|
The Scratching Post
Sphynx 
The Sphynx (aka Canadian Hairless) has a very unique appearance. Its large ears, thin tail and nearly hairless body is like no other cat breed. The Sphynx is a medium-sized, elongated, muscular cat. The body is well-rounded and fully muscular. The back is slightly arched. The legs are well-proportioned and well-muscled. The tail is slender and tapering. The head is medium-sized, angular, and slightly triangular. The eyes are large, lemon-shaped, wide-set, and slightly slanted upward toward the ears, which are very large and wide-set. Though many believe that this breed is hairless, they are not. They may be covered with very soft, fine down, which is almost imperceptible to both the eye and touch. Lack of a coat makes the cat quite warm to the touch.
|
| Temperament |
The Sphynx is highly sociable and affectionate. It is sweet, loving and attention-seeking. They prefer the attention of humans, but also enjoy being with cat-friendly dogs and other cats. They can be lively and playful and can be taught to walk on a leash. This breed is extremely inquisitive and loves to be the center of attention. They will perform silly antics for your entertainment and will be down-right clumsy?but only for your amusement. This energy-filled cat always wants to be with you, on you or showing off for you. |
| Weight |
6-11 lbs. |
| Health Problems |
The Sphynx is a hardy breed, but is susceptible to weather-induced ailments, such as skin cancer. |
| Living Conditions |
This breed will be perfectly content in an apartment or house. They can be vulnerable to the cold and sun but there is no need for them to be kept exclusively indoors. They should be provided with shade on a sunny day and with a small jumper or sweater on cooler days, though putting clothes on a cat might prove to be quite a daunting task. They should be kept indoors during extreme weather days. |
| Exercise |
Though this breed enjoys socializing, they are able to entertain themselves by playing with their toys and utilizing a scratching post. |
| Life Expectancy |
About 10-15 years |
| Grooming |
This nearly hairless breed requires no brushing; however, regular washing with a wash cloth or with baby wipes is necessary. Since they have no fur around the ears to block dust and dirt from entering them, their ears need occasional cleaning as well. |
| Origin |
This breed originated from a hairless male kitten, named Prune, which was born in 1966 in Toronto, Canada. Prune was the offspring of Elizabeth, a black and white pet of Mrs. Micalwaith. The hairless trait, along with the excessively long and angular body, was caused by a spontaneous mutation due to a recessive gene. The kitten and mother were passed on to Mrs. Yania Bawa, a Siamese breeder, who bred the kitten back to its mother, producing more hairless kittens. The breeding program continued by breeding American Shorthair Females with hairless males. The Sphynx was accepted for competition in the Championship Class by The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) in February of 2002. |
Is a cat joining your family? Find everything you need to make your new cat or kitten feel at home. Check out our new cat checklist, or shop our selection of cat products from top quality foods to their favorite toys!
Join our mailing list for monthly savings.