When were hairless cats bred? - briefly
Hairless cats have been selectively bred for centuries, with some of the earliest evidence dating back to the 16th century in Mexico. The modern breeding of hairless cats gained significant popularity during the 20th century, particularly with the development of the Sphynx breed in Canada.
When were hairless cats bred? - in detail
The history of hairless cat breeding is an intriguing journey that spans centuries and continents, with the first documented instances appearing in Mexico in the early 16th century. The Mexican Hairless, also known as the Xoloitzcuintle or simply Xolo, was revered by the ancient Aztecs for its unique appearance and believed to possess healing properties. These cats were often depicted in ancient Aztec artifacts, signifying their cultural significance.
Fast forward to the 20th century, when hairless cats began to gain attention outside of Mexico. In the 1960s, a geneticist named Dr. Solveig Pflueger initiated a breeding program in the United States with the aim of creating a new breed of hairless cats. She crossed a domestic shorthair cat with a hairless Chihuahua, resulting in a litter that included kittens with varying degrees of hairlessness. Over time, these cats were selectively bred to enhance their hairless trait, leading to the development of the Sphynx breed.
The Sphynx cat, characterized by its wrinkled skin and large ears, quickly gained popularity due to its distinctive appearance and friendly nature. The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) recognized the Sphynx as a championship breed in 2002, solidifying its status within the feline world.
Simultaneously, other hairless cat breeds emerged through both natural mutations and deliberate crossbreeding efforts. One notable example is the Peterbald, which originated in Russia during the late 1980s. This breed resulted from a spontaneous genetic mutation in a Don Sphynx cat, leading to its unique hair pattern that ranges from completely hairless to velvet-like fur. The International Cat Association (TICA) granted championship status to the Peterbald in 2005.
In summary, the breeding of hairless cats has evolved over centuries, with significant milestones occurring in both ancient and modern times. From the revered Mexican Hairless to the contemporary Sphynx and Peterbald breeds, these unique felines continue to captivate cat enthusiasts worldwide with their striking appearances and engaging personalities.