Spectacular Sphynx! Everything You Need to Know about Sphynx Cats

The Sphynx cat breed has captured the hearts of feline lovers all around the globe. Even if you’ve never met a Sphynx cat, you’re sure to be familiar with them. These felines have a unique hairless appearance that makes them truly unforgettable! All domesticated kitties share a common history, so you’re probably wondering how the Sphynx ended up looking so different from their furrier fellow felines. Curious to know more about this interesting breed? Cat in a Flat dives into the history and facts of the Sphynx cat! 

Where does the Sphynx cat originate from?

Where does the Sphynx cat originate from? If you’re thinking that the stately Sphynx must surely come from somewhere like Egypt, guess again. This feline breed originated in Toronto, Canada, where the first one was born in 1966. This Sphynx, who was (somewhat appropriately) named Prune, was born without hair. Prune had a special gene that caused hairlessness, and she went on to mother many more Sphynx fur(less) friends. 

Because of their unique appearance, breeders took a special interest in maintaining the Sphynx cat breed. To date, this is the only breed to have originated in Canada, and Sphynx kitties have since made their way around the world. 

Main characteristics of Sphynx cats

Here are the main characteristics of Sphynx cats:

Size

This breed is a medium-sized feline that can weigh between 2.5 – 4 kg (for females), and 3.5 – 5 kg (for males). They are roughly 20-25 cm tall and can be remarkably robust and muscular. Due to their lack of fur, their bone structure is quite visible. Without all that added fluff, it means it’s easier to spot when Mr Whiskers is overweight too!

Appearance

Sphynx cats have a wedge-shaped head as well as large eyes and ears. They also have long legs and a long tail. The amount of ‘fuzz’ can vary from one kitty to the next. Some are covered all over in a fine fuzz, while others may only have patches on their extremities. Even though they don’t have fur coats in the traditional sense, Sphynx cats can still come in a variety of colors and patterns—which can be seen by the pigmentation on their skin. 

Personalities

If you’re a fan of Friends, you probably remember an episode where Rachel gets a Sphynx cat. And this may have left you with the impression that these types of cats are rude and unsociable. While nurture certainly plays a big role in a feline’s personality and behavior, Friends unfortunately gives Sphynx cats something of a bad rap! Unlike in the TV show, this breed is actually very friendly and sociable. 

Sphynx cats will follow their owners to the most unlikely of places (including the bathroom) and love spending time around people. These affectionate felines will seek out physical contact and enjoy sleeping on or near their favorite humans. Another great purrsonality trait is that they get along well with other pets and children. This makes it easy to introduce a Sphynx to another cat or a new baby. 

They are also very curious animals that enjoy learning tricks. Something to keep in mind is that these fur friends can be a bit chattier than other breeds! Be prepared for your Sphynx to meow a lot, especially when they want attention.

Does a Sphynx need a lot of special care?

Do Sphynx cats need a lot of special care? Despite their lack of fur, Sphynx cats are a high-maintenance breed that require a fair amount of grooming. They are also high energy and very social, which means they don’t do well when left alone for long periods of time. Below are other major care factors to take into consideration before getting a Sphynx.

High energy

Sphynx cats have a fast metabolism; hence they burn calories quickly and are very high energy. You’ll need to feed your kitty a special diet rich in proteins and nutrients. These balanced meals will ensure that Mr Whiskers’ energy needs are met and that they maintain a healthy weight.

Because they are high energy, Sphynx felines also require a lot of stimulation. Make sure you schedule several play sessions with your cat throughout the day. If possible, provide access to a safe outdoor area where your Sphynx can explore and climb.

Potential allergies

Because of their lack of fur, the Sphynx is often labelled a hypoallergenic breed. However, even though they don’t have fur, these felines can still cause allergies. So, if you suffer from allergies or live with someone who does, keep this in mind before bringing a Sphynx into your life. 

Highly social

Sphynx cats are very social animals and require a lot of company to be happy. These kitties can become stressed and upset if they spend too much time alone. To keep your Sphynx happy and healthy, you’ll need to dedicate time to cuddling and interacting with them. If you tend to spend a lot of time outside the home, consider getting another fur friend to keep them company or hiring a cat sitter to provide extra care. A trustworthy sitter can pop in during the day to spend time with your Sphynx cat and make sure they get enough attention while you’re away. 

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Temperature sensitivity

It probably doesn’t come as a surprise to you to learn that Sphynx cats can be very sensitive to changes in temperature. But it’s not just cold weather that’s uncomfortable for these felines, they can struggle in hot environments too. If you get a Sphynx, you’ll need to be vigilant about adjusting their environment accordingly to prevent your cat from freezing or overheating.

Frequent grooming

Many people assume that, because they don’t have fur, Sphynx cats don’t require any grooming. But their lack of fur means that these felines tend to build up a lot more oil on their skin. And while it’s rarely necessary to bathe most cats, a Sphynx will need the occasional bath to keep their skin grease-free, and to remove any build-up of dirt or grime. Bathe Mr Whiskers once a week with warm water and hypoallergenic shampoo. Always dry your Sphynx off quickly afterwards to prevent their skin from getting chapped. And don’t bathe your fur(less) friend too often! This can dry out their skin and leave them sensitive to acne.

Sphynx cats are also prone to ear infections, so be diligent about cleaning your kitty’s ears. And pay special attention to your Sphynx’s paws too. Not only should you periodically clip your feline’s claws, but you should clean between their toes once or twice a week to prevent infections and accumulation of grime. 

Should I get a Sphynx cat?

Only you can decide if this breed is the right one for your personality and lifestyle. As you’ve seen above, they are a high-maintenance breed that require a fair amount of commitment from their owners. If you’re not sure you can provide the care and attention a Sphynx needs, then you should reconsider getting one. 

Bringing a new kitty into your life is not a decision to be taken lightly. It’s important to read up on different cat breeds and types so you can make an informed decision. And if possible, always consider adopting before buying. There are many kitties in shelters waiting for a good home and adopting one can be a very fulfilling experience too!