Sphynx
Overview
You may think that you've wandered into an alien world when you meet a Sphynx cat, but we assure you, they are definitely from this world! Sometimes nicknamed the "goblin cat," Sphynx kitties came to be when a Siamese breeder in Toronto, Canada, noticed that a few of her kittens were born hairless and even without whiskers! From that day on, a lot of careful breeding went into refining the Sphynx! Named after the mythological creature with a lion's body and a human head, Sphynx cats are unmistakable. Their iconic wrinkled skin is often not completely hairless; typically, they have a soft layer of fuzz on their long muscular bodies. Because Sphynx cats do not have a regular absorbent coat, oil is more likely to pool on their skin, meaning that the Sphynx cat can be more prone to developing skin infections. Unlike your typical feline friend, they will need a weekly bath to keep them happy and healthy. To compensate for the lack of hair, Sphynx cats tend to burn much hotter and have a faster metabolism, so make sure they always have access to fresh food and water at all hours of the day.
Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for
Skin Infections:
Sphynx cats are prone to skin problems, including the development of rashes and fungal infections due to their lack of hair.
Recommendations for Skin Infections in :
Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for
Gastrointestinal issues:
Sphynx cats often have sensitive tummies and need access to fresh food at all times (to compensate for their lack of hair, they have faster metabolisms) so sometimes they can have issues with digestion, absorption, or bowel health.
Recommendations for Gastrointestinal issues in :
Common Health Conditions & Recommendations for
Respiratory Issues:
Sphynx cats may be prone to asthma and other respiratory issues. Spotting the signs early and getting the right treatment goes a long way in helping your Sphynx kitty breathe a little easier.
Recommendations for Respiratory Issues in :
Personality
Being the only cat breed from Canada, Sphynx cats may not be for everyone, but those that love them, are obsessed! From their long-batlike ears, rat-like tail, prominent cheekbones, wrinkled skin, and long toes, Sphynx kitties prove that bald is beautiful! They are very cuddly and fun-loving, so make sure to have lots of fun toys and perches to keep your Sphynx happy. These unusual kitties can get sunburnt, so they should avoid spending too much time in the sun and do their best as indoor-only pets. Despite popular belief, the Sphynx cat is not hypoallergenic. They do produce less dander than some kitties though, so they would be a good choice for someone who wants a low-dander housepet. Often described as doglike in their personality, a Sphynx may be the pet for you if you want a cuddly lap cat who feels like suede and looks like an adorable mini goblin.