Bambino

Breed Description

The Bambino is a cat breed that emerged relatively recently. Its unusual appearance quickly brought the breed fame. Hairless cats have always attracted attention, but the Bambino has another distinct feature: very short legs, a result of yet another mutation. They are often compared to mythical elves, but acquiring a kitten from a cattery is not that simple. This is an experimental breed and has not yet been recognized by leading feline organizations worldwide. So what exactly is a Bambino? Let’s find out.

The Canadian Sphynx contributed a wrinkled forehead and a complete lack of fur to the “gnome,” while the short legs are inherited from the Munchkin. For reference, the Munchkin is like a dachshund in the world of cats due to its very short legs. The Bambino, or gnome cat, shares the most similarities with the Canadian Sphynx. Its existence is credited to the oversight of its owners, who had both a Canadian Sphynx and a Munchkin at the same time. According to some information, the hybrid appeared completely by chance. However, we won’t insist on this version. To preserve and strengthen key characteristics, breeders only cross representatives of this breed. In the few years since this designer breed’s inception, its charming appearance and equally charming character have drawn more and more attention. Despite everything, the breed remains classified as experimental, and while advertisements for kittens can be found online, they are still quite rare.

In our country, there is a distinct branch of the Bambino. It resembles the American “short-legged Sphynx” only in terms of breeding methods, but is not regulated by overseas feline organizations. Initially, they were classified as Munchkins, and only later was it decided to recognize them as a separate breed. There aren’t many offers for these kittens in our country. However, on Zoonika, you can find the best cattery options in Russia, including those with rare designer cat breeds.

If you look at advertisements for Bambino kittens, prices range from 20,000 rubles depending on the class and can reach 45,000 – 50,000 rubles. In established catteries, there are offers from high-level breeders at “negotiable prices.” This method of acquisition is considered the most reasonable, as the buyer is guaranteed to receive a healthy pet with an excellent pedigree. Often, the purchase includes lifetime support from the cattery in the form of consultations regarding diet, care, and keeping a Bambino.

Appearance

Thus, a mix of several mutations has given rise to an entirely new breed of cat called the bambino. This hairless, short-legged cat possesses two mutations: one responsible for the lack of fur inherited from the Canadian Sphynx, and the other affecting leg length as a legacy from the Munchkin. Interestingly, this genetic trait does not affect the length of the spine, its flexibility, or the overall mobility of the cat.

The extraordinary pet is charmingly playful and very photogenic. Despite its small height, which does not exceed 20 cm at the shoulder, males are significantly larger than females. The breed is yet to be officially recognized, and there is only a preliminary standard in place, but key features are already noticeable: good musculature, a loving character, a weight range of 2-4 kg, activity, and a fairly serious lifespan of 13-15 years.

Like a dachshund, the bambino is cheerful and active, loves to play, and when lying down, it is almost indistinguishable from its hairless counterpart, the Canadian Sphynx. In our country, you can already choose a kitten from a cattery. Unlike its larger ancestor, its movements are more “grounded,” leading some cat enthusiasts to call them “gnomes,” although “bambino” translates from Italian to Russian as “child.”

Отличительные черты

Голова

Despite its average size, it appears larger in the overall view. It is wedge-shaped, with rounded contours, more elongated than wide. The cheekbones stand out prominently, giving it an impressive look. The forehead is wrinkled, and there is a flat area between the ears.

Морда

Well-filled, short, with a rounded silhouette. The vibrissae pads are prominently defined. A fairly prominent chin that aligns vertically with the earlobe when viewed from the side. The nose bridge is straight and quite broad. The cheekbones are high and well-developed.

Уши

Slightly spread apart, large with a wide base. There may be a light "velour" texture on the outside of the ear, but the inner part is completely hairless. They are shaped similarly to a leaf. The distance between the inner edges of the base should not exceed the width of the ear base.

Глаза

The large, widely spaced eye cut of the Russian and American breed lines differs slightly. The American "dwarfs" have an olive-like shape, while the Russian ones have sharper outlines. The cornea can be a rich yellow or a deep green shade.

Зубы

They are closely positioned to each other, which reduces issues with oral hygiene. The jaws are powerful and strong, with prominent cheekbones. The tooth enamel is robust and, according to preliminary information, is less likely to wear down compared to similar cats. However, regular check-ups are necessary to maintain their health.

Корпус

With a beautiful musculature, athletic chest, and neck. Long, with a rounded but not sagging belly. When viewed from above, the waist, back, and chest are of equal width. Males are noticeably larger and more powerful than females. When viewed from the side, the back is slightly raised toward the tail due to the difference in leg length.

