by Danelle Karth

Created on: June 21, 2010

The Elf Cat is one of the many hybrid cats out there. A hybrid cat breed is one that is man made by crossing very distinct breeds together to produce offspring that are also very distinct. Usually this is done with a small to medium wild cat being crossed with a domestic cat. In many cases there are a few different combinations that produce the look that is accepted in the breed. The Elf Cat is a little of an unusual hybrid because it is made up of only one specific crossing and neither of the lineage parents are wild because it comes from crossing a Sphynx (Canadian Sphynx) and an American Curl.

Both the Sphynx and the American Curl have very distinct appearances. The Sphynx is a "hairless" cat. It doesn't have a traditional coat and appears to be naked. It is covered with very short, peach like fuzz. It also has large, dominant ears that draw the attention. In a similar manner the American Curl draws attention with its ears as well! Unlike a sphynx the American curl doesn't have large ears, rather they are ears that curl back and appear to be a similar shape as a rose bud.

Because of its lineage the ears of the Elf Cat are what draws the attention first. They tend to be large, prominent, and curled giving this cat an "elfish" appearance. The breed standard requires that the ear curl at least 90 degrees, but it can't touch the back of the ear at a 180 degree angle. In addition to the very distinct ears, the Elf Cat is to appear hairless like it's sphynx parent with no hair or a very short fuzz. Additionally the Elf Cat should appear to be healthy and strong with a medium to large build. 

This breed is fairly new, but is gaining more attention and popularity. Additionally it is gaining more recognition and is now allowed to be shown under "new traits" of the sphynx at cat shows. While many people feel that hybrids in general are wrong, this breed has been chosen and combined for optimum health in addition to the specific characteristics that give it an elf like appearance. So far there have been no negative results from combining these two standing breeds together or in dealing with their specific mutations. 

In addition to the Elf Cat being a healthy and interesting cat with more and more attention and acceptance, it is also a great pet. This cat is very affectionate and often cuddly because of its lack of fur. It is a happy, go lucky type of cat. Elf cats present great personalities and are very interactive.

It should be noted that some people are selling "Elf cats" of a different sort. They are breeding sphynx cats with highlander and the highlander lynx. These breeds were not chosen by the original breeders when creating the elf cat because of other genetic mutations present and because they are not as healthy as the American curl. It should also be noted that many breeders will inbreed their cats to produce the features they want without additional animals. This can cause a number of health problems. Because of these issues an appropriate breeder should be carefully chosen. One that is recognized as an elf cat breeder is the best option.

The Elf cat is a unique look with a fantastic personality. As the breed gains popularity and acceptance there are also more and more show animals available for those interested in showing off their beautiful friend. The breed is also standing strong on developing good genetics that are strong, healthy, and broad. The original breeders who developed the breed are aiming for beautiful cats that have elf like ears, a hairless appearance, a great personality, and great health.

Learn more about this author, Danelle Karth.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.