They say beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but when it comes to certain cat breeds, even the most devoted feline lovers might do a double take. With their wrinkled skin, patchy fur, bat-like ears, and oddly shaped bodies, some cats are far from the fluffy, cuddly image most people have in mind.
But while they may not fit the traditional idea of cuteness, these most ugly cats are full of charm, intelligence, and personality. These breeds have fascinated cat lovers worldwide. These felines may look strange, but they’re loyal, playful, and surprisingly affectionate.
So, if you’ve ever wondered which cats are considered the most ugly cats in the world, get ready to meet some of the most unusual and unique felines out there. Who knows? You might just fall in love with one of them!
Most Ugly Cat Breeds
1. Devon Rex
At first glance, the Devon Rex looks like something out of a fantasy movie. With its huge bat-like ears, wide-set eyes, and curly fur, it has a distinct, almost alien-like appearance. Its fur is incredibly fine and often patchy, giving it a scruffy, unkempt look. Unlike the soft, plush coats of most cats, the Devon Rex’s coat feels more like suede, and some even have bald spots.
This breed originated in England in the 1950s, when a spontaneous mutation led to a cat with a short, curly coat. Devon Rex’s fur is extremely delicate and can be easily damaged by excessive grooming. Because of this, many Devon Rex cats have thin or nearly bald patches throughout their bodies, making them look even more unusual.
Looks aside, the Devon Rex is one of the most energetic and playful cats out there. They are always up to something—whether it’s climbing furniture, stealing food, or following their owners everywhere. They have a dog-like personality and thrive on human interaction.
Despite their mischievous nature, Devon Rex cats are incredibly loving. They adore being close to their humans and will often snuggle up under blankets or perch on their owner’s shoulder. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance cat, though, this breed might not be the best choice—these little troublemakers need constant stimulation and attention.
Overall, while the Devon Rex might not win any beauty contests, its playful and affectionate personality more than makes up for its odd looks. With their unique charm and quirky behavior, they quickly steal the hearts of those who meet them.
2. Lykoi
If you’ve ever wanted a pet that looks like a miniature werewolf, the Lykoi is the cat for you. With its patchy fur, piercing yellow eyes, and wrinkled skin, this breed looks like something out of a horror movie. But don’t let its eerie appearance fool you—Lykoi cats are some of the most affectionate, loyal felines you’ll ever meet.
The Lykoi breed is relatively new, first discovered in 2010 due to a natural genetic mutation found in domestic shorthair cats. Unlike most hairless breeds, the Lykoi isn’t completely bald—it has a thin, scruffy coat that falls out in patches, making it look even more bizarre. Because of this, they have earned the nickname “werewolf cats.”
They love following their owners around, often behaving more like dogs than cats. Their curious and intelligent nature means they’re always exploring their surroundings, and they enjoy interactive play. If you want a cat that will actively engage with you, the Lykoi is a great choice.
One interesting thing about Lykois is that their fur can change over time. Some will lose their hair completely and regrow it, while others remain patchy forever. This gives them a constantly changing look that only adds to their uniqueness. However, their thin fur offers little protection from the cold, so they’re best suited for indoor living.
While the Lykoi may not have the typical soft and fluffy look people associate with cats, their quirky personality and loyal nature make them an excellent companion. Once you get past their eerie werewolf-like face, you’ll find a cat that’s affectionate, playful, and incredibly unique.
3. Peterbald
If cats could be models for futuristic fashion magazines, the Peterbald would be on the cover. With its long, slender body, oversized ears, and nearly hairless skin, this breed has a striking and unusual look. Some might call it an ugly cat, while others find its sleek, elegant appearance captivating. Either way, the Peterbald is a breed that stands out.
Originating in Russia in the 1990s, the Peterbald was created by crossing a Don Sphynx with an Oriental Shorthair. The result was a cat with a hairless (or nearly hairless) body, long limbs, and a distinctive wedge-shaped head. While some Peterbalds are completely bald, others have a fine layer of peach-fuzz-like fur.
As mentioned by Omlet, these cats are highly social, intelligent, and affectionate. Unlike some aloof cat breeds, Peterbalds crave human attention and will follow their owners from room to room.
However, owning a Peterbald comes with some extra responsibility. Their lack of fur means they are sensitive to temperature changes, requiring warm environments to stay comfortable. Additionally, their skin produces oils that would normally be absorbed by fur, so they need regular baths to stay clean.
While the Peterbald’s unusual looks might not appeal to everyone, its graceful, affectionate, and friendly nature makes it a beloved pet for those who appreciate its unique charm. If you want a cat that is both striking in appearance and deeply loving, the Peterbald is an excellent choice.
4. Ukrainian Levkoy
If you’ve never seen a Ukrainian Levkoy before, your first reaction might be, “Is that even a cat?” With its wrinkled, hairless skin, folded ears, and long, slender body, this breed looks more like a strange mythical creature than a typical feline. But don’t let its unusual looks fool you—Ukrainian Levkoys are affectionate, intelligent, and incredibly social.
This breed is relatively new, first developed in Ukraine in the early 2000s by crossing Scottish Folds with hairless Donskoy cats. The result? A cat with soft, wrinkled, almost rubbery skin and those signature downward-folding ears. Ukrainian Levkoy has an angular, elongated face, giving it an almost alien-like expression.
