Sphynx Cat 101: Their Story & All You Need to Know

Remember the cat Rachel got for herself in the famous TV show FRIENDS? “It’s a show-quality Sphynx cat”, she said. The Sphynx cat is best known for their hairless coat. They have serious expressions on their face but don’t get fooled by that - these cats are very loving and crave human attention! Known for cute acrobatic activities, the Sphynx is sure to steal your heart in a minute! They don’t take themselves too seriously. Not everyone thinks that the Sphynx has endearing looks due to their hairless coat. Did you know that they vary in the degree of hairlessness? While some tend to have just a ‘peach fuzz’ all over their body, others have a fine fuzz only over the extremities. With a head in the shape of a ‘wedge’ and large eyes, the Sphynx sure is a rather extraordinary breed.  

The Story 

The original identifier for the Sphynx was the ‘Canadian hairless’ cat breed. These cats got their initial start in Canada in the year 1966 when in a litter of domestic short haired kittens, a hairless kitten was born. This happened due to naturally occurring genetic mutation. This was not the first cat that was born hairless, there had been a few kittens prior to this incident. But the Sphynx that we know and see today was a result of selective breeding between these hairless cats and normal coated cats. The offspring that was produced out of this breeding was then bred with other hairless cats. This process helped in widening the gene pool which helped in producing a genetically hardy cat breed. Some people find the Sphynx very endearing whereas some people find their looks to be off putting. Apart from the fact that these cats do not shed owing to their hairless coat, the Sphynx makes for a friendly house pet.  

What’s a Sphynx Breed Like? 

Temperament 

Think energetic and think Sphynx cat. They have lots of acrobatic moves which make them look cuter than they are. Sometimes, the Sphynx will show off their acrobatic moves to get attention. Do not fall for the serious expression that they hold on to their face - in fact, they have a pleasant sense of humor. The Sphynx is a friendly and loyal cat breed that loves to follow their pawrents around the house. They express their love for their favorite meowman and enjoy their company as well. Sometimes, to get noticed, they may even try to involve themselves in what you are doing. They do not miss any opportunity to come and sit on their parents’ lap. It is something that the Sphynx breed thoroughly enjoys. Curious and intelligent by nature, the Sphynx likes to observe all that happens around them and may even make them a handful for you as they are not dull. These are ideal indoor cats and get along well with both children and other pets. 

Features 

Recognized as a Canadian breed, the Sphynx loves attention and may want to be involved in your activities around the house. They are people-oriented cats which makes them great pets. However, they should not be left alone for longer periods of time. The Sphynx is known to be very talkative and loves to express themselves through their loud purring. If you ignore them or do not give them attention, they may get involved in destructive behaviors around the house. Since they are hairless, the Sphynx can feel cold during winter, therefore you must make sure that they are properly covered in the cold season. Owing to their friendly nature, these cats make wonderful house pets for households that have children or other pets as well.  

With an extrovert personality, you will find your Sphynx lounging on top of the laptop or TV and greet everyone who comes home. 

Colours 

Brown, silver, white, gold, red, cream, brown, cameo 

Their Grooming Needs 

The sparse fur and skin on the Sphynx do not require regular bathing. You can get them used to sponging since kittenhood. Make sure that you clean their ears to prevent ear infections.  

Overall Health 

One of the major problems that come with the Sphynx is that they are prone to obesity. And obesity is the source of many other health troubles in this breed. It is the cause of diabetes, arthritis, and many other illnesses. Make sure that you watch the amount of food you give your Sphynx and do not let them indulge in overeating. The Sphynx is also prone to dental troubles as is other animals. Thus, it is crucial that you brush their teeth regularly and maintain oral hygiene. They tend to get bacterial infections such as panleukopenia and rabies. Make sure that you get their ‘core’ vaccinations done on time. 

When To Visit the Vet?  

Seeing your cat exhibit any abnormal symptoms could be due to an underlying health condition. Therefore, regular vet checkups are recommended. Keep their vaccinations up to date. Upon reaching senior age, you will need to take your Sphynx Cat to the vet every six months to get them checked for eye problems or even heart trouble or any other age-related problem. 

Also Read: Siamese Cat 101: Their Story & All You Need to Know?