Any breeder of these exotic cats can tell the difference between a Don Sphynx and a Peterbald. However, for the average cat lover, it's not so obvious. There are several obvious characteristics that, once you know them, will help you never confuse the two breeds.
Don Sphynx: characteristics
The Don Sphynx is a very large and compact cat.
Donchaks have a fairly robust build for a Sphynx: they have well-developed muscles and strong bones. Adult cats have a noticeable rounded belly. The tail is straight, not too thin, long, and very flexible.
The head is wedge-shaped, but the outlines are softened, the profile is harmonious. The jaws and brow ridges are well defined. A characteristic feature is the absence of whiskers. Some animals have them, but they are short and curled. The eyes are almond-shaped, slanted, and always slightly squinted. The muzzle is adorned with large, high-set, sensitive ears.
Don Chaks have virtually no fur, although a small amount may remain on their paws, tail, and ears. Kittens are born completely hairless. Any color is acceptable, but bicolored individuals are very common.
Characteristics of Peterbalds
The Peterbald is a graceful and elegant breed.
Peterbalds were developed by crossing Orientals and Don Sphynxes. These cats are distinguished by a harmonious and graceful build, with tall, moderately slender legs, a flexible back, and a neat, slightly elongated body. The neck is flexible and strong, and the head is relatively small and neat. The muzzle is elongated and expressive, with a characteristic "Egyptian" profile. This breed has extremely expressive ears: large, low-set, beautifully spread, slightly reminiscent of wings.
Despite the fact that Peterbalds are considered "hairless" cats, they have a fairly noticeable coat. A full-body fur coat isn't considered a fault, but fine, silky fur most often adorns the animal's face, ears, and paw tips. Colors vary widely, with breeders distinguishing between velour, brushed, flocked, "naked," and several others.
Main differences between breeds
Once you learn about the characteristic features of the breeds, you can stop worrying about confusing them.
Peterbalds are more graceful and slender, with very fine skin gathered in numerous folds and often covered in down. The cat has a velvety appearance and is very pleasant to the touch. Don Sphynxes are not completely covered in folds, but are concentrated on the head, neck, chest, groin, and under the arms. The skin is hairless, and the colors are much more varied than those of Peterbalds.
Don Sphynxes are distinguished by their large, high-set ears and slightly rounded muzzle. Peterbalds have a long nose and large, harmonious ears set wide apart. Don Sphynxes have almond-shaped, slanted eyes, while Peterbalds have more rounded, medium-sized eyes. Yellow or orange irises are rare in Peterbalds; they are usually blue or green. Don Sphynxes can have any eye color.
A close look at Peterbalds and Don Chaks reveals many differences. However, their maintenance requirements are similar, and the breeds get along well together.
