Ugly Cat Breeds That You Should Know If [Not So Ugly Afterall]
Ugly cat? Is that even a thing? Well, as an animal lover and a cat parent, I can’t think of anything as an ugly cat. However, some cat breeds might have a unique and striking appearance.
Mostly, when people think of cats, they think of adorable, cute kitties that you mostly see on reels and commercials. However, there are numerous other cat breeds around the world that might not be as cuddly as you think.
For some people, these cats are just ugly. The thing is, they don’t look like the typical, adorable, standard cats. Here is a list of those “ugly” yet lovable breeds.
Ugly Cat Breeds That You Should Know About
Is there any specification to denote a cat as ugly? Well, there isn’t. However, there are hairless cat breeds, or breeds with other striking features that people often consider unattractive.
But beauty is subjective, and what you think is ugly might be adorable to someone else. Here are some of the breeds that people commonly consider ugly.
1. Cornish Rex
- Origin: Cornwall, UK
- Height: 8-12 inches
- Lifespan: 11-15 years
This mischievous and curious cat breed is not exactly hairless, but rather has short, curly hair due to a recessive gene. However, this gives them a hairless appearance.
Additionally, their extremely thin tail and large ears, combined with a thin face, give them an interesting appearance. They might look thin, but are extremely acrobatic and athletic.
Also, they are extremely friendly with humans and other animals. So, if you do not think of them as ugly, you can have them as your house cat. There is another special characteristic that you should know of, and that is they secrete an oil that smells like gourmet cheese.
2. Donskoy
- Origin: Rostov-on-Don, Russia
- Height: 11-12 inches
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
When someone talks about hairless cats, you will immediately think of the Sphynx. However, they are not the only ones; some other hairless cat species are considered unattractive.
Donskoy is another cat breed that is completely hairless and extremely rare. All cats from this breed can be traced back to a single Russian kitten from 1987. It is due to their genetic makeup that they are hairless. However, some are born with hair but lose it with age.
Because they are hairless, it is difficult for them to stay warm, making them want to cuddle more with their humans. They are more active than other cats and will need a lot of playtime and engagement.
3. Exotic Shorthair
- Origin: United States
- Height: 9-12 inches
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
The Exotic Shorthair is a common cat breed that originated during the 1950s. These are a short-haired version of the Persian cat, and they share many similarities with them.
They even share health issues with Persian cats, including breathing issues. If you want to pet one, you will have to be prepared to take extra care of it. However, they are calm and relaxed, making them perfect for any family.
They do like playing, but are somewhat lazy and snuggly. They enjoy taking a nap or cuddling with their favorite person. These cats are also amazing with kids.
4. Devon Rex
- Origin: Devon, England
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
The Devon Rex resembles the Cornish Rex, but there are notable differences between these breeds. Both of these breeds have short, curly coats and large ears. But their genes are different.
You will notice thicker tails in Devon Rex, and the shape of their face is also different from that of Cornish Rex. These are not major differences, but it is there.
They are also high on energy and needy. So, if you are thinking of getting one for your family, they will not like it if you leave them alone for a long period. They enjoy being around people.
5. Dwelf Cat
- Origin: United States
- Height: 9-12 inches
- Lifespan: 8-14 years
These felines have a unique look and are relatively new. Also, they are quite rare. They were created approximately 20 years ago by breeding an American Curl and a Sphynx.
That is how this hairless cat breed with curled ears came to be. However, they are quite high maintenance, and they do well when they are around humans. They need attention. They will protest strongly if you leave them alone.
If you have pets at home and want a companion for them, then they are the perfect breed. Even if some people might call them ugly, they are amazing as family pets.
6. LaPerm
- Origin: Oregon, United States
- Height: 6-10 inches
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
Well, if you ask me for an explanation about adding them to the list, then honestly, I don’t have an answer. People often call it ugly, but I find nothing ugly about it.
This breed can be dated back to the 1980s and has been around for around 40 years. They got their name because the coat looks like a perm.
Moreover, they have a charming personality. They are high on energy, love playing, and love attention and cuddles from their humans. If you decide to take them home, you will make a very good choice.
7. Lykoi
- Origin: Virginia, United States
- Height:8-10 inches
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
If you want a feline friend for your home, then you can get this “werewolf cat” or Lykoi to your house. They have a black or grey coat with large ears, giving them a distinctly werewolf-like appearance.
This is also a rare breed, and they might not be easily available. You will have to pay a significant amount to get your hands on them.
However, if you want a feline friend to purr on your lap and snuggle with you on the bed on a lazy Sunday afternoon, then think again. They are skilled hunters and highly active, so they will always be looking for something or other. But they love to stay around people.
Tale Of An Ugly Cat
There is an issue with ugly cat, as you say. People often think that their pet parent is not taking enough care of them, so they are losing their majestic appearance. That is not always the case.
Ms. Michelle Laver, a pet owner of a Cornish Rex named Lulu, complained several times that her neighbors would come to rescue her cat from her boat on the Grand Union Canal.
Lulu is an unusual-looking cat because of her breed. Ms. Laver mentioned in an interview with BBC, “A lot of people think she has been shaved or she’s abused or is a stray, despite the fact she has an [Apple] airtag, a QR code – and she’s got my name on her.”
Lulu is a friendly cat and greets strangers warmly. And many people think of her as a stray who needs a home. Ms. Laver has also informed Lulu’s vet of the issue, as many people often take her off the premises, thinking she needs care and treatment.
Not everyone is aware of the various cat breeds and their distinctive appearances. So, even though they are in good health, people often think they need care. So, it is time to spread awareness and not tag them as “ugly.”
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