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Sphynx
Origin
Canada
Height
8"-10"
Adult Weight
8-16 pounds
Life Span
13-14 years
TEMPERAMENT
Loving, sociable, intelligent, loyal
OTHER NAMES
Canadian Sphynx, Canadian Hairless Cat, Moon Cat
Group
Medium-sized hairless
Price
$1800-$3000
Personality and Temperament
If you’re looking for a friendly cat with a big personality, the Sphynx might be ideal. Bonus points if you’re hoping for a pet that doesn’t shed, as these hairless cats are either completely free of hair or are covered in the barest layer of fine, velvety down.
With bold features and an intense gaze, the Sphynx might not appear to be the friendliest cat on the planet, but don’t let this cat’s stern espression deceive you! The Sphynx is a gregarious, personable cat with lots of love to share with everyone, including strangers and other pets. Quick to greet their family members at the door and just as fast to cuddle under the covers when bedtime arrives, Sphynx cats take every possible opportunity to socialize.
Without adequate companionship, the Sphynx quickly becomes despondent, bored, and destructive. These cats absolutely hate to be left alone, and while they’re spending time with you, they have a tendency to offer unsolicited help and advice. Loud meows can give way to unrelenting wails if you try to confine a Sphynx to its own space, making these cats unsuitable for families that don’t want a high level of involvement from their pet.
Last but not least, Sphynx cats need to be kept warm and protected from the elements. These cats can’t live outdoors where they’ll suffer from sunburn, windburn, cold, and injuries to their delicate skin.Even inside, Sphynx look for the warmest possible place to rest. Offer a heated cat bed, and you’ll know exactly where to find your Sphynx when it’s time to play. If your Sphynx wants to sunbathe near a window or door, use a pet sunscreen to protect their exposed skin.
Care
High-quality food is essential for Sphynx cats, as lower-quality cat food can lead to skin problems and cause excess oil production. Look for a brand that’s high in protein and low in carbohydrates, and that incorporates real meat or fish as the primary ingredient.
You might think that the Sphynx cat requires very little in terms of grooming. It’s true that these cats don’t need brushing, but they do require fairly frequent bathing to remove excess oil that can lead to greasy buildup and skin irritation. Frequency varies depending on the individual cat, but most Sphynx need a bath every one to four weeks. Use a gentle cat shampoo and warm water that feels comfortable on your own skin.
Check your Sphynx cat’s ears frequently, as well. If you notice debris deep inside the ear, have your vet or a professional groomer provide a cleaning. Between deep cleanings, wipe away greasy residue with a cotton ball that has been moistened with a pet ear cleanser.
At-home dental care can help keep your Sphynx healthier for a lifetime, so consider brushing their teeth daily. Feline toothpaste comes in flavors cats enjoy, making this task a bit easier once they know what to expect.
Sphynx cats are prone to buildup between their toes, so wash their paws a few times per week prevent skin infections. It’s a good idea to clip your cat’s toenails regularly, too. This routine is simplest when you start from a young age. With time, your cat will accept it without making too much of a fuss.
Sphynx cats are capable athletes with strong, sinewy muscles. These cats get lots of exercise following their people around and playing with other pets, but provide opportunities to jump and climb via cat condos or cat trees, and one or more scratching posts. Offer plenty of toys to engage your Sphynx and keep them in great shape.
Unfortunately, Sphynx cats do have some known health issues, including an increased incidence of a type of heart disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). In addition, some Sphynx are prone to an inherited neuromuscular disorder called congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS).
Characteristics
Affection Level
100%
Activity Level
80%
Pet-Friendly
80%
Kid-Friendly
80%
Sociability
100%
Intelligence
100%
Playfulness
100%
Independence
20%
Vocality
80%
Grooming
50%
History
The Breed Standard
Body
The body is of medium length, with ample musculature, a rounded abdomen, a round chest, and a rounded rump.
Head
A Sphynx cat’s head forms a modified wedge that is slightly longer than it is wide. The cheekbones are prominent, and the whisker break and whisker pads give the muzzle a square profile. The nose is straight and the chin is strong.
Eyes
A Sphynx cat’s eyes are large and lemon-shaped, with wide centers and well-defined points on either side. The outer edges of the eyes are tilted slightly upward, aligning with the outer base of the ear. All eye colors are accepted.
Ears
The ears are large to very large in size, with broad bases and upright carriage. The outer base of the ear is set at the same level as the eye.
Legs & Paws
The legs are sturdy and well-muscled, and are proportionate to the body. The hind legs are slightly longer than the forelegs. The paws are oval-shaped, with prominent, well-knuckled toes and thick pads.
Tail
The Sphynx cat’s tail is long and slender, but proportionate to the body’s length. It has a fine taper with a pointed end.
Coat
Sphynx cats may be completely hairless, or they may have very short, fine, peach fuzz that does not interfere with the cats’ hairless appearance. Whiskers, when present, are short and sparse. The bridge of the nose has a normal coating, and fine hair might be present on the feet, the tail, the scrotum, and the outer edges of the ears. Wrinkled skin is the norm, and is desirable, particularly between the ears, around the shoulders, and in the muzzle area.
Color
All Sphynx cat colors and patterns are acceptable, with the exception of white lockets, belly spots, and buttons on show cats. Nose leather and paw pad color complement skin color.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Sphynx cat cost?
A pet-quality Sphynx kitten usually costs anywhere from $1,800 to $3,000.
Is a Sphynx cat a good pet?
Sphynx are extremely people-oriented and affectionate companions. They want nothing more than to be with their favorite people, preferably snuggled up in your lap or under the covers. They get along great with people or all ages, as well as other cats and gentle dogs. Because Sphynx thrive on human attention, they are not a great choice for people who are away from the home for many hours a day.
Do Sphynx cats have a lot of health problems?
Sphynx cats are generally healthy, although like all pedigreed cats, certain genetic disorders can affect some individuals. Two known genetic diseases found in the Sphynx breed are a type of heart disease known as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and an inherited neuromuscular disorder called congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS). Sphynx cats also need special skin care, including regular bathing, and protection from the sun and cold weather.
Do Sphynx cats shed a lot?
Sphynx cats are hairless or nearly hairless, so they don’t shed. However, the lack of fur causes oils on the skin to build up, so Sphynx need regular baths to keep their skin clean and free from irritation.