Sphynx Cats Information

The Sphynx is a rare and unusual cat breed. It has an unusual "hairless" look and has been described as feeling like a warm suede-covered hot-water bottle. The Sphynx cat does require special care; their loving personality, affection and inquisitive nature makes up for the extra time and attention.

  1. History

    • According to the Cat Fancier's Association (CFA), the Sphynx cat was first discovered in Toronto, Canada, in 1966 when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten. It was considered to be a natural gene mutation. For the purpose of creating a large gene pool of genetically sound cats, the Sphynx has been bred to cats with hair and again back to hairless cats for more than 30 years. In 2002 the CFA accepted the breed for competition in the Championship Class.

    Appearance and Color

    • Although they are referred to as "hairless," they do have a chamois-like peach fuzz on their bodies. The hair that is most noticeable will be on their nose, tail and toes. Due to the limited hair, their ears look quite large and their tail looks like a rat's tail. Their skin is wrinkled in a wide variety of colors and patterns. The color is seen in the skin's pigment and the few hairs they have.

    Personality

    • The Sphynx cat likes to be the center of attention and loves to be handled and cuddled. People who have allergies to cat dander find that owning a Sphynx cat is more tolerable. These cats are intelligent, very active, playful, sweet-tempered and do well in homes with children, dogs and other cats.

    Care

    • Sphynx cats do require special care. A weekly bath is recommended because of the oil buildup on their skin. Their hair follicles produce oil, the same as cats with hair, but with no hair to help absorb the oil, their skin becomes greasy. Their eyes and ears should also have a weekly cleaning to remove possible eye discharge and earwax. Sphynx cats are sensitive to the cold and sun; outdoor exposure should be limited. Their bodies are always working to keep warm and they have a higher metabolism than other cats, therefore, they require more food at mealtimes.

    Breed Standards

    • The American Cat Fanciers' Association standards allow for the male Sphynx to be 25 percent larger than the female. They should have a medium-head size, chin should be firm, ears should be large and rounded, cheekbones prominent and an eye color of green or hazel is acceptable. Their body should be firm and muscular with a broad chest and rounded abdomen. The legs should be proportionate to their body with the hind legs slightly longer than the front. The pads on their feet should be thicker than other breeds. The Sphynx cat should have very few whiskers and eyelashes and the skin should be wrinkled. The standard weight for a female is 5 to 8 pounds and a male can weigh up to 10 pounds.