I’m sure many people would find these little guys cringe-worthy. They’re far from the designer pets that serve as mere accessories these days.

But I find hairless animals exceptionally interesting. The lack of fur draws attention to the actual expression of the animal. They look like they have PERSONALITY, like they just…know things.

(Who would dare mess with this animal?)

If I ever opened a cabinet and found this guy staring straight at me, I’d certainly be curious about him, after catching the breath that had just been shocked out of me.

Although originally the result of a genetic mutation or severe immune deficiency, there’s a growing trend in breeding hairless pets. But breeders beware…painful conditions often accompany hairless mutations. The infamous ear fusion experiment still upsets me, especially because in later photos the mouse looks like he’s absolutely praying for grim death to come take him.