The Loveable Hairless Sphynx

The Sphynx is bald ... not really.

It only appears hairless; in actuality it's covered in a fine down.  This down offers little protection against heat and cold, and for this reason a Sphynx needs to be kept sheltered.

Historically hairless cats have appeared at different times in various parts of the world but they would die out quickly because they had no protection from the environment.  It wasn't until a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Toronto, Canada, in 1966 that the Sphynx breed we know today got its start and has become the most successful of the hairless breeds.

Many people think the Sphynx looks like a creature from outer space.  What is lacks in hair, it makes up for with a strong medium-sized frame, well developed muscles, beckoning big eyes, and a friendly expression.  What draws most 'looks' is the potbelly, the wrinkles, and the bat like ears.  For many people the skin feels like a warm chamois to the touch.  Because the Sphynx lacks an insulating coat common to other breeds they actually perspire in order to regulate body temperature, and they do need to be bathed regularly to remove excess oil from their skin.

The Sphynx is an energetic, agile, playful, inquisitive, and highly intelligent cat.  They will learn to open cupboard doors and even fetch toys.  They are very outgoing and affectionate.  This 'high energy' characteristic helps to keep off the sedentary pounds other breeds tend to accumulate as they get older.

Because of their personality and inquisitive nature they relish in interactive companionship.  They seek the spotlight in all encounters and through these interactions you will begin to discover their mischievous nature that is so respected and appealing.  The Sphynx is not a 'loner', so if you are unable to provide enough quality interaction you should consider providing a companion - that companion could be another cat or even a dog, because the Sphynx easily makes friends.

When considering a cat tree for a Sphynx keep in mind the breed loves to be in the center of activity.  So your cat tree needs to be located in the activity center of your home where your cat will feel it's 'in the action'.  It would be ideal if you could also position your cat tree in direct sunlight.  Without an insulating coat the Sphynx enjoys laying in the warm sunlight.  The cat tree should have several layers for movement up and down the tree providing some exercise.  The tree should also have one or two cat condo units built in so the cat can go into a secluded area for peace and quiet and be protected from any household drafts that could chill the cat.

One of the features we build into our cat trees in a thermal retention liner that is placed in both the top flower and bed of the tree, and in the contoured leaves.  Our leaves are not flat - they are contoured to snuggle the cat.  Both the shape of the leaf and the heat retention liner greatly add to cat comfort.  These features should be top considerations for hairless cats.

Our recommended cat tree for the Sphynx is the Sunflower with a slight modification.  Request the flower petals turn up instead of down.  By turning the petals up you provide a more secure area where your cat will benefit from both the heat retention flower liner and body support as it's lying in the flower.  The Sunflower cat tree also has two built in cat condos where your cat can rest peacefully and enjoy its solitude.

The Sphynx is a soft-hearted friendly breed that always tries to make you happy and, for that reason alone, are wonderful cats to have in your home.