Sphynx cat

Sphynx cat | The sci-fi cat

The Sphynx, also known as the hairless cat, is a somewhat conspicuous creature. Firstly, the most prominent trait is the naked skin with the texture of a peach, its eyes look like they belong in a Sci-Fi movie, and often the cat comes with more wrinkles than Gordon Ramsay’s forehead.

The Sphynx does not like cold climates because they do not have any fur. And they don’t like warm temperatures, also because they don’t have fur. On the bright side, you don’t have to brush them, and they dry quickly after a bath.

Other than that, they have loud raspy voices that they like to use a lot. That is because they are highly intelligent and has an urge to socialise and be active all the time. The Sphynx does not enjoy solidarity and will want to be around its owners all the time, or else it will become depressed and lonely.

If you live in a household with a Sphynx, it is recommended that someone is home almost always. If that is not achievable, it is recommended to get another Sphynx or cat with similar social antennas to entertain each other.

The Naked cat goes along well with other pets and children, too, as it loves to run, jump, climb and play silly games.

Sphynx cat | History

Believe it or not, the Sphynx did not arrive on earth the same way E.T did; actually, it is a result of a natural mutation, to some extent. Sometimes kittens get born hairless due to what some people argue is a genetic disability. However, not everyone agrees it is a disability, so they decided to continue breeding those hairless kittens for the sake of hairlessness.

Discussions amongst cat fanciers tend to be pro or against hairlessness. The one side argues that cats need fur for protection from the cold and the burning sun, and therefore the hairlessness is a disability.

While the other side argues that humans used to have fur when we were monkeys and managed to adjust just fine, as we are hairless now– so pet sunscreen and cat clothes will do just fine, they argue.

Sphynx cat | Maintenance

The Sphynx dries quickly after a bath and doesn’t require brushing, which might seem nice and dandy for many cat owners. However, without fur, a potential owner needs to be prepared to get accustomed to other hygiene measures.

More often than most fury cats, the Sphynx needs to bathe. They don’t have fur but still produce natural oils as if they do, so if you leave them for too long without a bath, the cat will become greasy.

Providing the Sphynx with the right diet can reduce the greasiness; however, the greasiness can never fully disappear.

There are two other situations average cat owners don’t have to consider; Sphynx owners need to make sure the cat is provided with a certified pet sunscreen if the cat will be outside on a sunny day.

If it’s a cold day, the owner must provide blankets or cat clothes to ensure the cat doesn’t become cold. On cold days you will often find the cat sitting in someone’s lap to keep itself warm.

Health issues

The Sphynx is particularly prone to heart diseases, so it is highly recommended to have your cat screened before a potential purchase, as well as having regular check-ups at the veterinarian throughout its life.

Naked cats are not too common, so it is recommended to find a Veterinarian with experience in that particular field to ensure they can identify potential skin diseases most efficiently.

Dental problems are quite common with the Sphynx, so make sure to maintain good dental hygiene at all times.