Sphynx Cat

The sphynx cat breed is unique and known for its lack of fur coat. This breed is considered rare and unusual. These cats are loyal and will make great companions for their owners. They are also recognized as Canadian sphynx or Canadian hairless.

These felines are amazing cats with affectionate natures that get along well with kids and other pets. Canadian hairless can be a great addition to any family as they are highly active and smart. Additionally, they require a lot of care so do not be deceived by their low-maintenance appearance.

Moreover, this breed is generally healthy but may develop certain health issues throughout its life. Therefore, you must be conscious regarding its health and dietary needs. If you want to learn more about the history, appearance, personality, and care of Canadian hairless, check out the details below.

Name:

Sphynx

Other Names:

Alien Cat, Hairless cat, Canadian Cat, Moon Cat

Origin:

Popularity:

#8 (CFA)

Size:

Medium

Lifespan:

8-14 Years

The Sphynx breed originated in Toronto, Canada in 1966. They are originally called the Canadian hairless. Also, this is the only cat breed that originated in Canada.

The estimated population of the Sphynx is around 10,000 to 15,000, but the exact number is still unknown. The low population of the Canadian hairless is due to its rarity and the fact that it is a relatively new breed. According to the cat fanciers association, the Sphynx ranked 8th as the most popular breed.

The sphynx is an expensive breed. A reputable breeder may charge between $3500 and $5000 for one. However, their prices mostly depend on the location, cat color, and breeder reputation. 

Adopting a Canadian hairless from a local shelter is a cheaper option than purchasing from a breeder. But, finding these unique cats in a shelter will be challenging as they are rare. If you find one, you will have to pay an adoption fee which usually ranges from $100 to $300.

In 1966, sphynx cats were discovered in Ontario, Canada when a genetic mutation led to the birth of a hairless kitten among a litter of domestic shorthair cats. It was a male kitten named Prune who was born black and white. After that, Ridyadh Bawa, a science graduate, and his mother Yania Bawa adopted prune and developed the breed with the help of two breeders, Keese and Rita Tenhoves.

Keesa and Rita Tenhoves initially secured provisional showing status for the sphynx breed from the Cat Fancier’s Association. But in 1971, the CFA withdrew the Canadian hairless status because of fertility issues. And then the breed was recognized by the CFA in 2002 and TICA accepted the Canadian hairless in 2005. 

Breeders mixed the sphynx with domestic shorthair, American shorthair, and Devon Rex breeds to expand genetic variation and create a healthier breed. A cat breeder named Shirley Smith discovered three hairless kittens in 1978. She sent two kittens named Paloma and Punkie to Dr. Hugo Hernandez in the Netherlands to breed them with a white Devon rex.

Size and Weight

Sphynxes are medium-sized felines. They are slow-growing cats, reaching their full size in two to three years. Male Sphynx Cat Growth tends to be bigger than females in terms of weight, height, and body length. The male weighs around eight to twelve pounds while the female cat weighs approximately six to ten pounds. The table below covers the overall body size and weight of Canadian hairless.

Appearance

The hairless coat of Canadian sphynx is its most unique feature. These felines are often easy to identify through their hairless coats. Additionally, they have a muscular build and large belly. The Canadian hairless have large lemon-shaped eyes and large triangle-shaped ears. 

Moreover, the skin of a sphynx cat is soft and wrinkly, feeling like warm peaches. They have prominent, rounded cheekbones. In their unique appearance, you may also see long legs, tails, and a wedge-shaped head.

Colors and Patterns

There is a wide range of colors in the sphynx breed which means you will have many options when you go to own one. The coat patterns of these felines are solid, bi-color, tabby, calico, mink, pointed, and tortoiseshell. You will see different color variations in each color pattern of the Sphynx breed. Here are some notable color variations in each pattern.

Solid

• Red 
• Black
• White
• Brown
• Lavender 
• Cinnamon
• Sable
• Platinum
• Champagne 
• Cream 
• Blue 
• Fawn

Bi-Colors

• Grey and White
• Blue and White
• Black and White
• Brown and White

Tabby Colors

• Cream
• Chocolate 
• Blue 
• Brown 
• Red
• Silver
• Lavender-silver
• Cinnamon silver
• Chocolate silver
• Fawn
• Lavender
• Cinnamon

Pointed Colors

• Chocolate 
• Lavender
• Fawn
• Cinnamon

Lifespan 

The average lifespan of Sphynx is shorter than many popular cat breeds. According to the ASPCA, the Canadian hairless life expectancy is around 8 to 14 years. However, many cats live only 3 to 7 years due to unpredicted health issues. Also, some cats can live around fifteen years if they are healthy.

