The Great Sphynx Cat

The Sphynx cat is one of the sweetest, most intelligent, playful, and affectionate animals there are. They make excellent pets and loving companions.

Roscoe and Riley sphynx cats looking out the window Roscoe and Riley sphynx cats sleeping.

The Breed

History

The origins of the sphynx occured when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Ontario, Canada in 1966. This was a natural mutation and the cats were originally named Canadian Hairless Cats. They were later called Sphynx because they resembled the Egyptian\ Sphynx sculpture. Then between 1975 and 1978, more naturally occuring mutations of hairless kittens were found in Minnesota and Toronto. They were bred to the Devon Rex, and another breed that had very little body hair. There are now several thousand Sphynx registered in the world.

Appearance

According to the Cat Fanciers Association, "The texture of the Sphynx skin has been compared to a suede covered hot water bottle or a heated chamois". Their coats come in many different patterns and colors and I find them irresistable to the touch. When I first met my sphynx, I thought they would feel slimy and icky but was pleasantly surprised to find that they are not totally bald. They have a very light down coat and their body temperature is warm. For this reason, they make great cuddle buddies. They also have big ears and large expressive eyes. A friend of mine says that "they look like they are staring into your soul."

Personality

The Sphynx is very intelligent and loves to play. They love toys such as balls, lasers, and anything with movement. My two boys also enjoy chasing each other around the house.or trying to interact with their furry sister. They will chase her or jump on top of her to get her to notice them. They also like a lot of attention from their human companions. The Internation Cat Association says, "The term "Velcro lap cat" used to describe the desire of the Sphynx to be on you all the time, is very accurate." They like meeting new people and loooove to be with their own people. Because they get cold, they try to find warm places to sleep like on top of a register or under the covers. My guys like to burrow under the covers with me at night and then wake me up in the morning by playing with my toes. .

Getting A Sphynx

Here is a list of things I think you should consider when adopting a sphynx.

  1. Find a reputable breeder by looking at referrals from the websites of The Cat Fanciers Association or The International Cat Association
  2. Call the breeder and ask them every question you can think of about their sphynx
  3. If possible visit the breeder in person and see where they breed their cats and meet your future kids.
  4. Make sure your home is ready for your new friend. Make sure that there are plenty of toys and warm places. And also make certain that your new sphynx is unable to get outside.
  5. After you've adopted your buddy, take them to your vet and have them thoroughly checked out.