Hairless pets come in a variety of species including cats, dogs, rats, and guinea pigs. At first glance some people may find their appearance alien-like or off putting, but as many lovers of hairless pets will tell you they have many endearing and unique qualities. No hair on your furniture or clothes, you’ll save a tonne on lint rollers, they are low allergen pets, accepting of sweaters, and love to cuddle on cold days. However, these pets are not without their own unique needs.
- Frostbite and Hypothermia: Again, without a built in protective coat these pets are more susceptible to cold temperatures. They should wear sweaters, and boots if they will be going outside, or sweaters inside if it is particularly cold.
- Dietary Needs: These pets need to be on high quality veterinary prescribed pet foods. They burn more energy for thermoregulation (maintain the correct body temperature), and utilize more essential vitamins and minerals to keep their skin barrier in peak health.
- Omega Fatty Acids: Without hair to hold on to their natural body oils these pets have an increased need for moisture on the skin, the easiest way is to provide them with an omega fatty acid supplement to support their skin health.
- Grooming: Though these pets often do not require extensive grooming, they do still need the occasional bath and brushing. Brushing not only prevents tangling of any fine hairs they do have, but also helps spread their natural oils around the skin. Unlike their furry counterparts, hairless pets should use a soft bristled or baby brush. For bathing they require a very gentle shampoo, such as Douxo Chlorhexidine or Miconahex Tris.
- Ear wax build up is more common as they do not have guard hairs protecting their ear canals. It is recommended to use a good ear cleaner such as Douxo Micellear ear cleaning solution every 1 to 2 weeks.
