Cats are often admired for their grace and beauty, but some felines don’t fit the traditional mold of cute and fluffy. Some cats have features that might be considered “ugly” by conventional standards but are unique features that make them special. Be it a face full of wrinkles, a hairless body, or an uncommon expression, these cats have their own charm.
This guide sets out to determine what constitutes an “ugly cat,” the reasons they need and deserve love and appreciation, and which breeds of cats are famous for their offbeat looks.
What Makes a Cat “Ugly”
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and what one person considers an undesirable cat, another person thinks is absolutely cute. Generally speaking, the term “ugly cat” describes felines that have features quite different from the normal fluffy, round-faced cats filling social media.
Some common features of these ugly cats include the following:
- Wrinkled or folded skin
- Lack of fur or patchy coats
- Unusual facial expressions
- Large ears or mismatched features
- Short legs or elongated bodies
Though these cats might not be traditionally handsome, they each have a very devoted group of fans who find their sometimes goofy and singularly unique appearance highly appealing.
Breed Types of Ugly Cats
There are several breeds of cats that are known for their unusual or unique appearance. Though they may not have the typical cute features of a Persian or a Maine Coon, these cats are just as affectionate.
Sphynx
The sphinx is a hairless breed recognized by its wrinkled skin, large ears, and well-defined cheekbones. Their appearance can be jolting if a person is not used to them, but they are loving and social dogs that crave attention.
| Trait | Description |
| Fur | Hairless |
| Ears | Large and bat-like |
| Personality | Playful, affectionate, social |
Lykoi (Werewolf Cat)
Original name of the lykoi, the “werewolf cat,” has patchy fur giving it a wild scruffy look with its partial hair coat; areas are sometimes bare making it look unkempt. Despite such rough looks, they are really intelligent and love human companionship.
Devon Rex
The devon rex has a tiny face, oversized ears, and a wavy coat, so they look a bit different from other cats. Their elfin-like features along with their slender body often raise eyebrows, but their playful, affectionate nature quickly wins over hearts.
Exotic Shorthair
The exotic shorthair has also been called the “ugly-cute” breed due to its flat face, big round eyes, and chubby cheeks. Its features seem exaggerated in their presentation, in comparison to traditionally beautiful cat breeds. Nevertheless, this breed is extremely affectionate and laid back, making it a popular favorite among many feline lovers.
Peterbald
Yet another breed of hairless cat, the peterbald differs from the sphynx in that its body is longer and slender. Wrinkled skin with a long face adds to give this cat its uniqueness. The Peterbalds are really social and fond of being with people.
Why Ugly Cats Are Just as Lovable
However, the beautiful thing about these cats is that although some people may find them a little odd at first, they have huge personalities and hearts. Here’s why “ugly” cats are just as lovable as their fatter, cuter mates.
Unique Personalities
Cats with unusual looks generally have personalities that are quirky and entertaining. Most of these breeds are far more social and attached to their owners, unlike other types of cats.
Less Shedding and Grooming
Hairy and short-haired breeds do not require so much brushing and grooming; hence, they are just perfect for those who prefer pets that are less demanding.
Striking Appearance
Wherever these cats go, heads turn. Their unconventional beauty makes them a standout from other cats, hence making them a favorite in the online cat community.
Social Media Fame
Some of the internet’s most famous cats are “ugly” by traditional standards. These felines have come to amass millions of adoring fans for their looks alone, let alone their charming personalities.
Famous Ugly Cats on the Internet
The rise in popularity of social media has propelled these unconventional-looking felines into the limelight and, quite literally, adoration. Some of the most popular internet cats have been celebrated due to their very unique features.
| Cat | Description |
| Wilfred | Persian cat with an unusually unique underbite |
| Monty | Cat with chromosomal abnormalities that give him a unique face |
| Loki | Sphynx cat with a permanent grumpy expression |
| Zuu | Exotic shorthair with a chubby, surprised look |
| Atchoum | Cat with an unusual fur growth disorder |
These cats prove that beauty is subjective and that personality and uniqueness matter more than conventional good looks.
How to Care for Cats with Unusual Features
Special tips are available if you are going to adopt an unusual-looking cat.
Grooming Needs
The breeds without fur, such as sphynx and peterbald, require skin care since they build up oil on them and sometimes need a bath. Unusual fur patterns, such as those of the lykoi, can require more brushing.
Health Considerations
Some of those fancy cats have genetic problems and need special care. Flat-faced breeds, such as exotic shorthairs, can have respiratory problems, and the hairless ones can be sensitive to temperature extremes.
Nutrition and Hydration
A good diet is the key to keeping your cat healthy. Hairless breeds need more food because their metabolism is much faster, as they tend to burn more calories in order to keep warm.
Enrichment and Play
Strangely-looking cats are usually high-energy animals that require mental stimulation, which can be provided through playtime with interactive toys, climbing structures, and puzzle feeders.
Do Ugly Cats Show More Affection?
According to a number of owners of cats that fall under the category of being ugly, these cats are much more affectionate than typical breeds. Though each cat has a different character, many of these ugly cats seem to easily attach themselves to the owners and crave social interaction.
Breeds such as the sphynx, devon rex, and lykoi are extremely affectionate and clingy, always following their owners and wanting to be the center of attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ugliest breed of cat?
There is no such thing as an ugly cat, but some breeds, such as the sphinx, lykoi, and devon rex, are considered unusual in appearance.
Are ugly cats more difficult to adopt?
Sometimes, cats with more unusual appearances can take longer to get adopted simply because people might overlook them. But for many cat lovers, they are just the ones owners are looking for.
Do ugly cats have health problems?
Litters of some breeds can be prone to genetic health issues, such as respiratory problems in very flat-faced cats or skin conditions in hairless cats.
Why do people love ugly cats?
Their unusual appearance, combined with their playfulness and affection, makes them special to those who appreciate different types of beauty.
Can ugly cats be show cats?
Many of these breeds are used in cat shows, as organizations like The International Cat Association consider them to be official breeds.