The life of Canadian hairless is enhanced when they are well cared for. A cat’s lifespan can be influenced by whether it is kept indoors or allowed outside. Moreover, female cats often live longer than males. Spayed and neutered cats also have longer life expectancy compared to intact cats.

Temperament 

Sphynx cats are sweet-tampered and amenable to handling. They are loving and great companions. Canadian hairless are active and energetic cats who want to be involved in everything you are doing. Their energetic nature also allows them to follow their owner around the house. 

These felines are loyal and will stay with you forever. You may always enjoy with them as they are entertaining pets. They love to engage with toys such as puzzle toys and cat trees. They also have a sociable temperament with people and other pets, so don’t leave sphynx for too long, especially kittens.

Intelligent 

Sphynx cats are known for being smart and intelligent. They are quick to learn tricks and generally excellent at training sessions. These felines are smart enough to get into things when not kept entertained. Also, their intelligence can be demonstrated during training sessions or when they play with toys.

Loyal 

Sphynx cats are extremely loyal pets, much like dogs. You may leave them, but these felines will stay with you until their last breath. They will follow you wherever you go and you may always find them at the doorstep when you come home.

Friendly 

It’s always fascinating to own a friendly pet like a Sphynx Cat. They are friendly and playful with all family members. Also, these felines get along great with other household pets. Their friendly nature often makes it easy for owners to train them.

Affectionate 

Even though Sphynx Cats are not lap cats, they will allow you to cuddle them. These felines enjoy spending time with family or even guests at home. They also show love to their owners by obeying commands and responding quickly when called.

Vocalization

Sphynx are highly vocal and talkative. They communicate with a variety of sounds such as steady chatter, squeaks, and chirps. These cats have very loud voices and enjoy conversing with everyone. 

Sphynx cats also vocalize when they have to express their emotions such as pain and discomfort. These felines produce MEOW sounds when they need their owner’s attention. However, they might not be a better choice for people who want a quiet pet.

Grooming

Sphynx is a high-maintenance breed that needs regular grooming to stay clean. As these cats are hairless, they do not need to be brushed. But Canadian hairless produce a buildup of dirt and natural oils so they require more frequent baths than other cats. 

Bathe them every week with warm water and hypoallergenic shampoo. Moisturize their skin with a cat-specific coconut oil after bathing. Moisturizing will help keep your cat’s skin hydrated.

The nails of Sphynx Cats should be trimmed regularly with a cat-specific nail clipper. These felines require teeth brushing three times a week as they are more prone to dental problems. Also, clean their ear with a vet-approved ear cleaner to prevent ear infections.

Diet

A well-balanced diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in protein is recommended for these hairless felines. As Canadian hairless are carnivores, they will eat only a meat-based diet. The high-protein meat option can be chicken, lean meat, and turkey. Give them seafood such as tuna, shellfish, and salmon once a week.

Sphynx cats also require more food and calories than average felines due to their high metabolism. A grazing-style diet will be ideal for Canadians hairless but make sure they eat the right amount for their age and size. Moreover, healthy fats such as omega 3 and omega fatty acids should be included in their diet.

Freshwater

Provide plenty of clean and fresh water to your sphynx cat. Water is important for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and hydration of Canadian hairless. Refill their bowl regularly as they do not drink stale water. Be sure to wash the bowl before refilling it. These felines also love drinking water from the fountain and running tap water. 

Exercise 

Exercise is important for keeping your Canadian hairless physically fit and avoiding weight gain. Exercise is good for making a bond with a cat while keeping her healthy and active. These hairless felines love to run through the house so keeping them busy with physical activities will be easy. Along with long walks, you can play games with your cat such as fetch, chasing toys, hide and seek, etc.

• Hairless appearance: Sphynx Cats are popular for their hairless appearance, which is caused by a recessive genetic mutation. To express the hairless trait, a kitten must inherit both parents’ genes. However, they also have a downy layer of fur that’s almost invisible to the eye. 
• Appeared in a movie: Sphynx cats appeared in movies like Gloria Bell and The Secret Life of Pets. In Gloria Bell, a stray sphynx cat keeps showing up at Gloria’s apartment. Moreover, a red sphynx cat, named Ozone (voiced by Steve Coogan) appeared in The Secret Life of Pets.
• Natural climber: The muscular body and strength of a sphynx cat make her an excellent climber. As Sphynx cats love to climb, you may always find them on a cat tree. They also use their strong, dexterous paws for climbing.

Sphynx are unique due to their hairless coats. Despite their lack of fur, they need a lot of grooming. You may need to spend a significant amount of money on their purchase and monthly expenses. Moreover, they are intelligent and affectionate, making them wonderful family pets. Be mindful of their health care as they are prone to many health issues.