Peterbald
Breed Description

The Peterbald takes its name from St. Petersburg, Russia, where the breed was developed in 1994. The name combines "Peter" (from St. Petersburg, itself named after Tsar Peter the Great) with "bald," directly referencing the breed's most distinctive characteristic—its hairlessness or minimal coat. This straightforward naming convention clearly identifies both the breed's origin and its defining physical trait, making it memorable and descriptive.

The breed has no widely recognized alternate names, though it may occasionally be referred to as the "Petersburg Sphynx" or "Russian Hairless Cat" in informal contexts. Some discussions about the breed use descriptive phrases like "hairless Oriental" or "Russian hairless" to distinguish it from other hairless breeds, particularly the Sphynx, which has a different body type and origin. Within Russia, the breed may be called "Петерболд" (Peterbold) using Cyrillic spelling, though the pronunciation remains essentially the same.

The Peterbald was developed by Russian felinologist Olga S. Mironova in St. Petersburg through a deliberate breeding program beginning in 1994. Mironova crossed a Donskoy (also known as Don Sphynx, another Russian hairless breed) named Afinguen Myth with an Oriental Shorthair female named Radma von Jagerhof. This carefully planned breeding combined the hairlessness gene from the Donskoy with the elegant, svelte body type of the Oriental Shorthair, creating a new breed with distinctive characteristics differing from both parent breeds and from the Canadian Sphynx.

The International Cat Association (TICA) granted the Peterbald championship status in 2005, providing international recognition and establishing breed standards. Some other registries including the World Cat Federation (WCF) and Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) have also recognized the breed. However, the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and some other major North American registries have not yet granted recognition. The breed remains relatively rare even in Russia, with limited populations in Europe and North America.

Despite its Russian origins and relatively short history, the Peterbald name has remained consistent internationally without developing regional variations or multiple alternate names. The breed maintains clear identity through its distinctive combination of hairlessness and Oriental body type, distinguishing it from other hairless breeds. Today, dedicated breeders work to preserve and promote the Peterbald while maintaining its unique characteristics and expanding awareness of this remarkable Russian breed beyond its homeland.

The Peterbald presents a sophisticated, elegant appearance combining the svelte Oriental body type with varying degrees of hairlessness. These medium-sized cats typically weigh between 7-14 pounds, with males generally larger than females. Their bodies are long, tubular, and graceful without bulk, showcasing the refined structure characteristic of Oriental breeds. The overall impression is one of sophisticated elegance—a cat that moves with fluid grace and athletic capability.

The body structure follows classic Oriental type: long, lean, and tubular with fine bones and strong, well-defined muscles. The body is firm and muscular despite appearing delicate, with shoulders and hips continuing the same sleek line creating a tubular silhouette. The abdomen is tight without excess fat. Legs are long, slim, and well-muscled, with hind legs slightly longer than front legs, contributing to their impressive jumping ability and elegant stance. The paws are oval and dainty, proportionate to the legs. The tail is long, thin, and tapering—whip-like—carried gracefully and used expressively.

The head is a long, narrow wedge starting at the nose and flaring out in straight lines to the tips of the ears, forming a triangle when viewed from the front. The profile is straight from the top of the head to the tip of the nose without a break, creating an uninterrupted line. The muzzle is fine and follows the triangular wedge shape without whisker breaks. The skull is flat between the ears. This distinctive head shape is characteristic of Oriental breeds and distinguishes the Peterbald from rounder-headed hairless breeds like the Sphynx.

The ears are remarkably large—often described as "bat-like"—pointed and wide at the base, continuing the lines of the wedge-shaped head. They're set to follow the angle of the wedge, creating a dramatic, alert appearance. The eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped, and slanted toward the nose in harmony with the wedge head lines. Eye color can be blue, green, or any shade, with vivid colors particularly prized. The combination of large ears, slanted eyes, and wedge head creates an exotic, sophisticated appearance.

The coat is the Peterbald's most variable feature. Unlike the Sphynx, which has a single hairless type, Peterbalds come in several coat varieties ranging from completely bald to short-coated. The coat types include: "Bald" (completely hairless with sticky, rubber-like skin), "Chamois" or "Flock" (80-90% hairless with a slight velvet texture up to 1mm), "Velour" (short, fine coat up to 3mm that may disappear with age), "Brush" (wiry, crimped coat up to 5mm), and "Straight" (normal short coat). Many Peterbalds born with hair gradually lose it over their first two years, though some retain their coats throughout life. The degree of hairlessness doesn't affect show quality as long as the cat fits breed standards.

