About Sphynx Cats
The word Sphynx conjures up images of the Great Stone monuments in Egypt and mythical creatures from Greek mythology. The Sphynx cat isn’t quite that mythical, but it is just as memorable. A member of the hairless cat family, Sphynx are distinctive for many reasons. Their hairless appearance, incredibly High activity level and energetic personality all contribute to a cat that, while more difficult to take care of, will instantly become a loved member of any family willing to devote the time and energy to raising them.
The Sphynx originated from Canada, when a family realized their pet domestic shorthair cat had a hairless kitten. Hairlessness is due to a naturally occurring genetic mutation.
Obviously the first thing that comes to mind about Sphynx cats is their hairless nature. While they can be completely bald, they more often have very fine short hair that is almost invisible.
There are 5 different Sphynx coat types! This hair contributes to a cat that feels almost like a large Peach. Soft to the touch, Sphynx cats still enjoy being petted and curling up on your lap.
They also have large, pointed ears that come to hard points on either side. They are also a medium sized cat that commonly weighs about 7-11 lbs.
The Sphynx is also a very muscular cat, so it can jump and run with the best of them.
Since the Sphynx is a hairless version of the average housecat, it comes in all colors and patterns.
Sphynx Temperament
A Sphynx cat’s personality stands out just as much as its appearance. They are loving and friendly, but as opposed to cats that spend time lounging around, the sphynx will constantly be performing for you and your guests. Whether jumping from cupboards, perching on shoulders, or running from wall to wall, sphynx cats are bundles of energy. They also enjoy cuddling on laps and giving affection to their owners.
This breed was voted “Most Affectionate” by TICA. They don’t enjoy being alone, so they will follow you from room to room and hang out with you wherever you may be! I have often gone to my closet to get something and later heard a meow coming from inside the closet. One ran in and I didn’t even know it! Another thing to know about the Sphynx cat is their talkative nature. They will vocalize their feelings a lot more than other cats. Whether it is a happy purr or an annoyed chirp, they will let you know what it wants and how it feels.
Although you don’t have normal hair care with Sphynx cats, they still have a fair number of needs and specific care that needs to be accounted for.
Without their hair, they don’t have any natural protection from the sun and from the cold weather. There are concerns you need to have that you don’t have with most other cats.
Sphynx cats also need to be bathed more regularly than other cats. Their skin has a propensity to get oily. Weekly baths are recommended to avoid this oily skin.
Fortunately, they are better with bathing, unlike most other cats, and will cooperate with you more often than not. Especially when done frequently & starting while they are young.
While they take more time and involvement than some other cat breeds, the Sphynx will be a great choice for any dedicated cat owner. Any energy put into the relationship from your end will undoubtedly be matched by the Sphynx.
The Sphynx is no more likely to develop HCM than any other purebred or mixed breed cat. Since scientist don’t know why any cat can develop HCM at any time in their life (same for humans), all we can do is look for genetic markers known in some breeds that are likely to be prone to HCM.
Adult breeding cats that have tested negative for HCM does not guarantee that their kittens will not develop HCM at some point later in life. It just means that a breeder is not knowingly breeding a cat with genetics that are prone for HCM.