Конечности

Short, but this does not affect mobility, with well-developed muscles. Front: dachshund-like, meaning they reduce the chest. The front forelegs are straight. Rear: a bit higher than the front and noticeably thicker, with powerful thighs. The skin on them is wrinkled, and ideally, the length should be about a third of the height at the withers. Full-sized limbs are prohibited in the AOV class.

Хвост

Quite long compared to the overall size of the pet. Very energetic and flexible, resembling a whip or a rat's tail. Its base is wide and gradually tapers to a rounded tip. Bends and knottiness are not allowed anywhere.

Шерсть

There is a complete absence or possibly a "velvety" hair on the legs, the outer sides of the ears, and the tail. Instead of fur, there is a specially textured skin covered in folds, giving the impression of being "excess," especially on the paws, and wrinkled on the forehead between the ears.

Окрас

Any recognized and possible colors are allowed, including a wide variety from a genetic standpoint. The most common are pink (skin), gray, graphite, and other colors that can be found in Canadian Sphynx cats.

Character

“Bambino” translates from Italian as “child”. The temperament of the short-legged descendants of Sphynx cats fully corresponds to this name. Their charming appearance, small stature, good-natured and cheerful disposition, complete lack of aggression, and hunting instincts all resemble those of a small child or a bambino of any age.

Activity and a desire to play are inseparable companions of these hairless pets. Due to their physique, they cannot jump like regular cats; instead, they do adorable little hops that delight those around them. However, they can also become sad, so before choosing a kitten from a cattery, make sure to buy a set of toys for your future pet. A cozy house for comfortable resting is also essential, so the cat feels safe.

They adapt very quickly and easily to new living conditions and readily find common ground with other animals, including dogs, rodents, and birds. They are pacifists in the cat world, unable and unwilling to resist a bully. As for children, they are perhaps the best companions for them. But this doesn’t mean they don’t acknowledge their older owners. Their creed is to always be the center of attention and to be a shadow to their owner. Unfortunately, this trait can also be viewed negatively, as “hairless gnomes” suffer greatly during the day when their owner is at work, panicking at the thought of loneliness.

Once again, it’s worth highlighting that their small size and easy adaptability to changes in environment make them among the best companions for travel. Some sources note a relatively low level of mobility. However, this is not entirely accurate. If there’s no one to play with, the designer kitty will settle on its owner’s lap. But when there’s a bustling atmosphere or the owner proposes something energetic and fun, there’s no doubt the latter will win out.

Sadly, there is another characteristic that can also be viewed negatively: excessive sociability. Their desire to interact even with strangers could put the little one at risk. Even during walks, the kitten won’t retreat from an unfamiliar dog, expecting everyone around to be as peaceful as it is.

In conclusion, we can say that the bambino is a true intellectual in the cat world, possessing unmatched charm and loyalty to its family.

Care and Maintenance

The amusing combination of short legs and large ears never goes unnoticed. To ensure that Bambinos feel happy and healthy, owners must provide proper care and create optimal conditions for their pets.

Firstly, attention to diet is essential. Hairless short-legged cats particularly need a well-balanced diet. Natural food often leads to allergies and is not the best choice for this breed. It is recommended to select high-quality holistic commercial diets or ready-made super-premium dry food, as they fully meet their needs. The owner’s task is to monitor feeding schedules, ensure a constant supply of clean water in the pet’s bowl, and prevent the little Bambino from becoming a glutton or overweight. Typically, packages indicate recommended portion sizes, but consulting a veterinarian can also be beneficial to choose the optimal diet for your “little one.” If you decide to adopt a kitten from a reputable breeder, the breeder will undoubtedly advise you on what food they use for their hairless cats.

Secondly, hygiene is equally important. Since this breed has little to no fur, they need regular cleaning with special lotions. This protects against dryness and irritation. Additionally, it’s important to remove skin oil and thoroughly clean each fold to avoid rashes and irritation. Regular wipes or sponges work well for this, and the cleansing lotion is usually bought on the recommendation of a breeder or veterinarian. The skin of a Bambino is somewhat of a stress reliever for its owners, but it needs protection from direct sunlight to avoid burns. It is the owner’s responsibility to ensure that the short-legged Sphynx does not stay in the sun for too long. In winter, extra care is needed, as the little one can get cold; insulated cat suits can be lifesavers in this situation.

Thirdly, do not forget about your “gnome’s” claws. Their claws are as sharp as those of any other cat, but with no fur, any scratching can lead to cuts and inflammation. Special claw clippers make the process easier. However, you can also call a groomer at home or visit a nearby pet salon. It is advised to trim claws regularly to avoid such problems and to keep your furniture safe-this should not be overlooked either. If you buy a kitten from a breeder, it will already be accustomed to this process and trimming claws will not be an issue.

