General Description
The intriguing Sphynx cat never fails to draw a reaction from people - some people love the bald, wrinkled look, some are fascinated by the cat, while others are less than enthusiastic. But for those that take the time to get to know the cat, a great treat is in store. They have very soft skin that feels like the softest chamois leather and are so very warm to the touch that you just want to cuddle up with them-especially in cold weather. Their toes are like fingers and they use them that way as they investigate and play with everything that takes their curiosity. They wrinkled faces remind you of the wisdom we all gather with age while their big ears and lemon-shaped eyes give them a unique look. Their rounded Buddha-like bodies bring a smile to the face. The Sphynx is definitely an enigmatic breed for the connoisseur.
History
First attempts at breeding Sphynx began in 1966, when a black and white cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Ontario, Canada. The owner named the hairless kitten Prune, due to the wrinkled hairless skin. Prune was bred to other cats in an attempt to create more hairless kittens. Because hairlessness is a recessive gene, some of the kittens resulting from this union had hair, while others did not. These kittens were called Canadian Hairless Cats, which some people referred to as Sphynx cats, due to their physical similarities with an ancient Egyptian cat sculpture called the Sphinx. Between 1975 and 1978, several natural mutations of hairless kittens were found in Minnesota and Toronto. These kittens, named Epidermis, Punkie, and Paloma, were bred to Devon Rex, another breed with very little body hair. The Sphynx breed traces its history to the offspring of these unions. TICA has recognized this breed for over 20 years and there are now several thousand Sphynx registered in the world.
Personality
The Sphynx is an inquisitive, intelligent, and extremely friendly cat. Warm and soft to the touch, Sphynx frequently sleep with their owners under the covers. The term "Velcro lap cat" used to describe the desire of the Sphynx to be on you all the time, is very accurate. Sphynx love to greet every new person visiting the home, and most get along well with dogs and other pets. Because of their hairlessness, Sphynx have a tendency to get cold but they are intelligent enough to find a warm place- usually a computer monitor, a sunny window, a television, or under a blanket with their owners. Sphynx are highly active and will entertain themselves for hours and some Sphynx even fetch toys. Many Sphynx owners describe their cats as elf-like or childlike due to their inquisitive and intelligent nature. Sphynx are loyal and dedicated to their owners and make very affectionate companions for everyone.
Traits
The Sphynx is one of a few hairless breeds. Striking and distinctive in appearance, they do not lack hair entirely. Fine down covers the skin of most Sphynx, giving the skin a chamois or suede-like texture. Light hair is usually visible on the nose and backs of the ears. Sphynx come in a variety of colors, including solid, particolor, tabby, tortoiseshell, and are recognized in all four of TICA's categories: Traditional, Pointed, Mink, and Sepia. Their color is viewed on the pigment of the skin and on the few hairs (down) they have. Perhaps their second most distinguishable feature is their huge ears, frequently more than 2 or 3 inches in height. The Sphynx also has an open and sweet expression, greatly facilitated by the large lemon shaped eyes. This is a sturdy medium-boned, athletic and highly muscular cat. The belly of the Sphynx should give the appearance of having recently eaten a large meal. Because of their friendly nature, Sphynx often make excellent show cats as they are highly accepting of new people and easy to handle. Because of their lack of absorbent coat, Sphynx tend to get oily and need to be bathed often, but they are not hypo-allergenic. While some individuals with allergies find they are not allergic to Sphynx, others discover they are allergic but usually to a lesser extent. - TICA Website
The intriguing Sphynx cat never fails to draw a reaction from people - some people love the bald, wrinkled look, some are fascinated by the cat, while others are less than enthusiastic. But for those that take the time to get to know the cat, a great treat is in store. They have very soft skin that feels like the softest chamois leather and are so very warm to the touch that you just want to cuddle up with them-especially in cold weather. Their toes are like fingers and they use them that way as they investigate and play with everything that takes their curiosity. They wrinkled faces remind you of the wisdom we all gather with age while their big ears and lemon-shaped eyes give them a unique look. Their rounded Buddha-like bodies bring a smile to the face. The Sphynx is definitely an enigmatic breed for the connoisseur.
