FAQs
Do sphynx cats smell?
Unlike commonly believed, sphynx cats actually have very little to no odor. Their lack of coat means they do not retain smells on their skin or fur like other breeds. However, they do require regular bathing to prevent body oils from building up.
Sphynx cats that are fed a high-quality diet bathed regularly with appropriate cat-safe cleansers, and have their ears cleaned weekly generally have just a faint natural skin musk smell—similar to that of a human. Poor diet, infrequent bathing, skin/ear infections, etc can cause stronger odors like in any other cat. But with proper care, sphynxes tend to be some of the least smelly pets.
Do sphynx cats come from Egypt?
While some speculate sphynx cats originated from ancient Egyptian cats depicted in hieroglyphics, there is no scientific evidence to confirm this. The breed as we know it today was developed through selective breeding starting in the 1960s.
A hairless cat named “Trouble” from Toronto, Canada, is considered the sphynx breed’s foundation ancestor. Breeders expanded the gene pool through test matings of Trouble’s offspring with other hairless or slightly haired cats. The distinctive wrinkly sphynx variety was officially recognized as a unique breed by cat associations in the 1980s.
While hairless cats have indeed existed for centuries, the modern sphinx breed originated through recent selective breeding in North America rather than direct descent from Egyptian cats thousands of years ago. Their name simply pays homage to ancient Egypt rather than tracing an ancestral line.
Is a sphynx cat a good pet?
Sphynx cats can absolutely make wonderful pets for the right owner. Some key things to consider include:
- Affectionate nature: Sphynx are known for their playful, people-oriented personalities. They bond strongly with their human families.
- Allergy-friendly: Unlike many cats, sphynxes don’t trigger dander allergies as they don’t shed fur or dander.
- Interactive needs: Sphynx thrives on one-on-one interaction and playtime with owners daily. They aren’t suited to neglectful homes.
- High maintenance coats: Care includes frequent brushing, occasional bathing, and application of skin moisturizers. Daily massage helps distribute oils.
- Higher purchase costs: Sphynx kittens are often more expensive than average due to selective breeding programs.
For an owner committed to spending hands-on time, keeping up with their unique coat care needs, and willing to pay a premium, sphynx cats can be truly rewarding companion animals. Their playful, affectionate personalities and lack of dander shedding make them a great choice for families seeking interactive pets. While they require more dedication than low-maintenance breeds, their loving bonds, and one-of-a-kind charms win over owners time and again. With proper care, sphynxes thrive as fun-loving members of homes where they receive the attention and affection they crave.
Why are sphynx cats hairless?
Sphynx cats lack fur due to a natural genetic mutation. Unlike other breeds selectively bred for hairlessness over many generations, sphynxes carry a single autosomal dominant gene (Hr) that causes hairlessness upon first expression—meaning only one parent needs to have the gene for kittens to be born hairless.
This gene impacts the skin by instructing follicles to produce fewer or abnormally short hairs that remain embedded in layers of skin. Scientists believe it emerged spontaneously at some point in an individual domestic shorthair cat in Canada in the 1960s. Through test matings, breeders proved the mutation could be reliably passed on.
While other hairless breeds result from long-term selective breeding after many generations, sphynx cats trace their distinctive lack of coat to a one-time spontaneous genetic change that was then purposefully bred into a newly recognized breed in a relatively short time span. Their hairless appearance stems directly from this dominant single gene.
Sphynx Cat Breeds
The Sphynx cat is a unique, hairless breed of domestic cat known for its soft, wrinkly skin. While its appearance may seem strange at first, the Sphynx is a lively, affectionate companion and can make an excellent pet for the right owner.
There are several distinct varieties of Sphynx cats recognized today:
- Original or Standard Sphynx – The breed as originally developed, with no coat.
- Rex Sphynx – A rare double-recessive mutation that causes the hair follicles to produce hair that feels more like down or wool than fur. Rex Sphynxes have a soft coat.
- Longhaired Sphynx – A spontaneous genetic mutation that produces odd tufts or “plumes” of long, silky hair in some areas of the body.
- Deviant or Partial Sphynx – Cats showing remnants of a coat, such as bangs, mutton chops, or toe tufts. Deviants are not recognized as a separate breed.
Of these variations, the original hairless standard is by far the most commonly seen. Let’s take a closer look at their unique appearance and characteristics.
