Donskoy

The Donskoy, also known as the Don Sphynx or Russian Hairless, is a medium-sized, muscular cat breed from Russia recognized for its completely or partially hairless, wrinkled skin and affectionate personality.

Physical Features

• Medium-sized and sturdy with a muscular build.
• Distinctive wrinkled, velvety skin; usually hairless, but some may have light fuzz.
• Large ears, almond-shaped eyes (often green, blue, or gold), and long, webbed toes.
• Long, slender tail and pear-shaped body with a pronounced rib cage.

History and Genetics

• Originated in Russia in 1987 from a spontaneous dominant genetic mutation.
• Not related to the Canadian Sphynx; its hairlessness is due to a different gene.
• Officially recognized by major feline associations including TICA and WCF.

Personality and Temperament

• Highly intelligent, gentle, and social; forms strong bonds with owners.
• Playful and active, well-suited for families with children or other pets.
• Calm and patient, usually tolerant to handling and new environments.

Care and Health

• Requires regular bathing to maintain skin health and remove excess oils, despite being hairless.
• Generally healthy with minor hereditary risks, and life expectancy is around 12–15 years.
• Weight ranges from 8–12 pounds when fully grown.

Suitability

• Best for families seeking affectionate, trainable, and curious pets.
• Adapts well to households with other cats and dogs, though early introductions help.

Summary Table

Trait	Description
Origin	Russia (1987) - from spontaneous dominant genetic mutation
Other Names	Don Sphynx, Russian Hairless
Recognition	TICA, WCF, and other major feline associations
Size	Medium-sized, sturdy, muscular
Weight	8–12 pounds when fully grown
Build	Muscular, pear-shaped body with pronounced rib cage
Skin	Wrinkled, velvety skin; usually hairless, some may have light fuzz
Ears	Large ears
Eyes	Almond-shaped (often green, blue, or gold)
Toes	Long, webbed toes
Tail	Long, slender tail
Genetics	Not related to Canadian Sphynx; different hairlessness gene
Temperament	Highly intelligent, gentle, social, playful, active, calm, patient
Sociability	Forms strong bonds with owners, well-suited for families with children or other pets
Grooming	Regular bathing required to maintain skin health and remove excess oils
Lifespan	Around 12–15 years
Health	Generally healthy with minor hereditary risks
Suitability	Best for families seeking affectionate, trainable, and curious pets

The Donskoy is appreciated for its striking look, warm skin, and friendly disposition, making it a unique and desirable companion for cat enthusiasts.

References

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