Bambino
Meoww!!
The Bambino can sometimes be referred to as a dwarf cat. However, this is just a general term for them.
In 5 Words
The Bambino is a cross between the Sphynx and the Munchkin. The idea was to create a short hairless cat with a lively and affectionate disposition.
Snapshot
Size: Small-Medium
Weight: 5-9 lbs
Origin: USA
Life Span: 12+ years
Colour: Any
Characteristics
Learn About the Bambino
Bambino cats are short, hairless cats. They were the product of Munchkin to Sphynx outcrossings and have been around for some time now. Pat and Stephanie Osborne of HolyMoly Cattery got hold of one of the Munchkin/Sphynx crossbreeds and took a liking to its appearance and personality right away. After research was done with these short hairless cats’ health and viability, the Bambino breed was founded and established by Stephanie and Pat in 2005. The name Bambino was chosen as Pat came from an Italian heritage. Bambino means baby in Italian, thus dubbing Bambino as “Baby Cats”. It is an accurate description since this breed keeps its kitten like appearance and behavior all throughout their life.
The first Bambino litter registered was born to HolyMoly Cattery. In 2006, Stephanie and Pat sent an application for registration status to The International Cat Association (TICA) for the new breed to be accepted. TICA viewed Bambinos as a new experimental breed and commenced registering them. They are also recognized by the Rare and Exotic Feline Registry (REFR).
The Bambino has a body with an overall appearance of strength and muscularity. It is not think or whippy. They possess a very muscular overall appearance with their well muscled medium boning. They have large almond shaped eyes which are wide set and slightly slanted. Their short muzzle creates a square appearance when viewed from the top. Their backs are level with a slight rise in the back legs. They have medium sized feet with prominent knuckles and well defined toes, and short legs. Their tail is long and slender, flexible like a whip, tapered to the end with a lion tuft.
The Bambino feels very warm. Despite its seemingly obvious bald body, they do have a fine down that is not noticeable by the naked eye. Depending on their degree of hairlessness, they can give a feel of soft peach, warm velvet or sticky putty. The founders emphasized the significance of the texture of their coats. If the cat is totally hairless, then it is the texture of the skin that is referred to.
Bambino cats are described as active, alert and loving. They make a great companion for the whole family. Even though they have short legs, they are still agile and can move just about everywhere. They are lively and very outgoing. They are seen as perfect for people who want an active cat they can play with.
With the breed still being developed, there are health issues yet to be discovered with Bambino cats. In the mean time, health problems related to dwarfism are being investigated and may be identified at a later time.
The Bambino should be bathed every other week. If they are not able to receive enough bath, they will get greasy and can leave grease stain where they lie down. On the other hand, if you give it a bath than required, it can lead to dry skin. There are Bambinos that enjoy the water. You wouldn’t have a hard time giving it a bath since your new Bambino cat may already be accustomed to the process. You can buy cat wipes at pet stores. Be sure to check their ears and nail beds and ensure those are clean. Residue can quickly build up in these areas. The same holds true with the webbing between their toes.
Limit your Bambino’s exposure to sunlight as overexposure can burn them. Most people will not be allergic to Bambinos; however, people who do have allergies with cats find that this breed gives them lesser reactions. Different proteins trigger allergic reactions. It can come from skin dander, coat, or from saliva. If possible, try to spend time with some Bambinos to recognize any allergic reaction.
This breed needs a well-balanced commercial diet. Bambinos tend to eat more than their hairy cousins because of their higher metabolisms being hairless. When you but a Bambino kitten, it’s advisable to discuss proper nutrition with the breeder.
