Contrary to popular belief, Sphynx cats did not originate in Egypt. In 1966, in Toronto, Ontario, a domestic short haired cat named Elizabeth gave birth to a hairless cat that was named “Prune”.
Sphynx cats are highly intelligent, alert and inquisitive of their environment. If you are looking for a cat that is independent and won’t require much one on one time, this isn’t the breed for you! They are extremely loyal and affectionate, often picking a favourite person in their family and becoming their shadow. Don’t be surprised if your Sphynx joins you in the bathroom, bed (under the covers of course) and even sits close by to watch you prepare meals. Because they are so smart you have to keep them busy with toys or visual stimulation or they can become destructive because they search out things to see and do.
If you have windows with a view of trees or even just a garden, show them the scenery and help them notice birds or squirrels and you will be sure to notice them spending time there often, taking in some free entertainment. Toys where you both can participate (balls, cat springs, toys on strings) will become a favourite and prepare to have them depend on you to play as well. It is a great idea to rotate their toys every 3-4 months and hide older toys well out of their sight. Once that old and boring toy from 4 months ago makes a new appearance, they will fall in love all over again.
They benefit from having a companion but a slow or early introduction is important as they sometimes can be unwelcoming of new animals in the home. It is not uncommon for Sphynx cats to be trained to walk on a leash/harness or even use the toilet!
If you are looking for a super intelligent, attention seeking, loving, active and funny best friend – these little “aliens” would make a great addition to your family.
Weight:
- Male: 8-11 lbs.
- Female: 6-8 lbs.
Features:
- Hairless (“peach fuzz” over body and can have small amounts of fur on the ears, feet and tail) wrinkles visible since there is no fur covering body
- NOT hypoallergenic – it is cat saliva that causes allergies in people
- Long, lean and muscular body
- Large, upright ears
- Big, lemon shaped eyes
- Wedge shaped head
- Colours/patterns include: Black, white, red, chocolate, blue, cream, calico, tortoiseshell, tabby, spotted, fawn, pointed, mink and bi-colour.
Expectations:
- Tendency to vocalize: High
- Affection level: High
- Child friendly: High
- Dog friendly: High
- Energy level: High
- Grooming: Low (but will need to be bathed every 2 weeks)
- Health issues: Moderate
- Intelligence: High
- Average Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Respiratory infections/viruses
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM)
- Hereditary Myopathy