Healthy teeth are key to the overall health of the body. Although there are usually no problems, regular brushing positively affects enamel health and prevents plaque build-up. Giving them special chew bones will help prevent tartar formation and strengthen the gums.

Active short-legged Sphynxes love to play. However, due to their structure, they may not be able to jump on chairs or sofas. It is recommended to invest in sturdy cubes of various sizes for them to use as steps and climb up to sit with their owners after running around with children. Since couch potatoes can quickly gain extra weight, physical activity is essential for them.Also, pay attention to advertisements for kittens available for sale online. Among those posting, there may be others who are willing to share their personal experience in providing comfortable living conditions for Bambinos.

Training and Education

The training process allows for the establishment of a harmonious relationship between you and your pet. It is important to understand that cat training differs from dog training and requires a special approach.

The first step can be considered the establishment of contact and trust. Bambinos are known for their friendliness and affection, and your task is to strengthen this bond as much as possible. A calm and comfortable environment for training is necessary, dedicating enough time and attention to each session. Usually, 15 to 20 minutes a day is sufficient. Use only positive reinforcement, encouraging your cat with affection and tasty treats when successfully performing a command. Don’t forget about your tone of voice; ensure it is calm and gentle.

Secondly, consistency is crucial, along with a smooth transition from simple tasks to more complex ones. This will help your cat better understand what is expected of it and gradually learn to meet those expectations. Show patience during training, as some commands may be grasped immediately while others may take more time to work on.

The third principle is that each little bambino is a bright individual. Just because one cat enjoys a certain activity doesn’t mean another will feel the same way. Some hairless cats may prefer play, while others may enjoy peace and affection. Adapt to your pet’s individuality and consider its needs and preferences.

Remember that training is a process that requires time, patience, and consistency. Be prepared for your pet to make mistakes or not always understand tasks. It is important to remain calm and continue training, without allowing missteps to affect your motivation and confidence. Never punish for mistakes physically, by yelling, or through deprivation of freedom, as this will only sever the bond with your kitten. With your efforts and love, your “Bambino” will become a well-mannered and obedient member of your family. At Zoonika, certified kittens of elite breeds are gathered.

How to Choose a Kitten

First and foremost, it’s important to emphasize that this is a designer breed that currently lacks an established standard. Therefore, advertisements for Bambino kittens may not be the safest place to make a purchase. By responding to one of these, you might acquire a cute kitten with hidden genetic issues that the seller won’t mention. If you’ve decided to welcome an adorable companion with short legs, the best solution is to buy a kitten from a reputable cattery.

When starting your selection, it’s crucial to thoroughly review all available documents and pay special attention to genetic screenings. Their physical condition is equally important. They should be clean, active, with clear eyes and ears. Their skin folds should appear well-groomed, and the surface should resemble suede. Remember that you are choosing a companion for the next 13 years or more, and its personality should meet your expectations: some prefer playful ones, while others lean towards more affectionate and calm companions.

On Zoonika, you can find the best catteries in Russia, offering a variety of breeds, including short-legged Sphynx cats. They are often sold in the same catteries as other hairless cats. If you visit one, be sure to take note of their parents: Munchkins and Sphynxes. Key traits of character and behavior will undoubtedly be present in your little Bambino. On Zoonika, you can find a kitten with pedigree from a trusted breeder.

Health and Diseases

Absolutely all short-haired cats are very sensitive to the surrounding temperature. Short-legged Bambino Sphynx cats especially need temperature control. Additionally, they require regular bathing or skin stretching due to the oil produced, which can clog the skin’s pores. The most common health issues primarily involve skin problems: dermatitis, rashes, and sunburn. In cold weather, without proper insulation, they can catch a cold. Unfortunately, cardiomyopathy is also frequently seen in these short-legged “babies.” The walls of the heart’s ventricles become thicker and denser, reducing the volume of blood pumped. Unfortunately, this condition is progressive and cannot be cured. Although the mutations are related only to hairlessness and short legs, cases of spinal curvature are not uncommon. This can lead to intervertebral hernias and limited mobility. As a consequence, this can result in weight gain and problems with internal organs.

You can rule out these issues by requesting test results for genetic diseases during your visit with the breeder when buying a kitten from a cattery. There is a fairly high risk of injuries during activities. A Bambino cannot jump even onto a couch due to its structure, but it can easily fall. This is why there are various accessories for cats, including running wheels, which can help release built-up energy and ensure the kitten’s safety.