Sphynx Cat (Hairless) Breed: Info, Pictures, Care, Traits & Facts

Breed Overview

We are used to seeing cats with long or short coats or cats with curly hair, but a Sphynx has an alien-looking appearance that seems unnatural. Although most of our domestic cats today have a thick coat, hairless cats aren’t as unnatural as you’d think. The Sphynx is a product of a natural mutation. The first known hairless cats appeared over 100 years ago, but the one we know today started to develop around the 1970s by crossing hairless cats with Rex cats.

Sphynx cats have a suede-like coat as opposed to fur. It keeps him warm and soft to the touch but not warm enough to live comfortably in colder climates. Even though they look a little different, you’ll be getting even more character than you could imagine. This breed is smart, curious, and funny. They love to clown around when awake and curl up under a blanket with you at night. They are well-suited for nearly any home but are a benefit to those who love cats but are allergic to the dander.

Sphynx/Hairless Cat Kittens

Sphynx/Hairless Cat Characteristics

The greatest benefit to having a Sphynx cat as a pet is their level of sociability. These cats are one of the few who get along well with strangers, cats, dogs, and children. There have been instances where the cats will bat at a child who doesn’t know how to handle them, but that is avoidable when you teach young children how to be gentle and careful when around pet cats.

Sphynx cats are intelligent breeds, and it won’t be challenging to train them and show them the house rules. They have a moderate level of energy, and a short play session every day is usually enough to get out their pent-up energy. They are prone to a few health issues but are generally healthy and will spend a long and healthy life by your side.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Sphynx/Hairless Cat

1. Sphynx cats originated in Canada.

You wouldn’t think that a hairless cat comes from a northern country since they aren’t equipped with a warm coat. Modern-day Sphynx cats came to our world when an Ontario cat gave birth to one hairless kitten because of a genetic mutation. In the 1970s, two separate sets of hairless cats were born to Toronto and Minnesota natives. It took various breeding efforts to turn them into the breed we love today. However, the Sphynx is not the only hairless cat in the world. The Donskoy cat is another hairless breed from Russia that looks nearly identical to the ones in America.

2. They do have hair.

Even though it doesn’t look like it, these felines are not actually hairless. These cats have a fine layer of downy, fuzzy hair that covers their skin. They are not plush when you touch them, but their coat does feel like suede. Even though the hair doesn’t have much distinct color, there are different skin pigments and patterns.

3. They require weekly baths.

You would assume that a Sphynx is a clean cat because they don’t have all that hair to take care of. Unfortunately, their unique coat is a magnet for dust, pollen, and other particles. The oil from their skin forms a greasy film on their bodies and stops their dead skin shells from shedding. To get rid of the dirt, owners have to wipe them down with a wet washcloth or cotton balls to keep them clean.

Temperament & Intelligence of the Sphynx/Hairless Cat

Sphynx cats are outgoing and mischievous, but they love being around people. You might notice that they spend much time talking to you or purring when lying next to you. They spend most of their days sleeping, basking in the sun, or playing with toys or other pets in the house.

Are These Cats Good for Families?

The Sphynx breed is very intelligent and has everything a first-time cat owner is looking for in a pet. They quickly catch on to the rules of the house and get along with almost all people and animals. They do fairly well with small children and are unique pets that everyone in the family will love.

Does This Cat Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

The Sphynx is the cat for you if you already have other pets in the home. Cats are known for being apprehensive of each other and other pets. However, the Sphynx does well with a proper introduction, and it doesn’t take them long to warm up to the other members of the house. It isn’t common to have issues between a Sphynx cat and other breeds.

Things to Know When Owning a Sphynx/Hairless Cat:

There are a few demands that these cats have that help them stay clean, fit, and healthy. Ensure you can provide these cats a good life before bringing them home. For example, they won’t do well as outdoor cats in cold regions since they lack a protective fur coat to create a barrier between the sun, rain, or snow.

Food & Diet Requirements

An ideal diet for a Sphynx cat is composed of mostly raw foods, whether it be from meat, kibble, or fish. These cats do tend to have a big appetite and big bellies. You have to do your best to keep them from becoming obese. This is avoidable with exercise, feeding them only the recommended amount listed on their food packaging, and feeding them only at certain times of the day.

Exercise

Even though they do require exercise, these cats are mostly happy to be active on their own. They do benefit from a couple of short play sessions throughout the day, but most do an okay job at keeping fit on their own. Give them about 30 minutes of exercise per day if possible.

Training

Training is an important step when raising any new pet. Thankfully, Sphynx cats are smart enough to pick up on things fairly quickly. The most training that goes into taking care of cats is litter box training. However, most cats do well with this regardless of the quality of training.

Grooming ✂️

We’ve talked a little bit about the oily film that builds up on hairless cats, but there is more you need to know. Wash your Sphynx once per week, but keep in mind that they have very sensitive skin. Only use gentle soaps recommended by your vet. If they are going outside, slather sunscreen on them to keep them from being sunburned. Leaving them outside could also make them overheat or get too cold, so don’t keep them out for too long. Aside from their bathing, make sure you dedicate time once every two weeks to trim their nails and clean their ears with cotton balls.

Related Read: Are Sphynx Cats Hypoallergenic?

Health and Conditions

The Sphynx doesn’t have a huge list of disease predispositions, but they are known to develop some issues that other breeds don’t. Keep on top of your annual vet appointments and take them in whenever you notice unusual changes in their behavior.

Final Thoughts

The Sphynx has become a breed that people either love or hate. Some people are turned off by their uncommon looks, while others embrace their irreplaceable appearance. Don’t write these cats off just because they are a little different on the outside. These cats will charm you with their fun personalities, hours of snuggles, and friendliness towards every person or animal who comes into your house. The Sphynx cat is one that we have a deep appreciation for and can’t imagine a world without.

Related Reads:

• How Long Do Sphynx Cats Live?

• Blue Sphynx Cat: Facts, Origin & History

Featured Image Credit: Lightspruch, Shutterstock