For many animals, fur is essential because it offers much-needed insulation from the cold. Additionally, it lends them their unique appearances; certain species may not even be recognizable when entirely bald.
A critter that resembles a hairless cat but is actually more rarer was recently taken in by rescuers. Continue reading to find out more about this unusual species and her improbable survival.
The most odd animal was adopted by Hope for Wildlife, a nonprofit conservation organization in Nova Scotia, last month. The Canadian Press reports that a couple in West Arichat found the animal, suffering in the cold, in their backyard.
The creature appears to be a Sphynx cat at first glance, but it is actually a raccoon with no hair at all!
Without their distinctive mask-like fur pattern, raccoons are undoubtedly difficult to identify. This small northern raccoon has severe alopecia, which has left it entirely bald.
There have been examples of balding raccoons in the past, according to the rescue, but nothing like this: “It’s just tufts of fur around the snout, ankles, and feet.” The head of Hope for Wildlife, Hope Swinimer, told The Canadian Press, “This is a serious case.”
The raccoon, named Rufus after the naked mole rat character from the Kim Possible cartoon, is actually a girl.
Although the cause of her hair loss has not yet been fully determined, the rescue stated on Facebook that it may be an autoimmune disease that damages her hair follicles. Her skin seemed healthy, so they ruled out other possible reasons like parasites, mange, and fungal illnesses.
The rescuers were shocked that Rufus had lived this long because raccoons rely on their fur to remain warm and shield their skin from the weather.
“We are astonished that this petite woman survived the winter without fur and without getting frostbite or worse,” they posted on Facebook.
“Her successful survival was all her own doing,” they continued, adding she had a “feisty” disposition. She was apparently “down and out upon arrival,” thus it appears that she was saved just in time.
For a few brief hours, we were in a panic, but she eventually came out because she was hungry. Swinimer told The Canadian Press, “We’ve seen a big improvement since she first arrived, and she’s getting quite feisty.”
Given the situation, Rufus may end up staying at the shelter permanently. He will have access to a specific habitat, an outdoor area where he can crawl to stay warm, and facilities like nesting boxes and hammocks.
A hairless raccoon is something we have never seen before! We’re happy that Rufus was discovered and is receiving quality care; it’s amazing that she has survived in the wild for such a long time.
If you are an animal lover, please share this fascinating story!