The skin or minimal coat displays all possible colors and patterns—solid colors, tabby patterns, pointed patterns, tortoiseshell, and any combination. These patterns are visible directly on the skin, creating unique visual effects. The skin feels warm to the touch, often several degrees warmer than furred cats, and may be wrinkled particularly around the shoulders, between the ears, and around the muzzle. The overall appearance combines exotic hairlessness or minimal coat with refined Oriental elegance, creating striking, unforgettable cats.

The Peterbald's history is relatively short, beginning in 1994 in St. Petersburg, Russia, when felinologist Olga S. Mironova embarked on an experimental breeding program. Mironova's goal was to create a hairless cat with the elegant, refined body type of the Oriental Shorthair rather than the cobby build of the Canadian Sphynx. She recognized that Russia already had a hairless breed—the Donskoy (Don Sphynx)—discovered in Rostov-on-Don in 1987, whose hairlessness resulted from a different genetic mutation than the Canadian Sphynx.

In 1994, Mironova made the founding cross that would establish the Peterbald breed: a male Donskoy named Afinguen Myth was bred to an Oriental Shorthair female named Radma von Jagerhof. This deliberate pairing combined the dominant hairlessness gene from the Donskoy with the sleek, svelte body type and elegant features of the Oriental Shorthair. The resulting kittens displayed the desired combination of characteristics—hairlessness or minimal coat with Oriental body structure. These first-generation kittens became the foundation of the Peterbald breed.

The Donskoy's hairlessness gene differs significantly from that of the Canadian Sphynx. The Donskoy carries a dominant mutation, meaning only one copy of the gene is needed to produce hairlessness, whereas the Sphynx hairlessness is recessive, requiring two copies. This dominant gene creates the variety of coat types seen in Peterbalds—from completely bald to brush coat—and explains why many Peterbalds born with hair gradually lose it over time. The genetic difference also means Peterbalds and Sphynx cannot be crossed to maintain pure breeding lines.

Early breeding programs in St. Petersburg expanded the gene pool carefully by crossing Peterbalds with Oriental Shorthairs, Siamese, and Balinese cats to maintain the Oriental type while developing the hairless characteristic. These outcrosses helped establish consistent body type, ensure genetic diversity, and avoid the health problems that can arise from limited gene pools. Russian breeders worked diligently to refine the breed, establishing standards that emphasized both the Oriental elegance and the unique coat variations.

In 1996, just two years after the breed's creation, the Peterbald was officially recognized by the Selectional Feline Federation (SFF) in Russia, providing domestic recognition and breeding standards. International recognition followed in 1997 when The International Cat Association (TICA) accepted the Peterbald into its New Breed program. In 2005, TICA granted the breed full championship status, allowing Peterbalds to compete for titles and awards in cat shows. This relatively rapid recognition reflected the breed's distinctive characteristics and responsible breeding practices.

Other international registries also recognized the Peterbald. The World Cat Federation (WCF) and Fédération Internationale Féline (FIFé) have granted recognition, helping establish the breed internationally. However, the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) and some other major North American registries have not yet recognized the breed, limiting its presence in certain show circuits and geographical regions.

The Peterbald has remained relatively rare throughout its history. Even in Russia, breeding populations are limited, and the breed is uncommon outside major cities. International populations exist in Europe, particularly Eastern Europe, and small numbers of breeders operate in North America. The breed faces challenges including limited gene pool, the complexity of managing coat type variations, and competition from the more established Sphynx breed in markets outside Russia.

Today, dedicated breeders continue developing the Peterbald while maintaining its unique characteristics. They work to expand genetic diversity through careful outcrossing, preserve the elegant Oriental body type, and promote awareness of the breed internationally. The Peterbald represents a significant contribution from Russian cat fancy, demonstrating innovative breeding practices and adding diversity to hairless cat breeds. While remaining rare, the breed has established itself as a distinctive alternative to other hairless cats, appreciated by enthusiasts who value its unique combination of Oriental elegance and Russian hairless heritage.