Despite their odd appearance, Levkoys are some of the most loving and friendly cats around. They adore human companionship and will often follow their owners around the house, demanding attention. Ukrainian Levkoys crave social interaction and can even become lonely if left alone for too long. They’re also highly intelligent and enjoy puzzles, interactive play, and learning tricks.
Because they are mostly hairless, Levkoys need special care to stay comfortable. They are prone to feeling cold, so they often seek out warm spots around the house or snuggle under blankets. Their exposed skin also requires regular cleaning to prevent oil buildup, making them a bit more high-maintenance than your average cat.
While some might find the Ukrainian Levkoy’s wrinkled, folded appearance unsettling, others see them as a unique blend of elegance and strangeness. With their loyal nature and playful spirit, these odd-looking felines quickly become the heart of any household they join.
5. Minskin
Imagine a tiny cat with big ears, short legs, and almost no fur—that’s the Minskin for you. This unusual breed looks like a mix between a Sphynx, a Munchkin, and an alien, with its hairless body, stubby legs, and round eyes that seem far too big for its small face. It’s a cat that turns heads, whether from fascination or sheer confusion.
The Minskin was first developed in the early 2000s in the United States by crossing Munchkin cats with Sphynx cats. The goal was to create a breed with the short legs of a Munchkin and the hairlessness of a Sphynx—and it worked. These cats are incredibly small, with a compact body that makes them look permanently kitten-like.
Despite their tiny stature, Minskins have big personalities. They are energetic, playful, and full of mischief. They love climbing, exploring, and chasing after toys, even though their short legs sometimes make jumping a challenge. Their affectionate nature means they’re happiest when cuddling with their humans, and they are known for their loyal, dog-like behavior.
Since Minskins have very little fur, they need extra warmth, just like other hairless breeds. They love cozying up under blankets, sitting near heaters, or snuggling into warm laps. Their skin also requires gentle cleaning to prevent oil buildup, so regular baths are a must.
While the Minskin might not be everyone’s idea of beauty, those who own one will tell you they’re charming, loving, and endlessly entertaining. If you want a cat that’s both adorably weird and full of personality, the Minskin is a perfect choice.
6. Sphynx
No list of most ugly cats would be complete without the Sphynx. This breed is perhaps the most well-known hairless cat, as noted by WebMD, famous for its wrinkled skin, large ears, and striking, almost human-like eyes. Some find them elegant, others find them a little creepy—but no one can deny that they are one of the most unique-looking cats in the world.
The Sphynx breed first appeared in Canada in the 1960s, when a genetic mutation produced a hairless kitten. Breeders selectively developed this trait, creating the wrinkle-skinned, bald beauty we know today. While they may look completely naked, Sphynx cats actually have a fine layer of peach-fuzz-like fuzz that gives them a soft, velvety feel.
Beyond their alien-like appearance, Sphynx cats are known for being extremely affectionate and social. They love human interaction and will often cuddle up to their owners for warmth and companionship. Sphynxes are highly attached to their humans and don’t do well being left alone for long periods.
Caring for a Sphynx is a bit different from caring for a regular cat. Because they don’t have fur to absorb body oils, their skin gets greasy quickly, meaning they need regular baths to stay clean. They also get cold easily, so many Sphynx owners buy them cute little sweaters to keep them cozy.
While their lack of fur, wrinkly skin, and intense stare might make some people uneasy, Sphynx cats are full of love and personality. They are playful, affectionate, and always ready to snuggle, proving that beauty isn’t just about looks—it’s about charm, too!
7. Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex may not be hairless, but it definitely isn’t your average fluffy cat. With its curly fur, giant ears, green eyes and slender body, it looks like a mix between a greyhound and a bat. Its unique coat is short, soft, and wavy, but often appears patchy or thin, making it look scruffy compared to other breeds.
This breed originated in Cornwall, England, in the 1950s, when a genetic mutation caused a kitten to be born with curly fur instead of a normal coat. Breeders loved the unique look and worked to develop the Cornish Rex, a cat known for its wavy, soft fur and playful personality.
One of the most endearing things about the Cornish Rex is its high-energy, playful nature. These cats love to jump, run, and climb, often behaving more like kittens even into old age. They’re known as the clowns of the cat world, always entertaining their owners with silly antics and endless energy.
Unlike fluffy cats, Cornish Rexes don’t have a thick undercoat, which means they get cold easily. They love to curl up in warm spots or snuggle into blankets to keep cozy. Their thin fur also means they shed less, making them a good option for people with mild allergies.
Though they might not have luxurious coats, Cornish Rexes have an irresistible charm. Their quirky looks, fun-loving personality, and affectionate nature make them a fantastic pet for anyone who loves a cat with character.
Conclusion
So, are these the ugliest cats in the world, or are they actually some of the most unique and charming? While their hairless bodies, patchy fur, and unusual features might not appeal to everyone, each of these breeds has something special to offer. Whether it’s the playfulness of the Cornish Rex, the loyalty of the Lykoi, or the affectionate nature of the Sphynx, these so-called most ugly cats prove that beauty isn’t everything.
In the end, it’s not about looks—it’s about personality, companionship, and love. And if you ask any owner of these unique breeds, they’ll tell you: these cats might be strange, but they are absolutely irresistible.
What do you think? Do you find these cats fascinating or a little too unusual? Let us know in the comments—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
