How can you not want a sweet little Bambino cat with their playful and loving nature? This breed is the energizer bunny of the feline world. You will certainly enjoy their silly hijinks and curious nature as they get into everything with such enthusiasm.
When they’re finally worn out, it’s time for a snuggle and purring session with your adorable kitty. Once you have a Bambino cat, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get one sooner.
Bambino Cat Facts
- Stephanie and Pat Osbourne of the Holy Moly Cattery developed the Bambino breed by crossing a Sphynx and a Munchkin. TICA officially recognized this cat as an experimental breed in 2005.
- Are Bambinos truly a hairless breed? No. This cute kitty has a velvety feel from the fuzz that covers their wrinkled skin.
- The dwarf breed’s name, Bambino, actually comes from the Italian word for baby. Sounds like the purr-fect name for this little cat.
- Because this cat has no thick fur and their skin is completely exposed during Spring and Summer, they will need sunblock for any outdoor exposure. A sweater or some kind of covering during the cold Fall and Winter months is also a necessity.
- Even though they are considered hairless, the Bambino is not hypoallergenic. Humans who are allergic to cats typically do not have reactions to the fur or pet dander on a cat. Allergies flare up when in contact with the fur that has been licked by the cat. Their saliva contains the Fel d 1 protein which is the actual culprit.
- Bambinos tend to walk with a waddle because of their short legs however, they don’t prevent them from jumping or racing around like any other cat.
Physical Features
- Lifespan: Commonly live from 9 to 15 years of age.
- Weight: Females weigh from 5-8 lbs. and males typically weigh from 7 to 9 lbs.
- Body Type: Stocky with short legs and a height of around 7-8 inches.
- Eye Color: blue, green and yellow
- Coat Color: Black, white, cream or brown; hairless but soft like suede.
- Shedding: No shedding whatsoever.
Personality Traits
- Activity Level: Being playful and somewhat mischievous, these little balls of energy will definitely entertain you. Don’t think their short legs deters them from jumping to high places or darting around your house like a crazy cat.
- Breed Intellect: This breed is considered perceptive and inquisitive by nature. You can tell by looking at them that they’re thinking about what kind of silly antics are next on the agenda. It seems like this cat is always trying to figure things out.
- Temperament: Bambinos are really outgoing kitties who love to clown around. They love having fun and are full of energy. On the flip side, they are truly loving kitties as well and enjoy their time with all people.
- Attention Needs: Because this cat is quite frisky and very curious, you’ll want to keep plenty of toys to occupy their minds when you are busy. These kitties enjoy their time with humans so be sure to give them the attention they need.
- Caring Nature: The Bambino cat is very affectionate and will form a deep bond with their owners. They love to curl up with you on the couch or in bed for a petting and purring session.
- Vocal Tendency: When they have something to say, they’ll let you know with sweet little meows. Playtime, meow. Meal time, meow. Love me, meow.
- Kids Compatible: Due to their playful nature, Bambinos are great with children however, keep an eye on smaller kids to make sure they don’t torment this kitty.
- Tolerates Pets: They may be weary of other pets in the house at first but they will eventually warm up to them. Just remember to gradually introduce them.
- Stranger-Friendly: The Bambino loves their human interaction as long as they like cats. Any visiting family or friends will be welcomed with open paws.
Health and Well-Being
Ideal Living Situation
The Bambino is a very adaptable cat so it can live with an active family in a big home or someone who lives alone in an larger apartment.
It tends to get along well with just about anyone from family to friends.
Possible Health Problems
This is a normally healthy breed but it does have a few things that can arise.
It may occasionally develop skin problems if not bathed on a regular basis.
Pectus excavatum (sunken breastbone) and Lordosis (excessive curvature of the spine) could be inherited from the Munchkin side of their lineage.
In more severe cases, a heart condition known as Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy can result as well.
A good breeder will scan for all these problems.
Annual Vaccinations
There are four core vaccines and one non-core option available for all cats.
The first essential vaccine would be Rabies which is a fatal disease if exposed to it.