The Peterbald's temperament combines the best personality traits of both parent breeds—the affectionate, people-oriented nature of hairless cats with the intelligent, active, vocal personality of Oriental breeds. These cats are renowned for their intense devotion to their families, displaying dog-like attachment and wanting to be involved in every aspect of their owners' lives. Their temperament makes them ideal for people seeking extremely interactive, social companions rather than independent pets.

Affection is the cornerstone of the Peterbald personality. These cats don't just enjoy human companionship—they require it. Peterbalds follow their favorite humans from room to room, supervise all activities, and demand to be involved in everything their people do. They're quintessential lap cats who will drape themselves across shoulders, burrow under blankets, or simply plaster themselves against warm bodies at every opportunity. Their bare skin makes them particularly appealing cuddling companions, feeling like warm, soft, living hot water bottles. This intense need for closeness means Peterbalds don't do well when left alone for extended periods and may develop separation anxiety without adequate companionship.

Vocalization is a prominent Peterbald trait inherited from their Oriental ancestry. These cats are talkative, possessing varied vocabulary and the willingness to use it frequently. They communicate through meows, chirps, trills, and distinctive yowls, each with meanings their owners learn to interpret. Peterbalds have opinions about everything—your schedule, what you're eating, where you're going, why you're not paying attention to them—and they share these opinions freely and persistently. Their voices can be quite loud when they're demanding something or expressing displeasure. This constant communication is endearing to enthusiasts but can be overwhelming for people unprepared for such a chatty companion.

Intelligence is another hallmark of the breed. Peterbalds are remarkably clever, inheriting the problem-solving abilities and quick learning characteristic of Oriental breeds. They figure out how to open doors, cabinets, or any mechanism that interests them. They learn tricks quickly, can master complex behaviors, and often outsmart their owners' attempts at cat-proofing. This intelligence requires mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training sessions, and environmental enrichment. Bored Peterbalds become destructive, using their considerable cognitive abilities for mischief. Many owners successfully teach their Peterbalds to walk on leashes, perform tricks, or navigate agility courses.

Energy and playfulness characterize much of the Peterbald's daily routine. These are highly active cats who race through homes, climb to the highest points available, leap impressive distances, and engage in acrobatic play sessions. Their athletic Oriental build supports their energetic lifestyle, and they need substantial daily exercise through interactive play. Feather wands, laser pointers (always ending with a catchable toy), and fetch games appeal to their hunting instincts. Many Peterbalds enjoy water play, batting at dripping faucets or playing in water bowls—their lack of fur means they dry quickly, making water activities more appealing than to furred cats.

Socially, Peterbalds are exceptionally outgoing and friendly. They typically welcome strangers with curiosity rather than hiding, often greeting visitors at the door. This friendliness extends to other pets—Peterbalds usually excel with other cats, particularly active breeds who match their energy, and often befriend dogs when properly introduced. Their social nature and desire for companionship mean they genuinely benefit from having other pet companions, especially if left alone during work hours. Many Peterbalds seek out other hairless cats or warm-bodied animals to cuddle with, creating endearing multi-species friendships.

Temperature-seeking behavior is notable in Peterbalds. Without fur for insulation, they constantly seek warmth—sunny spots, heating vents, warm laps, under blankets, or against other pets or humans. This warmth-seeking isn't just preference but necessity, as they lose body heat more quickly than furred cats. Owners often find their Peterbalds burrowed deep under covers, pressed against them at night, or draped across laptops and other heat-generating electronics.

Overall, the Peterbald temperament—intensely affectionate, vocal, intelligent, energetic, and demanding—creates companions who become the absolute center of their families' lives. They require substantial time, attention, and interaction from owners willing to embrace their intensity. For people who want a cat that acts more like a devoted dog, constantly seeks interaction, and provides endless entertainment and companionship, the Peterbald is ideal. However, they're not suited for those seeking independent, quiet, or low-maintenance pets.

Caring for a Peterbald cat requires more attention and specialized knowledge than many other breeds due to their unique combination of hairlessness and high-energy Oriental temperament. While they're not overly difficult to maintain, potential owners should understand the specific needs that come with active, hairless cats. Proper care ensures your Peterbald remains healthy, comfortable, and emotionally satisfied throughout their life.

