The bambino is a controversial new cat breed that crosses the hairless sphynx with the short-legged munchkin. It is essentially a perfect mix of the two breeds, bearing the general appearance of a sphynx atop its shockingly short legs.

The controversy surrounding this breed stems from the concern that deliberately bred short-limbed cats are vulnerable to health problems and pain due to their anatomical abnormality. In addition, the sphynx breed carries its own set of hereditary issues and is prone to skin damage from the sun. For these reasons, the breed is considered "experimental" and is discouraged by the Cat Fanciers' Association.

Bambino Cat Characteristics

The bambino is affectionate and full of character, enjoying the company of its family and reluctant to be alone for very long. This small to medium-sized cat enjoys playing but doesn't need too much exercise. Because it is hairless, the bambino is more vulnerable to injuries than other cats and should be protected from other pets' bites or scratches as well as excessive sun exposure (even through windows), which might burn the bambino's delicate skin.

History of the Bambino Cat

The bambino breed was launched in 2005 by Stephanie and Pat Osborne, owners of the Holy Moly Cattery in Arkansas, which is no longer in operation. The Osbornes bred sphynx cats, carrying the recessive hairless gene, with munchkin cats that carried the dominant short-legged gene. They called the new breed bambino (the Italian word for "baby").

The International Cat Association (TICA) recognized the bambino as an "experimental" breed in 2006. But, neither the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) nor the American Cat Fanciers' Association (ACFA) will allow the breed's registry because they don't want to encourage the propagation of genetic abnormalities for aesthetic reasons.

The intentional breeding of genetically disfigured cats like the short-legged bambino and munchkin is a controversial and divisive practice among cat professionals, veterinarians, and the public. Even so, the bambino appears to be gaining popularity as a "fad" breed.

Bambino Cat Care

Grooming

Some people are attracted to the bambino for its hypoallergenic potential, but no cat is completely hypoallergenic, and the bambino still produces some dander that may irritate sensitive individuals. Surprisingly, the slight "down" of the bambino's coat also needs more care than most people think.

Because they lack a normal absorbent coat, bambinos' skin tends to be oily, making them more susceptible to skin problems like bacterial or fungal infections. Regular bathing and gentle wipes with a moist cloth will help keep their skin and downy coat clean.

Exercise

Despite their short legs, bambinos are known for being energetic and surprisingly agile. They enjoy playing with toys and having other forms of kitty enrichment around their home. Their shorter legs can tire more easily than "normal" cats, so they don't need tons of exercise, but they still like to scratch and climb on low cat trees (jumping from high surfaces is not a good idea and shouldn't be encouraged).

Bambinos are likely to get sunburned outdoors. If you do take your bambino outside, use a vet-approved feline sunscreen (human sunscreen is toxic to pets) or avoid direct sunlight for more than a few minutes. Cold weather is also dangerous for this hairless cat, and their skin can get injured more easily on brambles or sticks. Overall, bambinos are best suited to an indoor lifestyle.

Common Health Problems

Because the bambino is such a new breed, the extent of its genetic health problems is not yet known. However, it is safe to assume it may be prone to issues that affect both the sphynx and munchkin breeds. These include:

• Lordosis: This condition can occur in any cat, but it is more prevalent in the munchkin. It involves the spine excessively curving inwards, putting pressure on vital organs. It can be fatal in some cases.
• Pectus excavatum: This is another condition seen in munchkins. The breastbone caves in, causing various issues including respiratory problems, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
• Hereditary myopathy: This condition of generalized muscle weakness affects sphynx cats.

Diet and Nutrition

All cats need to be fed a quality diet, and the bambino will be no exception. They are obligate carnivores, and their food needs to be a high-protein one specifically developed for cats. In addition, it's important to offer measured portions at scheduled meal times (twice per day) so that the bambino does not become overweight, which puts extra pressure on the spine and increases the likelihood of developing feline diabetes.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Bambino Cat

Bambino cats are still rare, so you may encounter waiting lists or need to travel to buy a kitten. Because of the rarity and increasing popularity of the breed, watch out for unscrupulous "backyard" breeders with less-than-ethical practices that seek to take advantage of the market. Kittens from these breeders are more likely to be inbred or carry undocumented health problems.

Some reputable sphynx breeders also specialize in bambinos, so they are a great resource when looking for a bambino kitten.

Bambino Overview

Bambinos are known for being very playful and affectionate. They love to be surrounded by company and may become depressed if left alone for more than a few hours. They enjoy homes with gentle children and pets, as they are sociable and friendly, but care must be taken to protect bambinos' delicate skin from injury when playing.

Their skin requires more care than the average cat because of its tendency toward oiliness. Otherwise, the bambino is a fairly low-maintenance cat that is well-suited to indoor life.

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More Cat Breeds and Further Research

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Siamese
• Birman
• Donskoy

Otherwise, check out all of our other cat breed profiles.