Bambino
The Bambino, Italian word for ‘Baby’, is a mutated cat breed of between a Sphynx and a Munchkin. The unique features that distinguish a Bambino are short legs, upright ears and a hairless body.
Breed Profile
Height
6 – 8
Inches
Weight
5 – 9
Pounds
Life Span
9 – 15
Years
Health
health
Lordosis
What is it?:
It is a common problem found in Munchkin cats where the spine curves excessively inwards, putting pressure on other organs. In extreme cases, it can be fatal as well.
Clinical signs
Buttocks or stomach area sticking out
Discomfort while lying down on stomach
Visible unusuality in the spine
Treatment
This condition may require a surgery
Eligible vet bill
$4,000
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
health
Osteoarthritis
What is it?:
It is similar to the human condition where the tissues in the joints such as bones and cartilage breakdown leading to weaker muscles
Clinical signs
This problem can be genetic or can even be caused by some injury, infection or inflammation or obesity. The common signs to look out for here are
Reduction in mobility
Reduction in activities like jumping and leaping
Longer claws resulting because of low activities and thus low sharpening of them
Increased irritation or even avoidance from interaction with people in some cases
Treatment
Treatment may require prescription medication
Eligible vet bill
$350
*Hypothetical reimbursement examples illustrate reimbursement of an eligible vet bill at the noted reimbursement rate, assuming the annual deductible had already been satisfied and the annual coverage limit has not yet been met. Annual deductible, co-insurance, benefit and coverage limits, and exclusions may apply. Eligibility may vary. Visit https://spotpet.com/spot-sample-policy.pdf for full terms. For Canada enrollments only, reimbursement rate is based on the pet's age.
Personality
Playful
Bambinos love to be surrounded by people and play around them.
Delicate
Due to their hairless-tender skin, they are always more prone to injuries and skin scratches while playing. One needs to be very careful around them
Vocal
Bambino cats are known to be one of the most vocal cats. So be ready for a lot of ‘Meows’ and ‘Purrrs’
Lifetime Care
Coat
Although hairless, there is a fine downy fur on the Bambinos
Colors
You can find a Bambino in black, white, cream, brown and fawn shades
Hypoallergenic
Yes
Grooming
Being hairless is prone to oil accumulation, infections and being greasy. So, a Bambino cat will need a regular bath. In most cases, once a week bath, ear and teeth cleaning would suffice. It is advised to use wipes on the non-bath days.
Training
Bambinos can be trained easily due to their people pleasing nature. They may not be brilliant but won’t give you a hard time in giving them basic training
The Bambino breed is a comparatively newer one. It was a result of an experiment. Some animal welfare bodies have even banned the breeding of Bambinos. And unlike popular belief, some of them can have hair and even long legs.
Bambino Cat: Introduction to the Breed
It is established that the breed here is a delicate one and requires some extra care. So, it becomes very necessary that you know everything before adopting one of them. Here are a few things you need to know about the Bambino cat breed.
Bambino Cats are generally:
Playful and affectionate
Moderate in terms in energy levels
Sociable and great with kids
Low maintenance apart from their skin care
Things to watch-out before deciding to own a Bambino Cat
Although this breed scores highly on a human-friendliness matric there might be some pointers that you might want to check-out before bringing it home to your family
They are very prone to diseases given their hairless and delicate body
High chances of sunburns. A sun-coat becomes extremely necessary if you are taking them outdoors
Higher levels of grooming requirement
A controversial breed due to its genetic deformity
Rare and thus very costly
Will need a jacket in the winter
They eat a lot
Bambino Cats are best suited for –
Existing pet parents
Families who prefer indoors over outdoors
What should your Bambino cat eat?
Bambino cats are by nature obligate carnivores. Thus, their meals should always be high in protein. Also, to make sure it’s given in the right proportion as you want to avoid obesity which can cause several problems including diabetes in them. 3-4 small meals would be good. The ideal diet for them should be
High in protein (30-35% in daily diet)
Low in carbohydrates
Moderate in fats
Comparatively more calories to stay warm
The food list can include
Lean meat like chicken
Turkey
Salmon
What should your Bambino cat NOT eat?
The items not to include in its diet include
Onions
Garlic
Raisins
Grapes
Tea
Coffee
Conclusion
A Bambino in your house would probably be the rarest thing you own. With its blue eyes and soft-silky and hairless skin, active and playful nature, you are in for a treat. But also, to keep in mind that these cats are expensive and do need a lot of attention and care and are also very susceptible to diseases. So, if these things don’t worry you then go for it because your family is going to love it!
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