Temperature regulation is absolutely critical for Peterbald care. Without protective fur, these cats feel cold more easily than their furred counterparts. Maintain home temperatures between 72-80°F (22-27°C) year-round. Provide multiple warm sleeping options including heated cat beds with safe, low-voltage heating elements, soft blankets in sunny spots, and cozy enclosed spaces away from drafts. Many Peterbalds enjoy wearing cat sweaters or shirts, which most tolerate well when introduced gradually. Never leave your Peterbald outdoors in cool weather, even briefly, and monitor indoor temperatures carefully during winter months. Air conditioning should be used cautiously in summer—while Peterbalds handle heat better than cold, they can still feel chilled in heavily air-conditioned spaces.

Sun protection is equally important. Peterbald skin can sunburn just like human skin. Keep your cat out of direct, intense sunlight, especially during peak hours. If your Peterbald enjoys window sitting, ensure they're not exposed to concentrated sunlight for extended periods. Consider UV-filtering window films for areas where your cat likes to perch. Some veterinarians recommend pet-safe sunscreen for unavoidable sun exposure, though prevention is preferable. Light-skinned Peterbalds are particularly vulnerable to sunburn.

Bathing is essential for Peterbalds, required weekly or biweekly depending on the individual cat. Their skin produces natural oils that, without fur to absorb them, accumulate and cause various issues if not removed. Use lukewarm water and gentle, moisturizing cat-specific shampoo—products designed for hairless cats work best. Pay special attention to areas where oils accumulate: between wrinkles, around ears, between toes, and under the chin. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue, as leftover shampoo causes skin irritation. Dry completely after bathing with soft towels, ensuring no moisture remains in skin folds. Many Peterbalds enjoy bath time when introduced properly, and some will purr throughout their bath.

Ear cleaning is crucial for Peterbalds, who produce more ear wax than furred cats. Clean ears weekly using veterinary-approved ear cleaning solution and cotton balls, gently wiping visible parts of the ear canal. Never insert anything deep into the ear canal. Monitor for excessive wax, odor, or redness indicating infection. The breed's large ears require regular attention to prevent problems.

Nail trimming should occur every 2-3 weeks, as Peterbalds' nails can accumulate oil and debris more noticeably than furred cats. Dental care is essential—brush teeth several times weekly using cat-specific toothpaste to prevent periodontal disease.

Environmental enrichment is absolutely essential for these highly intelligent, energetic cats. Provide tall cat trees reaching ceiling height, wall-mounted shelves creating aerial highways, window perches for observing outdoor activity, and multiple hiding spots. Peterbalds are exceptional climbers who use vertical space extensively. Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest, offering interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and various play objects.

Daily interactive play sessions are non-negotiable. Peterbalds need at least 30-60 minutes of vigorous play daily, split into multiple sessions. Their high energy requires substantial outlets to prevent destructive behaviors. Training provides mental enrichment—Peterbalds respond excellently to positive reinforcement training, quickly learning tricks and commands. Clicker training works particularly well.

Litter box maintenance is important—scoop daily and change litter weekly. Peterbalds appreciate clean facilities and may vocally complain about dirty boxes. Regular veterinary check-ups maintain optimal health. Indoor living is strongly recommended to protect from temperature extremes, predators, diseases, and other outdoor dangers.

Feeding a Peterbald cat requires understanding their unique metabolic needs resulting from their lack of coat and high-energy Oriental temperament. Like all hairless cats, Peterbalds have higher body temperatures than furred cats and consequently require more calories to maintain body heat and support their active lifestyle. Proper nutrition ensures your Peterbald maintains optimal health and ideal body condition throughout their life.

Peterbalds typically require 20-30% more calories than similarly sized furred cats due to their increased metabolic rate. An adult Peterbald generally needs 250-400 calories daily depending on their individual size, activity level, and metabolism. This increased caloric need means they often eat more frequently and in larger portions than you might expect for their size. Many Peterbald owners find their cats are constantly hungry, and free-feeding or multiple small meals throughout the day often works better than restrictive meal schedules.

Choose high-quality cat food with premium animal protein as the primary ingredient. Look for foods with at least 35-45% protein content on a dry matter basis and 15-20% fat. Protein supports their lean, muscular Oriental build, while fat provides concentrated calories and energy. Both wet and dry food work well for Peterbalds, though many experts recommend a combination. Wet food provides additional hydration and typically offers higher protein and fat content with fewer carbohydrates. Some Peterbalds benefit from kitten food even as adults due to its higher caloric density, though consult your veterinarian before making this choice.

