Sphynx
Also known as: Canadian Hairless
Without a doubt the first thing you notice about the Sphynx is what it lacks — fur. But this wrinkled, warm-to-the-touch cat more than makes up for it with an enormous personality. Sphynx cats are the extroverts of the cat world — attention-seeking, acrobatic and deeply affectionate.
About
Without a doubt the first thing you notice about the Sphynx is what it lacks — fur. But this wrinkled, warm-to-the-touch cat more than makes up for it with an enormous personality. Sphynx cats are the extroverts of the cat world — attention-seeking, acrobatic and deeply affectionate.
History
The modern Sphynx breed originated with a hairless kitten named Prune born in Toronto, Canada in 1966, the result of a natural mutation. Prune was bred back to his mother and the hairless trait was established. The breed was later developed using hairless cats from Minnesota and Devon Rex crosses.
Care & Health
HCM is a major concern — annual cardiac screening is recommended. Despite lacking a fur coat, Sphynx are not hypoallergenic (the allergen is a protein in saliva, not fur). They require weekly bathing to remove oil build-up and are sensitive to cold — provide warm bedding and limit outdoor time in cool weather.
Quick Facts
- Origin
- Canada
- Life Span
- 8–14 years
- Size
- medium
- Hair Shed
- little
- Grooming
- Weekly bath
- Good with Kids
- high
- Feeding Cost
- $15–$20 p/w
- Colours
- Any colour — the colour and pattern shows directly on the skin.
Health Considerations
Grooming
No brushing but needs weekly bathing to remove skin oils. Ear cleaning is essential.
Related Resources
Similar Breeds
Devon Rex
The Devon Rex is a pixie-like cat with huge ears, wavy fur and enormous personality. Often called the "poodle cat" for their curly coats, Devon Rex are supremely people-oriented — they will follow their owners everywhere and insist on being involved in everything. They are warm-bodied, sociable and utterly entertaining.
Cornish Rex
The Cornish Rex is an acrobatic, playful cat with a distinctive wavy coat and large, bat-like ears. Their curly coat is incredibly soft to touch — like crushed velvet. They are known for their "dog-like" personality, often playing fetch and learning to walk on a leash. Cornish Rex are warm-bodied cats that love to snuggle.