Sphynx cat, a most famous hairless feline

The Sphynx cat is a cat that does not go unnoticed, maybe you don't know their name or history, but we are sure you have seen one of them and never forgot their appearance.

They are characterized by their slim and slender appearance and their almost non-existent fur does not go unnoticed by anyone.

In this post, we bring you a lot of information for you to get to know these cats better.

Origin of the Sphynx cat

The Sphynx cat was born in Canada in 1966 when from a litter of domestic hairless kittens a hairless kitten was born as a result of a genetic mutation that occurred naturally.

This feline is the result of a natural mutation produced as a result of a recessive gene called Hr or Hereditary Alopecia (Hypotrichosis Congenital) of the devon rex cat.

Their name is due to their resemblance to the felines that were worshiped by the Egyptians in ancient times.

A lady had this particular kitten named Prune and crossed him a year later with his mother named Elizabeth to obtain more kittens, from which 7 kittens were born, of which 2 males and 2 females were hairless.

But due to inbreeding, these kittens could not develop properly, which led to the end of the breeding of these cats.

A projection of the Sphynx cat rebounded around the year 2000 when several international associations admitted them as a breed. This was the first "hairless" feline breed to be recognized by cat associations.

The Sphynx cat together with the Peterbald and the Don Sphynx are the three hairless breeds.

Although at present the fourth breed of hairless cats has appeared, known as Kohana or Hawaiian bald cat, waxy and absolutely bald.

However, the hairless breeds were already known in the Aztec world, who would have had hairless cats many centuries ago and were revered.

Physical characteristics of the Sphynx cat

Size: between 20 and 25 cm.

Weight: can weigh between 3.5 and 7 kg.

Eyes: lemon-shaped and slanted towards the outer edge of the ear, they are usually green or hazel.

Ears: Their ears are large, wide at the base, and open, and their tips are slightly rounded, totally devoid of hair inside.

Coat: Error 404 not found. These cats have no fur, which is their main characteristic. But here's a secret, they are not completely hairless, their body is covered with a thin layer, similar to suede, practically imperceptible to sight and touch.

Although they do not have whiskers either, it does not affect their abilities like any other feline.

Body: Their head is medium-sized, with a high muzzle, high forehead, and prominent cheekbones. Their body is medium, elongated, and smooth, with a muscular appearance and rounded abdomen.

Life Span: this breed has an average life span of 10 to 20 years.

The character of the Sphynx cat

Their physical structure makes them very active, playful, quite affectionate, very sociable and friendly animals. They are known to be one of the most affectionate felines with their faithful human owners.

They have a great sense of humor that contrasts with their serious face, and they are very intelligent, showing an ability and speed that impresses everyone when it comes to learning basic things.

They are very energetic, you will rarely see them lying on the couch, and they are likely to be on the move most of the day.

They love attention and pampering; in fact, they can't stand loneliness and will seek company whenever they need it.

If you were looking for a sociable and affectionate cat, you are without a doubt, in front of your ideal feline to live with.

Sphynx cat care

• Due to their lack of fur, they are sensitive to weather conditions. Their body compensates for the lack of hair with a body temperature up to 4 degrees higher than other cats.
• At home the temperature should not be too low, you can also offer your kitten a hammock for the radiator to prevent hypothermia.
• Do not expose your Sphynx cat to too much sunlight, as his lack of fur makes him sensitive to it.
• You can choose to protect him with sunscreen suitable for cats.
• You should clean your cat's teeth from the age of two to avoid periodontal diseases.
• It is necessary to clean their ears regularly.
• Since they do not have eyelashes or eyebrows, they tend to accumulate lint that should be cleaned regularly and with special products for them.
• To maintain proper hygiene of your pet, it is best to bathe him at least once a week.
• Take your Sphynx cat to the veterinarian regularly and keep all vaccinations up to date.

Feeding

Don't let their thin body deceive you, they usually eat a lot.  Due to their fast metabolism, they need large amounts of food and a more consistent diet than other breeds.

Even so, it is necessary to take care of their diet and manage their food rations well, to prevent them from suffering from obesity.

In order to maintain a higher body temperature, Sphynx cats need a diet that provides them with more calories.

It is recommended to combine wet food with semi-moist food that is rich in fats and proteins, about 5% more protein and about 5% more fat.

Sphynx cat health

Although you might think that their lack of hair is a problem, Sphynx cats are in good health.

However, like most cats, they can suffer from some diseases, mainly due to inbreeding, i.e. breeding between cats belonging to the same lineage. It is common for inexperienced breeders to decide to breed relatives among themselves.

These diseases or disorders can be fertility disorders and weakening of the immune system, which increases the probability of having allergies, bacterial infections, etc.

Also due to the weakening of the immune system may suffer from cancer at an early age, mental problems, and a decrease in body size.

Sphynx cats are a unique pet

Although they are not hypoallergenic, they are an excellent choice for people who suffer from allergies due to their lack of fur, they are affectionate, active, and very loyal. In addition, you will get all the attention with a Sphynx cat, something they love.

And with proper care, they can be by your side for many years.