History
First attempts at breeding Sphynx began in 1966, when a black and white cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Ontario, Canada. The owner named the hairless kitten Prune, due to the wrinkled hairless skin. Prune was bred to other cats in an attempt to create more hairless kittens. Because hairlessness is a recessive gene, some of the kittens resulting from this union had hair, while others did not. These kittens were called Canadian Hairless Cats, which some people referred to as Sphynx cats, due to their physical similarities with an ancient Egyptian cat sculpture called the Sphinx. Between 1975 and 1978, several natural mutations of hairless kittens were found in Minnesota and Toronto. These kittens, named Epidermis, Punkie, and Paloma, were bred to Devon Rex, another breed with very little body hair. The Sphynx breed traces its history to the offspring of these unions. TICA has recognized this breed for over 20 years and there are now several thousand Sphynx registered in the world.
Personality
The Sphynx is an inquisitive, intelligent, and extremely friendly cat. Warm and soft to the touch, Sphynx frequently sleep with their owners under the covers. The term "Velcro lap cat" used to describe the desire of the Sphynx to be on you all the time, is very accurate. Sphynx love to greet every new person visiting the home, and most get along well with dogs and other pets. Because of their hairlessness, Sphynx have a tendency to get cold but they are intelligent enough to find a warm place- usually a computer monitor, a sunny window, a television, or under a blanket with their owners. Sphynx are highly active and will entertain themselves for hours and some Sphynx even fetch toys. Many Sphynx owners describe their cats as elf-like or childlike due to their inquisitive and intelligent nature. Sphynx are loyal and dedicated to their owners and make very affectionate companions for everyone.
Traits
The Sphynx is one of a few hairless breeds. Striking and distinctive in appearance, they do not lack hair entirely. Fine down covers the skin of most Sphynx, giving the skin a chamois or suede-like texture. Light hair is usually visible on the nose and backs of the ears. Sphynx come in a variety of colors, including solid, particolor, tabby, tortoiseshell, and are recognized in all four of TICA's categories: Traditional, Pointed, Mink, and Sepia. Their color is viewed on the pigment of the skin and on the few hairs (down) they have. Perhaps their second most distinguishable feature is their huge ears, frequently more than 2 or 3 inches in height. The Sphynx also has an open and sweet expression, greatly facilitated by the large lemon shaped eyes. This is a sturdy medium-boned, athletic and highly muscular cat. The belly of the Sphynx should give the appearance of having recently eaten a large meal. Because of their friendly nature, Sphynx often make excellent show cats as they are highly accepting of new people and easy to handle. Because of their lack of absorbent coat, Sphynx tend to get oily and need to be bathed often, but they are not hypo-allergenic. While some individuals with allergies find they are not allergic to Sphynx, others discover they are allergic but usually to a lesser extent. - TICA Website
Below we have a few links on breed information, and below that we also have general care and warnings :)
First CFA breed standard. It has everything you need to know it also has different coat color descriptions. Ever wonder exactly what color your cat is? This link will help! Second link is to TICA with breed information. History, personality, and traits.
First CFA breed standard. It has everything you need to know it also has different coat color descriptions. Ever wonder exactly what color your cat is? This link will help! Second link is to TICA with breed information. History, personality, and traits.
Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy also known as HCM is a disease that causes thickening of the heart muscle resulting in poor relaxing and filling ability. As the heart’s pumping chamber (ventricle) becomes progressively thicker, less blood can enter the chamber; thus, less blood is ejected out to the body. The University of Florida does heat screenings once a month. Hairless hearts is also a great informational site.
Sphynx are absolutely amazing cats! They so loving and hairless! ;) Now that you have made up your mind, and you are ready for your new hairless baby, We would to share how we feel is best care for your new baby!
