Peterbald

This young breed was created in 1994, in Saint Petersburg. It is the result of an experimental cross between a Donskoy (or Don Sphinx) and a short-haired Oriental female. The gene responsible for hair loss in the Don Sphinx being dominant, it combined with the typical physique of the Oriental. From the first two litters were born four kittens: Mandarin iz Murino, Muscat iz Murino, Nejenka iz Murino and Nocturne iz Murino. These are the first representatives of the breed. The breed is recognized in 1996 by the Russian Cat Federation. At that date, the standard was also established. A year later, The International Cat Association (TICA) recognizes the breed, then in 2003, the World Cat Federation. Since then, breeders have devoted themselves to maintaining the typical aspect of Oriental and Siamese cats.

Peterbalds are described as temperate and peaceful cats but remaining energetic and curious. Like Siamese and Orientals they would tolerate solitude poorly and would therefore need a lot of attention. They would also appreciate the company of other cats and generally get along well with other animals and with children. These character traits remain, however, perfectly individual and are above all functions of each cat's history, whatever its breed.

The Peterbald has the physique of the Oriental, that is to say a long body, a triangular head with well-defined cheekbones, large ears and almond-shaped eyes (blue and green are allowed). The legs are long and thin, the feet oval with elongated toes. There are 3 varieties recognized by the championship: