Pet Wiki

Bambino

Provisionally recognisedShort profile

From United States (Arkansas), 20051

At a glance the quick version

Height18 to 20 cm2
Lifespan9 to 15 years2
Sizesmall
outgoing and affectionate
playful, agile and full of mischief
friendly with handling and very people-oriented
32

Coat and looks how to spot one

hairless to light down, short-legged

A small, stocky and muscular cat on short legs, with a wedge-shaped head, big wide-set almond eyes and large ears. The skin feels like warm, soft suede and may be completely bare or carry a faint fuzz, and the slim tail tapers like a whip.32

Coloursall colours and patterns (REFR standard)3

Personality what they are like

A bright, sociable little cat that loves interacting with its people and is happy to be handled. It has a cheeky, lively streak and enjoys games around the house.32

Daily activity how busy a day looks

High. Runs, jumps and plays around the home much like a longer-legged cat; daily interactive play suits it well.23

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

With little or no hair, the skin needs gentle baths with warm water and a mild cat-safe wash on a regular basis, plus routine checks of ears, eyes and nails.2

Home where they are happiest

An indoor home kept comfortably warm; a cat jumper in cold weather and shade from strong sun help the bare skin.2

Company who they like around

Very people-focused and thrives on company and shared play.2

The story where it all began

Stephanie and Pat Osborne of Holy Moly Cattery in Arkansas created the Bambino in 2005 by crossing the hairless Sphynx with the short-legged Munchkin. TICA listed it as an experimental new breed the following year.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    'Bambino' is Italian for 'baby', a nod to the cat's small size.1

  2. 2

    Litters can include both short-legged and long-legged kittens, which differ only in leg length.3

  3. 3

    The REFR standard describes the skin as feeling like warm, supple suede.3

  4. 4

    Its whip-like tail can end in a small 'lion tuft' of hair.3

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name Bambino means "baby" in Italian, reflecting its small stature and kitten-like appearance.4

Name ideas for your new friend

ZippySqueakPocketGizmoPeanutBellaMochiNuggetTinkerWhiskPixieRascal

A day in the life told by a Bambino

This morning, I stretched my tiny legs and leaped onto the windowsill to watch the birds. My human laughed and called me a little acrobat. I chased a jingly ball across the rug, then curled up on their lap for a nap. When the doorbell rang, I trotted over to greet the visitor, I love meeting new friends! Later, I batted at a feather toy until I was dizzy. Now I'm purring on the sofa, thinking about tomorrow's adventures.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

TICA
Experimental new breed since 20061
REFR (Rare and Exotic Feline Registry)
Registered breed with a written standard3

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Bambino. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Bambino tip

Choose high-protein, low-carb treats to support your Bambino's obligate carnivore needs, and always measure portions to prevent weight gain that strains the spine. For dental health, consider dental treats or water additives, but consult your vet before introducing new chews.

Source: petmd.com vet.cornell.edu

Cat-Friendly Pancakes

A simple, no-bake treat that is high in protein and low in fat, making it a suitable occasional reward for cats who gain weight easily.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water, no salt added
  • 1/2 cup finely diced cooked chicken
  • 1/2 cup pure sweet potato puree (no added sweeteners)

How

  1. Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
  2. Break the tuna into small bits with a fork.
  3. Add the diced chicken to the bowl.
  4. Slowly stir in the sweet potato puree until the mixture binds together, being careful not to make it too watery.
  5. Shape the mixture into mini pancakes.
  6. Serve to your cat as an occasional treat.

How much: Give small amounts occasionally, as treats should not exceed 10-15% of daily calorie allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Tuna Biscuits for Cats

These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.

You need

  • 1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
  • Extra water as needed

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
  4. Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
  5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  6. Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
  7. Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
  8. Allow to cool completely before storing.

How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.

Recipe from PDSA

Tuna Catnip Biscuits

A vet-approved recipe from PDSA that uses simple ingredients to create a tasty, crunchy treat your cat will love.

You need

  • 145g tuna chunks in spring water
  • 120g plain flour
  • 1 tablespoon dried catnip
  • 1 egg

How

  1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan).
  2. Drain the tuna and mix it with the flour, catnip and egg in a bowl until a dough forms.
  3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
  4. Use a small cookie cutter to cut out biscuit shapes.
  5. Place the biscuits on a greased baking tray and bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
  6. Allow to cool completely before serving.

How much: One biscuit equals 10% of your cat's recommended daily calories. Reduce their main meal by 10% on treat days.

Recipe from PDSA

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Bambino, and at what times?

Feeding frequency and times vary by your cat's age and individual needs. Ask your vet or a good breeder for a schedule that suits your Bambino.

What should a Bambino eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality commercial cat food that is complete and balanced. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for portion sizes.5

Does a Bambino need baths?

Yes, Bambinos need regular baths because their hairless skin builds up oils. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a gentle bath every two weeks using warm water and a mild cat-safe wash.2 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Bambino need brushing?

Bambinos have little to no hair, so brushing is not needed. Instead, focus on regular gentle baths to keep their skin clean.2

How do I trim a Bambino's claws, and how often?

Trim your Bambino's claws every three weeks as a starting plan. Use proper cat nail clippers and trim only the tip to avoid the quick; if unsure, ask your vet for a demonstration.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much play does a Bambino need?

Bambinos have high energy and need daily interactive play sessions. They love games and will enjoy chasing toys and playing with you.32 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Bambino's teeth and ears?

Clean your Bambino's ears weekly with a gentle wipe to remove wax. Brush their teeth daily if possible, or at least every other day, using a vet-approved toothpaste.2 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Bambino live?

A Bambino typically lives between 9 and 15 years with good care.2

Is a Bambino good with children and other pets?

Bambinos are sociable and enjoy being handled, so they can be good with children and other pets when introduced calmly and respectfully. Always supervise early interactions.2

Can a Bambino be left alone?

Bambinos are very people-focused and thrive on company, so they may not like being left alone for long periods. Provide plenty of interactive toys and attention when you are home.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Bambino cat - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, founders, recognition, name
  2. Bambino - PetGuide petguide.comused for weight, height, lifespan, care, activity
  3. Bambino - Rare and Exotic Feline Registry rareexoticfelineregistry.comused for standard, skin, colours, temperament, facts
  4. cathatch.com cathatch.com
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.