SPHYNX

Unlike any other cat, the Sphynx is a unique breed made famous for its lack of fur coat. The Sphynx is known to have few health and genetic problems. However, its hairless feature makes it very distinctive among its furry counterparts.


A Brief History of the Canadian Hairless/Sphynx


This feline story begins in 1966 when, in Cabbagetown, Toronto, a short-haired cat gave birth to a hairless kitten named Prune. Prune was used to further develop the breed, but initial efforts proved difficult as there were limited amounts of the gene pool to go around. With the naturally occurring birth of another hairless kitten the opportunity to further advance and develop the breed presented itself.


Physical Features


The most prominent feature of a Sphynx is its hairless body, though there are traces of hair on the nose, tail and toes. Any pattern or color can be found in this breed, appearing at any age. Its skin is like a hot water bottle covered with suede and its whiskers and eye brows may or may not be present.


The normal life-span of a sphynx ranges between 9-15 years of age. However, there is one account of a sphynx living till 34; the longest of any cat breed.  


Personality 


Sphynxes are total extroverts; they're clumsy entertainers, yet very intelligent and curious. They are loving and love attention, getting along with almost everyone and everything. They are extremely active and work hard to be the center of attention.


Due to their lack of coat your Sphynx will look to snuggle with you or your closest heat source (like the nearest electric heater). Hairlessness also makes them more prone to oil absorption for which frequent baths (optimally once a week) and ear cleaning are a must.


Sphynxes normally pose no threat to people with allergies. However, this is completely incumbent upon the severity of the individual. They must not be left outdoors unattended since they are prone to sun stroke.


The Sphynx does not really have any serious genetic problems with the exception of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Other than that, the young ones must be kept with extreme care for they can get respiratory infections due to their lack of fur.


To put it simply they're great, if you want to find out more about Sphinx's or possibly purchase one of your own (which I recommend) click the picture above.