Feeding !
I use Purina one sensitive systems cat food. It can be found at Petco, Petsmart, Walmart and Publix. However, you can use any cat food you want. Just make sure it is a name brand cat food and preferably high in protein. Sphynx cats have not so pleasant smelling... yeah, and higher protein foods help keep that "lovely" smell down. Please avoid generic and lower quality brands!! It is also better for your baby if you avoid wet (canned) food. The wet food sticks to their teeth and can cause decay and horrible breath. It is ok to give wet food as a treat (2-4 times a month) but we do not recommend it for everyday food!!! Your new baby also needs to have food available at all times. Sphynx cats have a high metabolism ans they need to eat a little at a time but a lot through out the day.
Keeping warm!
Sphynx cats have a hard time staying warm. Imagine if you were naked all the time! A general rule of thumb is, If your cold they are too! If your "ok" in a shirt and pants they are cold and should have some clothes on also. It is also a great idea to keep a polyester or plush blanket in their favorite spots as well as on the couch. A heating blanket is also a great way to keep your baby warm! Also to be clear! sphynx cats can and will get sunburns, just as bad as us! Sphynx cats are inside cats. You can take them outside but only for a bit WITH YOU and it is not recommended. Unless your cat is fully utd and its not an area with cats other than yours.
Bath time!
Please keep in mind that Sphynx need bath time once a week (at least twice a month), and it can be very stressful. Some will be absolutely fine with it they may even like it, while others will freak out. I suggest that if you get a young sphynx give them a bath once a week, and while you are in the shower put a towel on the toilet so he/she can get used the the sound and the fact you go in there. This will help as your sphynx gets older to make bath time not so difficult. If despite all your efforts its still difficult. Try bathing your baby in a baby bath tub and be sure to use sweet calm voices and give him/her treats. Also make sure to "frozen kitty'' Grabbing the back of the neck. This will help keep you from getting scratched and keep him/her from getting hurt also. Make sure you already have the baby bath water ready. (Do NOT run the water with your baby in the room. It will scare them) Fill the bath up as needed but make sure it is not too hot or too cold. (as if you are giving a baby a bath) .
Items needed!
Baby bath or filled bath tub
Wash Cloths
Animal Shampoo
Q-Tips
Ear Cleaning Solution (you can get it at vet or local pet store)
Nail Clipper (I use baby nail clippers)
A towel and blanket (for after he/shes dry)
Now that you have everything you need put your Sphynx in the water and get him/her wet all over. You can do this with the wash rag or a small cup. You may want to start with the face so you don't get soap in his/her eyes. Then continue to wash your baby till he/she is all clean. Once you’re all done making sure they are all clean rinse and wrap your baby in the towel. If your cat dosent mind you messing with their feet and ears you can go ahead and, when dry, you can bundle them up in their blanket. If they do not like ear and nail cleaning time keep them bundled up in the towel (its easier).
Nail Cleaning!
With your cat still wrapped up expose one paw at a time and carefully push the pad of your cat’s paw to expose his/her nails and with the baby wash cloth wipe off every nail till it is clean, and once that foot is clean go back through and trim the nails. You have to be very careful with this part! (make sure to do this in a well lit room) Push their pads as you did before and clip the nail almost to the pink part, but make sure to not get to close if cut your cat will bleed. Repeat with every paw. (its a good idea to keep quick stopper around, if you are not good at or comfortable with trimming nails take them to a groomer or vets office.)
Ear Cleaning
Shpynx have pretty dirty ears if you don't keep up with them. It may be easier if your cat is still wrapped up, but not always necessary. Use the ear cleaning solution to get the a little Q-tip moist, then using the Q-tip gently start cleaning the ears. (read and follow directions on bottle, do not put fluid directly in ear)You will need to use several Q-Tips. Please consult your vet about how to clean ears if worried. We clean where we can see and we carefully clean the inside where we cant see.
