Sphynx
Despite being almost entirely hairless, the Sphynx cat still needs plenty of grooming.
About the Sphynx
The term “velcro lap cat” has been used to describe the desire of the Sphynx to be on their owner all the time. The Sphynx is sweet-tempered, lively, intelligent and above all happy to be handled.
Sphynx love to greet every new person visiting the home, and will get along well with dogs and other pets. Sphynx are highly active and will entertain themselves for hours, many even fetching toys. These cats are loyal and dedicated to their owners.
Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from World Cat Congress (WCC)
Breed specifics
- Size category
- Medium
- Avg life expectancy
- 15–20 years
Affectionate / Even-tempered / Lively / Intelligent / Sociable / Quiet
Key facts
Origins of the breed
Hairless cats have appeared from time to time and in different parts of the world. The most notable is probably the Mexican Hairless, which is believed to date back to pre-Columbian times and which was recorded at the beginning of the 20th century in Frances Simpson’s well-known book “The Book Of The Cat”.
Other examples have also been found in different areas, particularly in Russia, which has developed the Don Sphynx and the Peterbald. The Sphynx, as we know it, dates back to the 1960’s, when a hairless kitten was born to a domestic cat in Ontario, Canada. Attempts to breed more hairless cats from this kitten were partially successful.
A Sphynx's life story
Find out how to care for the Sphynx in each stage of their life.Up to 12 months
Sphynx kitten
Sphynx cats are very sociable and as such are not suited to life on their own. If they will often be in the home without their owners, it’s recommended to adopt a second kitten.
Behaviour
The Sphynx is known to be one of the most affectionate breeds, and paired with their intelligence, this makes them a popular choice for family pets. As kittens, they form strong bonds with their owners, and will follow them before curling up with them at the end of the day.
Sphynx kittens are patient with children and other family pets, however, they are very demanding of their owner’s attention. Plenty of toys and a cat tree are recommended for this intelligent cat to keep them occupied and able to survey their surroundings from a high vantage point.
From 12 months
Sphynx adult
The Sphynx cat has a number of unique requirements to be aware of to ensure they lead healthy adult lives.
Grooming and living requirements
Despite their appearance, the adult Sphynx requires regular grooming. Other breeds are able to absorb body oils into their fur to keep their coats healthy and skin clean, however, as the Sphynx doesn’t have a coat, they need regular bathing to remove the oils and wash away any dirt that may build up.
Even as adults, Sphynx should be kept indoors as their incredibly fine, down-like hair means they can easily get burnt by the sun. Sphynx adapt very quickly to indoor life and will enjoy exercising in the form of active games and even playing fetch with their owners.
Sphynx health and ageing
The Sphynx’s affectionate character is known to last well into old age. That being said, their health and nutritional needs will change as they grow older. It is a good idea to arrange regular check-ups with a vet at this stage, as they will be able to advise on any nutritional changes or health problems that ageing may bring.
Health condition
Sphynx cats’ main feature is the absence of a fur coat. And even though they are not entirely hairless, their fine, downy hair exposes their delicate skin to harmful ultraviolet light and make skin injury much more likely. Sphynx skin may be prone to yeast infections and they are susceptible to cold and to sunburn if they go outside. We advise you to acquire from a responsible breeder or shelter and to seek advice from your veterinarian as needed.
