Dwelf Cat: Breed History, Characteristics, Personality, and More

The Dwelf cat is a fairly new breed and is quite rare. They are a hairless designer breed with short legs and a long tail, giving them a stocky appearance. Another defining trait of the Dwelf is their ears slightly curl upward rather than standing straight up.

These felines have incredibly friendly and social personalities. They love to be around people and do not enjoy being left alone for long periods. Dwelf cats are ideal companions for individuals and families that are home a lot during the day.

Characteristics

Weight	4-9 pounds
Height	6-7 inches
Colors and Patterns	their wrinkly, hairless skin ranges from light pink to black
Lifespan	12-15 years
Suitable for	single people, families, seniors, anyone who spends most of their time at home

Breed History

The Dwelf is considered a new breed so it does not have an extensive history. The first one was introduced in 2008. Stephanie Osborne, a cat breeder from Arkansas, USA, named it the Dwelf because it combined “dwarf” and “elf“. ^[1]

It is a combination of three cat breeds- the Munchkin, American Curl, and the Sphynx. The peach fuzz-like texture of skin comes from the Sphynx, their curled ears come from the American Curl, and their small stature comes from the Munchkin.

Dwelves are a designer cat breed, which means they were developed by combining breeds with multiple mutations. Some believe that breeding such cats is unethical.

READ MORE: TOP-15 Smallest Cat Breeds You Can Own

Interesting Facts about Dwelf Cats

Grooming Needs

Some may assume that owning a hairless cat as a pet means that they are exempt from any grooming needs, but that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Since Dwelves are hairless, their skin needs extra attention. They don’t have fur to absorb oil from their skin, so they will need to be bathed on a regular basis (typically once per week) to keep their skin clean.

A build-up of too much oil on a Dwelf’s skin will make them feel greasy to the touch. To bathe them, simply use warm water and a medicated shampoo. Your vet can provide you with shampoo recommendations. Their blankets and bedding will need to be washed regularly as well.

It is extremely important for them to be kept indoors. They can get sunburned very easily. If for some reason, Dwelf cats need to go outside, it should not be for long and they should wear pet-safe sunscreen.

Since Dwelf cats are sensitive to heat, that also means that they are sensitive to the cold. When the temperature drops, they will need to wear sweaters to keep warm and should be provided with plenty of cozy blankets.

Some Dwelf cats have more wrinkly skin than others, but those wrinkles can trap oil which will cause bacteria to grow. The space between their wrinkles should be cleaned often, especially between their toes.

Their ears should also be cleaned regularly. Dwelf cats do not have hair inside their curled ears to catch and trap dirt, so it will build up in their ears much easier than most cats.

Health Problems

It is not uncommon for designer breeds to have some health issues. Since this breed is still so new, not much information is known about hereditary diseases. However, many feline experts feel that the Dwelf is at a higher risk of complications due to a smaller gene pool.

Their most common health problems pertain to their skin due to sensitivity. If their bathing and grooming maintenance is kept up, it will greatly lessen the chances of developing skin infections. Dwelf cats also are susceptible to ear infections, spine curvature (due to their long bodies), and joint problems.

Many hairless felines also have fast metabolisms and love to eat. They should not be overfed and should have a diet made up of high-quality ingredients. Talk to your veterinarian about food recommendations for your Dwelf. Overeating increases the risk of obesity. Even just a few extra pounds can be strenuous on their stocky bodies.

Dwelf Cat Personality and Temperament

The Dwelf cat breed personality is very social and friendly, but they also get very used to their routine and don’t respond to change well.

Once a Dwelf cat adapts to new people, pets, and their environment, they will become very affectionate. They enjoy the company of their owners and prefer not to be left alone for a long time. Dwelf cats don’t mind being held or picked up.

They like being around other cats, but with any new pet, introductions should be done slowly and carefully. Dwelf cats don’t mind children, as long as children know how to be gentle with them.

The chart below ranks various aspects of a Dwelf cat’s temperament and personality from 1 to 5, 5 being the highest:

Potential for playfulness	5
Activity level	5
Friendliness to other pets	5
Friendliness to children	4
Grooming requirements and shedding	3
Need for attention	4
Affection towards its owners	5
Intelligence	5
Independence	3

Activity

Dwelf cats are active, curious, and intelligent, so they will appreciate various toys and games that stimulate their minds. They will enjoy any interactive toy which is great for mental stimulation.

A classic cat toy is one with a ball and track. Your Dwelf cat can entertain itself with this toy when you are unable to play with them. 

Some of them enjoy climbing as well, so a cat tree would be ideal for them. This gives them the chance to exercise their muscular hind legs by jumping and climbing.

Adoption and Rescue

Dwelf cats are a rare breed, so finding one via shelter or rescue group is highly unlikely. Even the website Petfinder does not have any showing up if you search “Dwelf.” Since they are so rare, the best way to find a Dwelf cat is through a breeder.

Price and Breeders

If you purchase any particular breed from a breeder, it should be a reputable one. A trustworthy breeder is honest about their cats’ medical histories and records. They should also allow you to meet the litter’s parents and see where the cats are kept.  

A Dwelf kitten is pricey as well. You can expect to pay between $2,000 and $3,000 ^[2] due to their rarity. You may have to travel to go pick up your kitty since breeders are so few and far between.

Conclusion

Dwelves make great pets for anybody who spends a lot of time at home. Owners must understand their grooming needs and skin sensitivity, but their friendliness and goofy antics will keep you smiling.

Do plenty of research before bringing a Dwelf cat home so you can provide them a lifetime of being happy and healthy.

FAQs

Article Sources:

1. “Dwelf Cat Breeders and Information.” Kittens For Sale – from Local Cat Breeders, localkittensforsale.com/dwelf-cat-breeders-and-information/.
2. Richman, Olivia. “Dwelf Cat Breed: The Small, Bald, & Beautiful Feline Guide.” HolistaPet, 11 Aug. 2021, holistapet.com/cat-breeds/dwelf/.