Kittens have even more demanding nutritional requirements. Young Peterbalds need kitten-specific food with higher protein, fat, and caloric content supporting rapid growth and development. Feed kittens 4-5 small meals daily until six months of age, then gradually transition to adult feeding schedules. Ensure smooth transitions between foods by mixing increasing amounts of new food with old over 7-10 days to prevent digestive upset.

Weight monitoring is important despite their increased caloric needs. While Peterbalds require more food than many cats, overfeeding can still lead to obesity. You should be able to feel your cat's ribs with light pressure but not see them prominently. The spine should be palpable but not protruding. Their Oriental body type should remain lean and tubular without excess weight. Adjust portions based on your individual cat's body condition, activity level, and metabolism.

Fresh, clean water must always be available. Many cats prefer running water, so consider a cat water fountain to encourage adequate hydration. Proper hydration supports kidney health and overall wellbeing. Avoid feeding your Peterbald toxic foods including chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, xylitol, alcohol, or caffeine. While occasional small treats are fine, maintain treats at less than 10% of daily caloric intake. Consider using regular food as training treats rather than adding extra calories. Consult your veterinarian about specific dietary needs, especially if your Peterbald has health concerns or sensitivities.

The Peterbald's health profile reflects its hybrid status and relatively recent development, combining potential health considerations from both parent breeds while potentially benefiting from outcrossing that maintains genetic diversity. As a breed with ongoing outcrossing to Oriental Shorthairs and related breeds, Peterbalds may have fewer breed-specific genetic disorders than some purebred cats with limited gene pools. However, they share some health concerns with other hairless breeds and Oriental-type cats. With proper care, nutrition, and veterinary attention, Peterbalds typically live 12-15 years, with many individuals reaching 16-18 years when well cared for.

While the Peterbald has specific health considerations related to hairlessness and Oriental heritage, responsible breeding practices and attentive care result in generally healthy cats. Working with reputable breeders who prioritize health testing, maintaining regular veterinary care, providing appropriate nutrition and environment, and monitoring for early signs of health issues all contribute to your Peterbald's wellbeing. These affectionate, intelligent cats reward proper care with years of devoted companionship, bringing their unique combination of elegance, warmth, and personality to families throughout their lives.

The Peterbald's coat—or lack thereof—is one of its most distinctive and variable features. Unlike most breeds with consistent coat types, Peterbalds display remarkable variety ranging from completely bald to short-coated, adding unique complexity to grooming and care requirements.

Peterbald coat types fall into several categories: "Bald" individuals are completely hairless with sticky, rubber-like skin that feels warm and slightly tacky to the touch. "Chamois" or "Flock" Peterbalds have minimal coverage—80-90% hairless with a slight velvet texture up to 1mm that feels like suede or fine chamois leather. "Velour" types have short, fine coat up to 3mm creating a soft, velvety texture—this coat may disappear as the cat matures. "Brush" Peterbalds have wiry, crimped coat up to 5mm that feels coarse and springy. "Straight" types have normal short coat indistinguishable from regular shorthaired cats. Many Peterbalds born with hair gradually lose it over their first two years, though some retain coats throughout life.

The skin or minimal coat displays all possible colors and patterns—solid colors, tabby patterns, pointed patterns (similar to Siamese), tortoiseshell, and any combination. These patterns are visible directly on the skin or minimal coat, creating unique visual effects unlike furred cats. Common colors include seal point, blue point, chocolate point, black, white, red, cream, and various tabby and tortoiseshell combinations. The skin may be wrinkled, particularly around the shoulders, between the ears, and around the muzzle, adding character and requiring attention during bathing.

Grooming requirements depend primarily on coat type but all Peterbalds need regular attention. Bald and minimally-coated individuals require weekly bathing to remove accumulated skin oils. Without fur to absorb sebum, oils build up causing brown waxy residue, acne, rashes, or unpleasant odors if neglected. Use lukewarm water and gentle, moisturizing cat-specific shampoo—products designed for hairless cats work best.

