Popularly known for their hairless appearance, the Sphynx cat differs from other feline breeds in both its look and personality. While adopting a Sphynx may sound like an easy decision due to their friendly, affectionate, and curious demeanors, this breed does come with a unique set of care necessities and health concerns that potential owners may not initially understand. Keep reading below to learn the history, temperament, appearance, coat care, health concerns, and other interesting facts about the unique Sphynx.
Sphynx History
Contrary to public assumptions, the royal Sphynx breed did not originate in ancient Egypt. In fact, the Sphynx breed began in Toronto, Canada in 1966 when a hairless kitten, named Prune, was born to a domestic shorthair cat. As this breeder was working to establish the breed, two more naturally hairless cats were discovered in Minnesota in 1971. Together, these three cats became the foundation of the Sphynx breed that we know today. While for a bit some Sphynx cats were a cross-breed between the Devon Rex, American Shorthair, and Domestic Shorthair breeds, now all Sphynx cats are required to breed exclusively with their own breed to be considered purebred.
Temperament
If well-socialized as a kitten, Sphynx cats are generally loving, energetic, and goofy cats that are perfect for a family household. This breed is known to have outgoing and sociable personalities so expect them to act up in slightly mischievous ways to gain your attention. If the people in your household are commonly away for long hours during the day, consider getting a fellow Sphynx cat so that they have each other’s company. While commonly intelligent, it’s important to engage your Sphynx with regular play, high-up cat trees, and challenging feline toys. Finally, due to their lack of fur, Sphynx cats will often crawl underneath blankets to keep warm, so make sure to provide them with plenty of cozy spots around the home!
Appearance & Coat Care
Being a medium-sized cat that usually weighs between 6-to-12 pounds, the Sphynx tends to be an athletic, sturdy, and muscular breed. While they may appear fully hairless, Sphynx cats actually have a very short layer of fur along theirwhole body which gives them a texture similar to peach fuzz. Their body is covered in loose wrinkly skin that often creates an oil buildup that owners need to regularly clean. Despite having minimal fur, the Sphynx is a high-maintenance breed that requires a lot of grooming.
Health Concerns
The Sphynx breed is known for their large ferocious appetites and, if left unchecked, will quickly eat themselves to the point of obesity. While the Sphynx is overall known to be a healthy breed, they also can suffer from heart disease usually brought on by obesity. Because of this, it’s vital to regulate your Sphynx’s food intake and make sure they’re only eating on a twice-per-day schedule.
Sphynx Facts
- Sphynx cats were named after the famous statue in Egypt.
- Their regular normal body temperature runs 4-degrees warmer than normal cats.
- Steven Tyler, Lady Gaga, and Demi Lovato are all celebrities who love Sphynx cats.
- The Journal of Veterinary Behavior voted the Sphynx as the most affectionate cat breed.
- Dr. Evil’s cat, Mr. Bigglesworth from the Austin Power series, is a Sphynx cat.
Dietary Requirements of Sphynx Cats
The Sphynx breed loves to eat and, if left to their own devices, may consume to the point of obesity. To manage your furless friend’s food intake, measure their food and feed your Sphynx twice a day. For an optimum diet, be sure to sprinkle a scoop of Dr. Bill’s Feline Ultimate Fitness & Health on their food every day. Feline Fitness & Health is a delicious, concentrated nutritional powder, scientifically formulated to provide a balanced blend of 50-nutrients that support optimum fitness and health in growing, physically mature, and senior cats. Designed to promote a strong, lean body, a healthy immune system, a balanced digestive tract, flexible joints, plus healthy eye, heart and brain function. Feline Fitness & Health is safe for growing and adult Sphynx cats of all ages.
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