Feeding !
I use Purina one sensitive systems cat food. It can be found at Petco, Petsmart, Walmart and Publix. However, you can use any cat food you want. Just make sure it is a name brand cat food and preferably high in protein. Sphynx cats have not so pleasant smelling... yeah, and higher protein foods help keep that "lovely" smell down. Please avoid generic and lower quality brands!! It is also better for your baby if you avoid wet (canned) food. The wet food sticks to their teeth and can cause decay and horrible breath. It is ok to give wet food as a treat (2-4 times a month) but we do not recommend it for everyday food!!! Your new baby also needs to have food available at all times. Sphynx cats have a high metabolism ans they need to eat a little at a time but a lot through out the day.
Keeping warm!
Sphynx cats have a hard time staying warm. Imagine if you were naked all the time! A general rule of thumb is, If your cold they are too! If your "ok" in a shirt and pants they are cold and should have some clothes on also. It is also a great idea to keep a polyester or plush blanket in their favorite spots as well as on the couch. A heating blanket is also a great way to keep your baby warm! Also to be clear! sphynx cats can and will get sunburns, just as bad as us! Sphynx cats are inside cats. You can take them outside but only for a bit WITH YOU and it is not recommended. Unless your cat is fully utd and its not an area with cats other than yours.
Bath time!
Please keep in mind that Sphynx need bath time once a week (at least twice a month), and it can be very stressful. Some will be absolutely fine with it they may even like it, while others will freak out. I suggest that if you get a young sphynx give them a bath once a week, and while you are in the shower put a towel on the toilet so he/she can get used the the sound and the fact you go in there. This will help as your sphynx gets older to make bath time not so difficult. If despite all your efforts its still difficult. Try bathing your baby in a baby bath tub and be sure to use sweet calm voices and give him/her treats. Also make sure to "frozen kitty'' Grabbing the back of the neck. This will help keep you from getting scratched and keep him/her from getting hurt also. Make sure you already have the baby bath water ready. (Do NOT run the water with your baby in the room. It will scare them) Fill the bath up as needed but make sure it is not too hot or too cold. (as if you are giving a baby a bath) .
Items needed!
Baby bath or filled bath tub
Wash Cloths
Animal Shampoo
Q-Tips
Ear Cleaning Solution (you can get it at vet or local pet store)
Nail Clipper (I use baby nail clippers)
A towel and blanket (for after he/shes dry)
Now that you have everything you need put your Sphynx in the water and get him/her wet all over. You can do this with the wash rag or a small cup. You may want to start with the face so you don't get soap in his/her eyes. Then continue to wash your baby till he/she is all clean. Once you’re all done making sure they are all clean rinse and wrap your baby in the towel. If your cat dosent mind you messing with their feet and ears you can go ahead and, when dry, you can bundle them up in their blanket. If they do not like ear and nail cleaning time keep them bundled up in the towel (its easier).
Nail Cleaning!
With your cat still wrapped up expose one paw at a time and carefully push the pad of your cat’s paw to expose his/her nails and with the baby wash cloth wipe off every nail till it is clean, and once that foot is clean go back through and trim the nails. You have to be very careful with this part! (make sure to do this in a well lit room) Push their pads as you did before and clip the nail almost to the pink part, but make sure to not get to close if cut your cat will bleed. Repeat with every paw. (its a good idea to keep quick stopper around, if you are not good at or comfortable with trimming nails take them to a groomer or vets office.)
Ear Cleaning
Shpynx have pretty dirty ears if you don't keep up with them. It may be easier if your cat is still wrapped up, but not always necessary. Use the ear cleaning solution to get the a little Q-tip moist, then using the Q-tip gently start cleaning the ears. (read and follow directions on bottle, do not put fluid directly in ear)You will need to use several Q-Tips. Please consult your vet about how to clean ears if worried. We clean where we can see and we carefully clean the inside where we cant see.
