The Sphynx Cat

Although hairless cats have been mentioned throughout history the modern Sphynx breed, also known as the Canadian Sphynx or Canadian Hairless, originated from individuals in Canada and the U.S. from the 1960's and 70's. Careful efforts created today's cat which has a consistent breed standard, appearance and temperament. The Sphynx cat is a small, sturdily built cat with a characteristic "pot-belly". Fur is nearly absent or extremely fine and suede-like. Whiskers are often curled, stunted or completely missing. Without fur, the body warmth can be felt directly, and petting a Sphynx is a unique experience. Sphynx are very cuddly and love close contact.

 Cool Cat Facts...
Tiny Sphynx kittens are unique in the cat world in that their eyes open very early - usually within 3 days of birth. Some are even born with their eyes open!                                                                      

Is A Sphynx Cat Right For You?

The Sphynx cat is recognized by the Cat Fanciers Association (CFA), the world's largest cat organization. It is a relatively uncommon pure-bred or "pedigreed" domestic cat breed. Regular, careful bathing is necessary so that oils don't build up and cause skin irritation.  Sphynx must be protected from extreme temperatures, and too much sunlight can cause sunburn. These are small cats that surprisingly have few breed-related health issues when simple precautions are taken. Because it is active and desires interaction the Sphynx can make a nice family cat, but children must be very considerate because the lack of fur leaves these cats somewhat vulnerable if handled roughly.

Sphynx Cat Breed Standards

Head Shape: The head is a modified wedge shape, longer than wide, with flat forehead and prominent cheekbones. The chin and muzzle are well developed with a slight break at bridge of the nose.  The ears are very large, wide at the base, and wide open. They should be set wide and high on the skull and are tall, with rounded tips. The eyes should be large and almond-shaped, slightly slanted. They should not be recessed nor bug-eyed.. Any eye color is acceptable. Eyebrows and whiskers may be curly, broken, or completely absent.
Body and Tail: The body is small in size but hard and well-muscled. The belly may appear to be full and round like a "pot belly". Wide, firm chest and torso. The neck is arched and muscular.  Legs are well-boned, wide-set and medium in length.  The feet are oval shaped with long, slender toes. The paw and toe pads are very thick giving a cushioned look to the walk. The tail is very thin and whip-like.
Coat: The cat should be basically hairless, or with some extremely fine, down-like hair. Many individuals are born with varying degrees of fur but should be bald by their second birthday. Kittens are often quite wrinkled, and Heavy wrinkles are desirable in the adult, especially on the head.
Pattern: All colors are allowed.
Overall Appearance: This is a small to medium size, well built cat with good bone. The cat should not appear overly dainty. The overall impression is amazing. Large ears, large, brilliant eyes, small, round, basically naked body. A truly unique cat. They should be bald and wrinkled, and the body should be very warm with a feel of velvet. This is an out-going, active and intelligent cat of great charm and unforgettable appearance.

Inside Cat or Outside Cat?

Wondering if you should allow your cat to go outside unsupervised? Well there are definitely some pure breeds that should never be outside cats. Hairless breeds like the Sphynx are extremely vulnerable and should always be supervised outdoors. Docile breeds like the Burmese may not be able to defend themselves. All cats allowed outdoors are exposed to diseases and parasites that they would not otherwise encounter. Fred Flintstone put his saber-tooth out every night, but the cat jumped right back in the window - and he was a saber-tooth! Still, most of us feel a little envy when we see our domestic companion out on some high perch, sniffing the breeze of liberty, and there is no doubt that cats love their freedom. So what do YOU think ....Inside Cat or Outside Cat? Comment Here...

                       Back from Sphynx Cat to Cat Breeds Encyclopedia.com