8 “Ugly” Cats We Secretly Adore (Care Tips + Temperament Guide)

Don’t let the wrinkly skin, giant ears, or stubby legs fool you—distinctive is its own kind of cute. These eight high-ID breeds may defy the classic fluff-ball aesthetic, but they’re affectionate, clever, and ridiculously fun to live with. Below you’ll find personality notes, home care, and health watch-outs to help you decide if one fits your life.

1) Sphynx

• Look: Nearly hairless, lots of folds, huge ears—adorable little space elf.

• Personality: Velcro-kitty; social, curious, loves being involved.

• Care:

• Skin care weekly (gentle wipe/bath), clean ears and toe webs.

• Temperature control: needs warmth and sun protection.

• Allergy note: Hairless ≠ hypoallergenic; allergens are mostly saliva/skin proteins.

2) Don Sphynx / Donskoy

• Look: Russian hairless line; deeper wrinkles, athletic build, sometimes “webby” toes.

• Personality: Forms strong human bonds; very interactive.

• Care: Similar to Sphynx—skin hygiene + warmth are non-negotiable.

• FYI: Different hairless genetics from Sphynx—separate lineage.

3) Devon Rex

• Look: Short, soft curls, huge ears, “elfin” face, high cheekbones.

• Personality: Playful chatterbox; thrives on human interaction.

• Care:

• Less bathing, more gentle brushing to protect delicate coat/skin oils.

• Prone to waxy ears—routine cleaning helps.

• Home fit: Apartment-friendly but needs daily play and vertical space.

4) Cornish Rex

• Look: Ultra-short, tight “velvet” waves; sleek, whippety frame.

• Personality: Smart, people-oriented, energetic; great with kids/cats.

• Care:

• Thin coat → warmth matters.

• Provide climbing, sprint space, and brain games.

5) Munchkin (Short-Legged Cat)

• Look: Normal torso on short limbs; otherwise “classic housecat.”

• Personality: Cheerful, zippy, game for anything.

• Health & ethics:

• Short limbs can mean spine/joint load—choose responsible breeders, keep weight ideal, use ramps and lower jump heights.

• Consider joint supplements under vet guidance.

6) Lykoi (“Werewolf Cat”)

• Look: Patchy, sparse coat with intense stare—Halloween chic.

• Personality: Loyal shadow cat; observant and affectionate.

• Care:

• Gentle skin care, avoid harsh products.

• Routine vet checks for localized hair/skin changes.

7) American Curl

• Look: Ears curl backward; coat length and colors vary widely.

• Personality: Mild, social, adaptable; good family cat.

• Care:

• Handle ears carefully—no tugging; monitor ear edges/skin.

• Long-hair variants need regular brushing.

8) Scottish Fold

• Look: Round face, big round eyes, folded ears—perma-“aww” for many, “odd” for some.

• Personality: Sweet, calm, people-focused.

• Health & ethics:

• Folded ears link to cartilage/bone issues; some cats develop painful osteochondrodysplasia.

• Consider Scottish Straight (non-fold) or breeders who screen for skeletal health; prioritize comfort (ideal weight, ramps, joint care).

How to Choose (Quick Checklist)

• Temperament > Looks: Energy level, social needs, and alone-time tolerance matter more than “cute.”

• Allergy reality check: Test with the individual cat; reactions vary by cat and human.

• Home setup: Provide verticals (trees/shelves), scratchers, hideaways, sunny spots.

• Responsible sourcing: Ask for health testing (genetics, cardiac, skeletal), avoid extreme traits, and support ethical breeders—or adopt. Shelters often have wonderfully “unique-looking” gems.

Bottom Line

These “funny-faced” felines aren’t projects—they’re personalities with care notes. Some need extra skin care, others joint-smart environments; many are social butterflies who’ll follow you like a tiny supervisor. Choose thoughtfully, support ethical breeding or adoption, and you’ll gain a one-of-a-kind companion who’s gorgeous in their own glorious way.

animal tags： ugly cat

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a Animals Top editor.