Sphynx Cat
Sphynx Cat
- Lifespan: 15 years
- Origin : Great Britain
- Other names : British Blue
- Scientific name : Felis catus
- Higher classification : Cat
- Rank : Breed
Sphynx Cat Breed Information
The Sphynx cat breed is known for her nearly nude appearance, i.e., lack of fur. Hairlessness in cats is a result of genetic condition and Sphynx was developed through mutation of these animals. They are known to be the most affectionate, socially able and intelligent cats in the world.” The cat is an energetic companion and well-suited for homes with multiple pets.
Different Colours
- White
- Black
- Tabby
- Red
- Lavender
- Calico
- Pointed
- Mink
Characteristics
- Sphynx is a medium-sized cat identified by her hairless, wrinkled skin and large ears. The dense muscular body seems heavy for her size.
- Aside from the naked body, Sphynx is known for their lemon-shaped eyes, large ears, and a big rounded belly.
- The cat appears bald at first instance but a close inspection will help you know about the fine hair that gives skin a fine pattern. The color and the pigmentation pattern can vary widely.
- Their unconventional appearance has gained her fair share of fans
- The clownish cats are loving, intelligent, affectionate, engaging and devoted pets.
- The cat can be found in multiple colors like – chocolate, cinnamon, lavender, blue/gray, black/ebony, Lilac, white, orange.
Average Weight
The medium-sized Sphynx cats weigh around 6-12 pounds with an average lifespan of 8-14 years. A fully-grown female weighs around 8in./6lbs and a male weighs around 10in/12lbs.
Personality
- Sphynx are fun-loving natural-born entertainers creatures that love to cuddle and spend hours glued to the side of their owners.
- Adaptive and intelligent. They display a high level of dedication, intelligence, curiosity and affection for their owners.
- It is one of the most adorable cats who loves to greet the owner at the door and are friendly to strangers
- They are social animals and get along well with other cats and dogs in the neighbourhood.
- They are known for their heat-seeking instinct and are commonly found on refrigerators, basking in the sun, or under blankets.
- It is a high-maintenance breed and attention seekers.
- The Sphynx is curious and dextrous and uses long fingers to open and close the doors.
- The cat loves to be on the shelves. Nothing is too narrow for her to sit on.
- Sphynx cats love to jump and play and fetch when trained and respond well to reinforcement training.
Health Issues
While the cat is dear to its owner, it is susceptible to catching some genetic health conditions related to its breed.
Despite its hairless body structure, it requires proper grooming sessions. As for the regular cats, the body oils get absorbed by the fur, but Sphynx, who lacks that attribute fails in retaining the oil and can lead to serious skin problems if not groomed.
It is advisable to keep Sphynx away from direct sun. Although a small amount of sunlight will help intensify the color, too much exposure can burn it too.
Unlike other cat breeds, the Sphynx is generally healthy.
It can still develop serious health conditions like Cardiomyopathy (HCM), hereditary myopathy, and the dermatological condition Urticaria Pigmentosa. Apart from this, Sphynx is susceptible to bacterial and viral infections like calicivirus, panleukopenia, and rabies which are preventable through vaccination.
For keeping her pink in health, check her diet, make sure she gets plenty of exercise, proper grooming sessions, schedule examinations, and vaccinations.
Diet
The big round bellies prove how much Sphynx loves food. They will eat anything you put on their plate. Hence, you need to be extremely conscious of the same.
Having a sensitive digestive system, small meals throughout the day are generally considered ideal for cats.
When you start looking for the right food for your Sphynx, you must examine the nutrition before offering.
To talk of nutrition requirements, Sphynx needs a lot of protein despite the small structure. The primary source of protein includes raw chicken, raw liver, heart, and raw fish. You should always offer kibble to your Sphynx, make sure your cat gets the balanced protein.
Raw eggs and milk can pose a danger to younger kittens.
Eye Color
Sphynx usually have Vivid blue color eyes. They display a rare trait known as heterochromia, in which each of their eye colors is different. Other common eye colors include copper, yellow, orange, green, and red.
That’s all about the Sphynx cats. Hope you like the information. Stay tuned for more.
The Lifespan of Sphynx cats
Sphynx cats are one of the high-maintenance cats that often need to wear something to remain warm in chilly winters. Despite having genetic, neurological, and pigmentation issues, the breed has an average lifespan of 10-15 years.
Shedding
In general, Sphynx cats have minimal grooming needs. Known for hairlessness, these cats do have a suede-like coat that does not need to be combed but must be bathed regularly. It is because the coat is prone to become oily in the absence of the fur and bathing helps clear the pores and eliminate the trace of greasiness.
Furthermore, it is vital to dry the cat almost immediately after the bath to prevent their skin from getting chapped. Sphynx is prone to develop infections, hence it is required of you to use the right products prescribed by your vet.
Moreover, Sphynx is prone to develop skin infections and ear problems, thus, it is important to conduct regular grooming sessions for removing excess wax from the ears.