Sphynx Cat with Hair Breed
While most Sphynx cats are completely hairless, there is a rare breed variation called the Rex Sphynx that does have a very fine coat. Rex Sphynx cats possess a genetic mutation that causes their hair follicles to produce wool-like down instead of regular fur. This down is much shorter and softer than traditional cat coats.
Rex Sphynxes still lack the thick insulating fur of other breeds, but their own gives their skin more protection and warmth than a standard hairless Sphynx. The down is very short and feels velvety soft. It comes in any color or pattern found in standard Sphynxes.
Despite their coating, Rex Sphynxes are still considered a “hairless” breed since the down does not provide the same level of insulation as a regular cat’s fur. They require similar care to standard hairless cats and have matching personalities. However, the down does give their skin a slightly different texture – more like soft peaches than wrinkly potatoes!
Rex Sphynxes remain quite rare compared to their hairless cousins. Their double recessive gene mutation only occurs in about 1 in 10,000 kittens. They make a fascinating alternative for owners seeking a slightly furry twist on the exotic Sphynx.
Sphynx Cat Lifespan
On average, Sphynx cats have a lifespan similar to many other domesticated cat breeds – 12 to 15 years. With good medical care, diet, and environment, many Sphynxes live to be 17 years or older. Their hairlessness does not negatively impact their longevity.
As with all cats, genetics and lifestyle choices can influence an individual Sphynx’s lifespan. Cats who are well-fed, have a high-quality diet, receive regular preventative healthcare, including vaccinations and deworming, and live indoors without threats of diseases or injury tend to live the longest.
Some factors that may shorten a Sphynx cat’s life include:
- Obesity – Being overweight puts extra stress on organs and joints.
- Poor immune system – As with any pet, keeping vaccinations up to date helps avoid infectious illnesses.
- Neglect – Without proper care, skin problems or injuries could develop.
- Stress – Sphynxes thrive in an affectionate, stable home environment.
With attentive ownership focusing on wellness, most Sphynx kitties can look forward to enjoying many active, playful years with their families. Their hairlessness does not define their lifespan potential.
Sphynx Cat Size and Price
When fully grown at about 12-18 months, the average size of a Sphynx cat is:
- Males: 4-7 lbs (1.8-3.2 kg)
- Females: 4-6 lbs (1.8-2.7 kg)
However, their weight can vary more than a typical long-haired breed. Some stud males reach 8-9 lbs, while petite females stay under 4 lbs. In general, they have lanky yet muscular builds and a feeling of lightweight heft, thanks to their lack of insulation.
As for prices, pet quality Sphynx kittens from a reputable breeder in Australia typically sell for:
- Regular/pet quality: $1200-1800 AUD
- Champion pedigree: $1800-2500 AUD
- Special coloring (point, silver, etc.): $2000-3000 AUD
Adopting a retired adult show or breeding cat is often more affordable at $600-1200 depending on age and temperament testing. Prices vary greatly depending on location, demand, and individual catteries. Be wary of unusually low-cost cats, as quality breeding is important for health.
In exchange for their unique charms and lively personalities, Sphynx owners can expect to pay a premium compared to many other cat breeds. But for the right family, their loving nature makes them worth every dollar.
Black Sphynx Cat
While Sphynx coats come in every color, the black variety possesses an especially dramatic appearance. Their deep pitch-black skin provides a striking backdrop to showcase mesmerizing eyes that truly pop, whether green, gold, or blue.
Black Sphynx fur genes (B/B) create a high-contrast canvas allowing their colorful irises and fine facial features to dazzle. With a coat as dark as midnight, they resemble miniature black panthers prowling about – elusive shadows until they solicit affection with a hearty purr!
Their inky hue absorbs radiant heat well, so black Sphynxes stay cozy in cooler environments. And with a pigment protecting their delicate skin from sun damage, these beauties boast enviable lifelong skin health. Whether absorbing rays like a warm rock or melting hearts with a megawatt smile, black truly is the new purple for these fashionable felines!
While all cats shine with their unique personalities, the stunning stage of a black coat amplifies the wonder of these winsome wigglebugs. Their striking appearance complements the playful charm within, creating cats that demand and receive endless admiration wherever they roam. For owners seeking to showcase the magic of the hairless breed, black is a showstopping selection.