During bathing, pay special attention to wrinkled areas where oils accumulate: between skin folds, around ears, between toes, under the chin, and in facial creases. Gently clean these areas with a soft washcloth. Rinse thoroughly to remove all soap residue. After bathing, dry completely with soft towels, ensuring no moisture remains trapped in skin folds. Most Peterbalds tolerate bathing well, and many enjoy the warm water and attention.

Ear cleaning is essential for all Peterbalds regardless of coat type. Their large ears produce significant wax that must be removed weekly using veterinary-approved ear cleaning solution and cotton balls. Gently wipe visible parts of the ear canal, removing brown buildup. Never insert cotton swabs deep into the canal.

Nail trimming should occur every 2-3 weeks. Peterbalds' nails can accumulate oil and dirt more noticeably than furred cats. Dental care is important—brush teeth several times weekly using cat-specific toothpaste to prevent periodontal disease.

Between baths, some owners wipe their Peterbald's skin with pet-safe, fragrance-free wet wipes to remove excess oil buildup, helping extend time between full baths while keeping skin fresh. For brush-coated or straight-coated Peterbalds, light brushing removes loose hair while providing the same skin benefits as wiping for hairless individuals. The Peterbald's unique coat varieties create individualized grooming needs, but all require regular attention to maintain the elegant appearance and healthy skin that characterize this distinctive Russian breed.

Peterbald cats can adapt to family environments with children and other pets, though their unique needs, high energy, and intense personality require consideration when evaluating household compatibility. Understanding the breed's temperament and requirements helps determine whether a Peterbald is the right fit for your family structure and lifestyle.

With children, Peterbald compatibility depends largely on children's ages and temperaments. These cats generally do best with older children (typically 8+ years) who understand feline boundaries, appreciate their need for warmth, and handle them gently given their delicate skin. Peterbalds enjoy interactive play and will engage enthusiastically with children who provide appropriate attention through toy-based play. Their intelligence and playfulness appeal to kids who enjoy training pets or engaging in complex play scenarios.

However, younger children may find Peterbalds challenging. Their constant vocalization, high energy, and demanding nature can be overwhelming for toddlers. Additionally, Peterbald skin is more delicate than furred cats—rough handling, scratching with fingernails, or exposure to cold can hurt them. Young children may not understand temperature management needs or recognize that the cat requires gentle touch. Peterbalds' tendency to seek warmth means they gravitate toward laps and cuddling, which suits some children but may frustrate others who want more active play.

Teaching children proper Peterbald interaction is essential. Explain that while these cats are playful, their skin is sensitive and they need warmth. Demonstrate gentle petting without scratching, appropriate play using toys rather than hands, and recognition of body language indicating the cat needs space. Children should understand never to touch the cat with cold hands and to ensure the cat stays warm. Supervision remains important during all interactions.

Peterbalds typically thrive in multi-cat households, showing none of the territorial aggression some breeds display. Their social nature and intense desire for companionship make them eager to befriend other cats. They particularly enjoy having other Peterbalds or hairless companions who share their need for warmth, frequently found cuddled together in tight groups. When introducing a new Peterbald to resident cats, follow standard protocols with gradual introductions, though Peterbalds' friendly persistence usually facilitates quick acceptance.

With dogs, Peterbalds often form excellent relationships when paired with appropriate canine temperaments. Their confident nature prevents them from acting fearful or prey-like, helping establish good dynamics. Many Peterbalds actively seek canine companionship, playing with dogs, sleeping curled against warm dog bodies, and grooming canine friends. However, their high energy and quick movements could trigger chase instincts in high-prey-drive dogs. When introducing Peterbalds to dogs, ensure controlled, positive first meetings and never allow chasing. Provide elevated escape routes.

With smaller pets like birds, hamsters, or rabbits, exercise caution. While Peterbalds aren't typically more prey-driven than average cats, they retain hunting instincts inherited from their Oriental ancestry. Their high energy and curiosity increase interaction likelihood. Keep small animals securely housed in areas your cat cannot access, and never leave them unsupervised together.

Overall, Peterbalds thrive in active households where their intelligence, energy, vocal nature, and need for interaction are appreciated. They suit experienced cat owners prepared to provide substantial attention, stimulation, temperature management, and companionship. For families meeting these requirements, Peterbalds become devoted members bringing their unique combination of exotic beauty, warmth, intelligence, and affection while maintaining the demanding yet rewarding personality that makes them such special companions.