The second inoculation (FVRCP) is a combination of the remaining three core vaccines in one. This covers Feline Herpesvirus 1 or FHV-1 which is an upper respiratory infection, Feline Calicivirus or FCV which attacks the upper respiratory tract, and the final is Feline Panleukopenia Virus or FPV (also known as Feline Distemper) which is life threatening and extremely dangerous for young cats and kittens.
You can get the optional non-core vaccine Feline Leukemia Virus or FeLV. This is considered a core vaccine for every kitten. Make an appointment with your local vet to discuss and schedule all these vaccinations.
Grooming Routine
When caring for cats, there are four specific areas which need regular attention.
Weekly brushing is the minimum required to keep their fur healthy and shiny. This also helps distribute natural body oils, remove dead hair, and eliminate matted fur.
When the nails are getting a little too sharp and ripping furniture or carpet, it’s time to trim them. Be sure not to trim off too much of each nail as this can cause pain.
Cats are prone to periodontal disease and gingivitus so brushing their teeth with veterinarian-approved toothpaste once or twice a week should suffice. You can also give them dental treats to clean their teeth in between brushing.
Finally, you’ll want to address the ears. While cats have a built-in mechanism for cleansing their inner ear canals, the visible portion of their ears should occasionally be very gently swabbed to remove foreign matter.
Please consult a veterinarian for the proper procedures when grooming your cat.
Feeding Advice
Cats are known as obligate carnivores or strict meat eaters. Their diets should primarily consist of high protein and a few fats.
While carbohydrates are not usually a part of feline nutrition, scientists have concluded they are able to be used for energy in small amounts. On the other hand, if a cat is continuously fed too many carbs, diabetes can actually develop later in their life.
When choosing a wet or dry food, you need to read the caloric information labels to ensure your cat is being fed the appropriate nutrient levels.
Normally, wet foods should contain around 70% to 80% moisture as cats from past feral generations obtained most of their liquids from the animals they killed and ate.
Proteins are ideal when they’re between 10% and 20% in grain-free wet food. Seafood varieties are typically the highest in protein.
Two of the best dry food formulas on the market would be Natural Balance Limited Ingredients Diet with High Protein and Orijen Biologically Appropriate Cat Food. These specially made dry food products include healthy amounts of prepared raw meats, some needed fats, and minimal carbohydrates.
Exercise Tips
You should plan to play with your cat at least 15 minutes everyday, although, more is encouraged with certain active breeds.
Feather toys and laser pointers are a great choice to keep them moving. This helps relieve their boredom and reduces the chance for depression as well.
For a really cheap play session, simply buy a ball of string. Cut off a ten foot section at a time and drag it around the house behind you. Your kitties will love attacking the end of the string! Big fun for a small price.
Catnip is another way to offer an edible distraction in their lives. Don’t worry, the effects typically wear off in about 15 minutes or so.
One of the best items you can acquire for exercise would be a cat tree or cat condo. This is basically a jungle gym for cats which provides a place for climbing, relaxing, and sharpening their claws instead of using your furniture.
There are a couple other alternatives including an exercise wheel, which can be somewhat expensive, and a simple body harness with a leash for outdoor walks. Your cat may or may not like this option but, you can give it a try.
Bambino Cat Price
The Bambino price is quite high due to the rarity of this breed. It will cost you a minimum of $2000 to own a Bambino.
Show potential kittens run $3500+ depending on color and shortness.
While it is highly unlikely you’ll find a Bambino to adopt, if you’re lucky enough to locate one, fees are anywhere from $30 to $175. It will probably a mixed breed though.
Registered Bambino Breeders
PurrBastet Sphynx & Bambinos – California
Smooth Country Cattery – California
Sphynx Bambinos 4ever – California
Ratatat Cattery – Florida
The Purr Without the Fur – Florida
Kyty Kittens – Missouri
Wicked Sphynx – New Hampshire
Sphynx World Cattery – New York
Southern Sphynx – Oklahoma
Brandi’s Bare Butt Babies – Pennsylvania
Luna Kats – Texas
Lil Nudists Cattery – Virginia
Royal Sphynx Cattery – Washington
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