Energy & Playfulness | |
Affection & Handling | |
Likes To Be Alone | |
Vocal | |
Intelligence | |
Health | |
Grooming & Shedding | |
Kid Friendly | |
Other Pets |
Size | Eye Color | Fur |
|---|---|---|
Male: 8-12lbs Female: 8-10lbs | Multiple Colors | Bald Nearly Hairless |
Colors | Patttern | Longevity |
|---|---|---|
White, black, blue, red, cream, silver, golden, cameo, tortoiseshell, blue-cream, brown | Solid color, tortoiseshell, bicolor, tricolor/calico, tabby, ticking, smoke, shaded | 9-13 Years |
Overview
You may know him as Mr. Bigglesworth from Austin Powers, but wherever you have seen a Sphynx, there is no doubt that you will remember the only hairless breed of domestic cat. It’s believed that this cat was originally born in the 70’s and they were all the craze. The hairless gene is recessive and many of them, which are bred to the Devon Rex, come out with hair which makes the Sphynx a rare breed.
They were originally referred to as the Canadian Hairless Cat, but let’s be glad that they received a cooler and much more fitting name like Sphynx. The ICA is thanks to this due to their reference of the smooth limestone sculpture in Egypt. The Sphynx is recognized by the ACFA n the CFA and the ICA and many other cat registries around the world.
Personality
It’s fitting that the Sphynx adores the attention because this is a cat that gets a lot of attention. While he may not notice that he’s unique and thinks nothing of his lack of fur, anyone that knows you have this breed will always want to touch and pet him. Contrary to how he may look, the Sphynx would love nothing more than to have you hold him and pick him up.
His lack of fur doesn’t prevent him from having a normal and curious behavior. Sphynx are completely capable of doing everything that normal cats do such as climbing trees and chasing toys. They are intelligent and love toys that challenge their minds.
It’s important to remember that if you are going to be gone most of the day, you should consider getting your Sphynx a friend to talk to. They are incredibly social cats and will welcome the company of other cats and even other dogs & animals if they respect each other. The Sphynx likes to snuggle because he can get cold. This is an animal that should definitely have a wardrobe that rivals yours in the sweater department.
Health
Any cat can have ailments that are related to any cat regardless of breed. It's important to always consult with your breeder about genetic concerns. The Sphynx is a generally healthy cat, but here are some health concerns that have been noted in this breed:
Care
Despite his bald body, a Sphynx requires at least as much grooming as cats with fur and maybe even more. Their skin must be kept moisturized with a gentle, scent-free lotion or oil, and they need weekly baths so as not to leave greasy spots on your furniture and clothing. Use a gentle baby shampoo or moisturizing shampoo and rinse thoroughly, especially between the folds of the wrinkles. If you begin bathing your Sphynx kitten while he is young, he will learn to accept and sometimes even enjoy baths. Baby wipes will help to keep him clean between baths.
The ears are another place where dirt can build up. Make sure to use cotton balls with warm water and gently scrub the interior of theirs ears.
Children And Other Pets
The active and social Sphynx is a perfect choice for families with children and cat-friendly dogs. He learns tricks easily and loves the attention he receives from children who treat him politely and with respect. He lives peacefully with dogs and other cats. Always introduce pets slowly and in controlled circumstances to ensure that they learn to get along together.
