such as the recent emergence of the mixed breed Bambino that, in truth, very little is known about them outside of professional cat-lover circles.

So, let’s take a look at what makes these disrobed delights so special… and yet so controversial.

What Is the History & Origin of the Bambino Cat?

First bred in 2005 in Toronto, Canada, the Bambino (which means “baby” in Italian) is notable for its characteristic short legs and hairless appearance. Thanks to these cutesy-but-curious looks, the Bambino has become increasingly popular amongst fans of pocket-sized nude felines.

But why is it regarded as controversial?

Well, as the Cat Fanciers Association will tell you, the controversy lies in the concern for the breed’s potentially increased chance of developing health problems. Moreover, the deliberate breeding of genetic deformities, such as the dominant short-legged gene typical of the Bambino, divides many and is frowned upon by most.

As a result, the Bambino cat breed has been described as being an “experimental breed” by The International Cat Association, and active breeding is discouraged. Yet still, its popularity continued to grow amongst lovers of hairless felines.

What Is a Bambino Cat Breed?

The Bambino Cat breed is a small, hairless mixed breed cat bred from Sphynx and Munchkin stock.

Who Is a Bambino Cat Best For?

Bambino Cats are social, energetic and, at times, even mischievous. As such, they’re best suited to homes that can provide a lot of stimulation, attention and affection. Similarly, they’re also a great fit for families with more mature children as, while they’re full of life, their diminutive stature does leave them at risk if troubled by rough young hands.

Additionally, due to its social nature, the Bambino Cat breed isn’t suited to be left alone for extended periods of time. So, if you work from home or have someone in the house the majority of the time, this tiny, hairless handful will fit right in.

Finally, due to the Bambino’s lack of fur, it’s also one of a handful of breeds considered to be largely hypoallergenic, largely being the keyword. The Bambino does actually have a light sprinkling of down fur, so it isn’t definitively a hypoallergenic cat.

However, because the cat doesn’t shed and has so little fur to begin with, it might be worth a test for those who suffer from allergies; it might just be the cute cat of your dreams.

What Does a Bambino Cat Look Like?

As we’ve discussed, the Bambino is, of course, a hairless cat thanks to the recessive hairless gene it inherits from its Sphynx stock.

Colours

Despite having no fur, the Bambino still does present in several different colours; light cream, white or a darker grey/black. Within those parameters, the colour gradient can vary greatly.

Patterns

Just like its colouring, the pattern of a Bambino’s coat can vary greatly too. With that in mind, some Bambinos do present with fur on their head while retaining their characteristic hairless body. However, in truth, the volume, colour and pattern of fur are entirely subjective to each little Bambino.

Bambino Cat Grooming & Shedding

Despite being a hairless breed, the Bambino does still require grooming and coat maintenance. In fact, their coat requires even more attention than most other domestic cats precisely because of its hairless nature.

That is to say; they are more susceptible to sunburn when outside and more likely to snag or injure their exposed skin. So, cat-safe sunscreen is a must when allowed outside. Likewise, their nude skin produces more oil than other cats, and so Bambinos require regular bathing (which they may not thank you for) to keep those folds clean.

Happily, however, unlike many other cat breeds, shedding is of little concern.

How Do Bambino Cats Behave? A Look at Their Temperament and Personality

Despite its stunted legs, the Bambino cat is an incredibly agile, energetic cat and will get along famously with families and even other pets. Therein, they require regular stimulation, and so a selection of toys and tools, like a scratching post, should be used to keep these mischievous pets on their best behaviour.

Once the fun is over, however, the breed’s social nature means owners can expect regular cuddling sessions on the sofa. So, warn those who might be squeamish – hairless snuggles will occur!

Living Needs

As we discussed above, the Bambino is a diminutive yet energetic and sociable cat, and its living requirements should reflect this. Moreover, regular bathing is required to keep its sensitive nude skin in peak condition, and a coat will be required in winter to stay warm.

With regards to stimulation, toys and cat trees, the Bambino is unable to jump as high or far as its larger brethren, thanks to its mini Munchkin legs. So, ensure any enrichment items you buy are built to scale.

Finally, a gentle touch is all a Bambino needs, so these tiny cats are best kept away from the rough and tumble of child’s play and, indeed, other, less delicate house pets.

What Are Common Habits and Activity Levels of Bambino Cats?

Habits

Affectionate, energetic and agile, the Bambino’s habits revolve around those who it lives with, particularly if it is kept as a house cat. As such, regular play and snuggle time are a feature of this bald beauty’s daily routine.

Activity level

As we’ve mentioned, the Bambino is surprisingly active and agile for its diminutive stature. Thus, plenty of toys and attention are required to keep them content. However, due to their affectionate nature, your Bambino will happily spend time on the sofa once playtime is over.

Vocalness

The Bambino is a very vociferous cat, a characteristic also typical of its genetic parent, the Sphynx. Don’t fear, though; the vast majority of the time, Bambino vocalisation simply implies a craving for attention or food.

So, don’t forget to feed your Bambino – if you do, you’ll hear about it!

What Is the Weight, Height, and Size of a Bambino Cat?

Height

An adult Bambino Cat tends to reach a height of about 17-20cm.

Weight

Male Bambinos will weigh between 2-4kg, while females will range between 2-3kg.

Size

The size or length of a Bambino will fall between 30-45cm.

Are Bambino Cats Easy to Train?

Bambinos are moderately intelligent cats and, thus, respond fantastically well to positive reinforcement. As a result, processes such as first litter training tend to be fleeting for Bambino kittens and, what’s more, due to the close bond they form with their family, they can even pick up tricks!

Does the Bambino Cat Have Any Common Health Issues?

The Cat Fanciers Association and the International Cat Association recognise the Bambino as an experimental new breed because of its recent emergence and the potential health issues it carries. As such, prospective owners should keep in mind that their cat could develop:

Bacterial skin conditions (yeast infections and other skin problems)
Lordosis (excessive spine curvature found in most cat breeds but exacerbated in the Bambino)
Pectus Excavatum (the breast bone caves inward on itself)

What Is the Lifespan of a Bambino Cat?

Despite their potential inherent health issues, a healthy Bambino’s life expectancy registers at about 12 years.

How Much Does a Bambino Cat Need to Be Fed?

Like all cats, the Bambino needs to be fed a diet of quality, high-protein cat food provided by your vet or all good pet stores.

How Much Can You Expect to Pay for a Bambino Cat in Australia?

Due to their rarity, in Australia, Bambinos tend to be marketed for between $1,800-$3,000.

Bambino Cat FAQs

Are Bambino cats cuddly?

Despite being almost entirely hairless, the Bambino has an incredibly cuddly personality. As such, owners can expect to be followed around the house to enjoy snuggles on the sofa and even host their cat on their shoulders as they go about their daily business.

What is the difference between a Sphynx and a Bambino?

The Sphynx is a much older, larger breed of fur-free cat that lends its genes, along with the Munchkin Cat, to the Bambino. As such, the Bambino is a mixed bred cat, while the Sphynx is a pure-bred cat.

Are Bambino cats hypoallergenic?

Despite being considered hairless, the Bambino does have a soft layer of down fur. As such, it cannot be definitively cited as hypoallergenic. However, due to the sparsity of its fur and low to zero level of shedding, it may be suitable for people with allergies.