Sphynx

The Sphynx Cat

The primary characteristic of a Sphynx cat is its lack of fur! However, the cats are not fully hairless; they are coated with thin, downy hair that is reported to resemble peach skin. This cat is devoid of whiskers and lashes. The head has a striking resemblance to that of a Devon Rex. The eyes are deep set and lemon-shaped. The physique is lean and strong, with a barrel chest. The legs are long and thin, giving the illusion of bow legs due to the barrel chest. The tail is lengthy and tapered, making it difficult to touch. They are warm and luxurious to the touch, earning the moniker'suede hot water bottle'. The skin is wrinkled in some areas of the head, body, and legs, but should be tight throughout. The Sphynx cat's skin is highly pigmented. Any skin tone or colour is permitted.

History

For aeons, hairless cats have been known; the Aztecs are claimed to have had hairless cats. The Sphynx cat is the first hairless cat breed developed particularly for that characteristic. The breeding programme began in 1966 in Ontario, Canada, when a hairless male kitten was born to a domestic cat. However, the majority of modern Sphynx cats are derived from three hairless kittens discovered in Toronto in 1978.

Personality

Sphynx cats are sociable, mischievous, people-oriented, and enjoy being noticed. When these hairless cats return home, they frequently meet their owners and are rather communicative. They are extremely clever, playful, and affectionate. Sphynxes are world-class purrers. They enjoy sleeping in the same bed as their owners - beneath the covers. Their body temperature is a degree or two higher than that of typical cats, and to compensate for the heat loss, they have ravenous appetites. Due to their lack of protection from the elements, these bald cats cannot be left outside in the winter; they dislike sitting on cold surfaces and love central heating! Those who do venture outdoors in the sun may require sun protection due to their pale complexion.