Sphynxes are one of those breeds that cannot be confused with any other. Their history began with a natural mutation, when ordinary domestic cats gave birth to kittens without hair. This feature was so impressive that breeders from Canada and the United States decided to develop the line into a separate breed. Thus appeared the Canadian Sphynx – a cat that perfectly embodies the concept of “nu” in the animal world. Bare skin replaces wool, folds add relief, and every curve of the body becomes visible, as on a sculpture. This is why sphinxes seem open, alive, almost human in their defenselessness and expression. Their large ears, almond-shaped eyes and velvet fluff or complete lack of fur create the image of a creature that looks alien and very warm at the same time. The breed has varying degrees of “holosity,” from completely smooth to soft “peachy,” and any coloration we are used to seeing in cats can show up in the pattern on the Sphynx’s skin.
Sphynx character
Everyone who at least once dealt with sphinxes, say one thing: it’s not just a cat. This is a separate emotion. Sphynxes are incredibly social, they literally live next to a person – not because of instinct, but because they want to. They are always around, always in your arms, always want warmth and attention. They are cats that sleep under the blanket, look into the eyes, “talk” with their funny intonations and react to the mood of the owner. Their behavior often resembles that of a dog: they walk with a tail, play, are sad when left alone. Sphynxes are very intelligent and easy to train, but at the same time emotional – their attachment to humans is so strong that they literally need to be around.
Sphynx care
Despite the Sphynx’s minimalist appearance, grooming is more complicated than most furry breeds. The lack of fur means that all the work of the skin – sebum, heat exchange, defense – is shown as openly as possible. That’s why a sphynx needs to be bathed regularly, the skin needs to be cleaned of secretions, and the ears, eyes, and claws need to be carefully cared for. Their skin is delicate, warm and gets dirty quickly, so baths once every 7-10 days are the norm. Due to the lack of eyelashes, their eyes may water and their ears accumulate secretion faster than normal cats. Sphynxes are very sensitive to temperature: they freeze at the slightest draft, looking for warm places, willingly wear clothes and often warm themselves in the arms of a person. But the sun is also dangerous for them – the skin can get burned, so you need caution. Their life is a separate world of warm plaids, soft houses and clean beds, which have to be washed more often than with owners of ordinary cats, because the sphinx skin leaves a characteristic mark. Nutrition must also be controlled: sphinxes are very energetic and have an appetite, so they are prone to overeating.
Sphynx health
Sphynxes are a breed that requires careful health monitoring. The most important thing is a regular heart check, because they are the ones with HCMP, so responsible breeders are sure to test the parents. Skin also requires monitoring: acne, irritation, excessive dryness or oiliness can occur at different periods of life. Sphynxes react quickly to temperature changes, so the content should be stable and comfortable. In general, a healthy Sphynx lives a long and active life if all care needs are met consistently.
Sphynx grooming
Professional grooming is especially beneficial for this breed. At the salon, groomers gently bathe with mild products, clean the skin, work the ears and eyes, and do the claws – all thoroughly and safely. Professional shampoos give the skin an even moisturizing, relieve excess sebum and prevent irritations. This is a big help for owners, because sometimes grooming at home can be difficult, especially if the cat doesn’t like bathing or won’t let you clean his ears. Proper grooming can help your Sphynx look neat, maintain healthy skin and avoid minor dermatological problems.
Advantages and disadvantages
Sphynxes give warmth in the literal sense: their body is warmer, they seek contact, look directly into the soul and give a person all their attention. They are unique, charismatic, photogenic and extremely open. But the breed has requirements: regular bathing, obligatory skin and ear care, temperature control, attention to health. They are not suitable for those who want a “cat for themselves”, because the sphynx is a cat that lives near you every day, demanding reciprocity.
