The Sphynx cat is a truly unique cat in the world. It is the first hairless breed to be accepted and what is certain is that it is both loved and hated by human society. Many professionals suggest that it comes from the Devon rex breed, with which it shares very similar characteristics.
They arose naturally throughout history because their lack of fur is the result of mutation, a common process in the evolution of any species. It was in Canada, in the 1960s, that it was decided to fix and maintain the characteristics of cats that did not appear to have fur.
Continue reading this article from PlanèteAnimal in which we tell you everything about the sphynx cat!
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Origin
- America
- Canada
FIFe Rating
- Category III
Physical Characteristics
- Thin tail
- Big ears
- Strong
Size
- Average
Average Weight
- 5-6
Life expectancy
- 10-15
Character
- Extrovert
- Affectionate
- Smart
- Curious
- Calm
Climate
- Hot
Origin of the sphynx cat
As for its origins, the sphynx cat owes its essential characteristic of not having fur to a dominant gene. In 1987, in Russia, it was Elena Kovalena who adopted the first specimen named Varvana and thanks to Mitu, the breed began to spread and received a warm welcome.
Characteristics of the sphynx cat
He is a medium sized, elongated and muscular cat. We notice the large ears that stand out on the naked body, which forms folds in several places. Although the Sphynx is considered a hairless cat, the reality is that its coat is very thin and short, so much so that it is not noticed. There are a number of color combinations that give rise to unique specimens.
If there's anything to highlight about this feline, it's its lack of coat. It should be noted, however, that there are four varieties of this breed and some of them have a light coat that barely reaches a few millimeters. The varieties of this breed are:
- Goma: these are completely hairless Donskoy cats.
- Flock: those covered with a millimetric coat that gives them a velvety appearance.
- Velour: Donskoy whose hair does not exceed 3 mm.
- Brush: with curly hair.
Sphynx cat character
The Sphynx cat, despite its serious and delicate appearance and its rigid gait, has a gentle and delicate character and you will see how comfortable it feels in contact with people and how sociable it will be with them.
Even if, like good felines, they appreciate their independence, human contact brings them the warmth that these hairless cats need to live a happy and problem-free life.The character of these sweet cats is much admired by their guardians and this is one of the reasons why Sphinx guardians swear by them.
Caring for a sphynx cat
Your Sphynx should live in a warm place. Remember that the coat is a protection against temperature changes and this particular breed has a hard time stabilizing. Pay attention to your Sphynx cat's temperature, especially in winter.
Hygiene is also important for this breed which tends to get dirty easily. He needs the help of his guardian to be clean and groomed and will need to be washed every 20 to 30 days. He also lacks eyelashes, which causes him to cry a lot. Clean him with saline and remove lint from his eyes daily. Its ears are very large and open, so they accumulate a lot of wax that must be cleaned frequently. Although this cat has no hair, it must be gently brushed from time to time.Consult your veterinarian for advice and to show you how to proceed.
Finally, to put an end to hygiene, we would like to emphasize the importance of cleaning its claws and the environment in which it is found. Due to the lack of hair, he tends to sweat excessively, causing him to quickly lose his protective fat layer and need to be taken care of.
In addition, the Sphynx also needs a proper diet. On the market, you will find kibble formulated for this unusual breed. They should also always have access to fresh, clean water.
It is obvious that these cats are less protected and more exposed than other cats with their large furs, so it is very important to take care of the details.
Sphynx cat he alth
Although it may seem delicate or fragile at first glance, the Sphynx is a robust and strong cat.To keep him in optimal he alth, you should take him to the vet regularly to make sure he is in good he alth and deworm him if necessary. It is also essential to respect the vaccination schedule for cats.
Here are some of the diseases that can affect your sphynx cat:
- Feline leukemia: it is infectious and contagious through blood or saliva. Hygiene and preventive vaccination can prevent this disease.
- Infectious peritonitis: Very contagious, present in the feces of the infected animal.
- Herpes virus: Affects the respiratory tract.
- Panleucopenia: serious and contagious infection that is also transmitted through faeces.
- Rage
- Chlamydiosis: upper respiratory tract disease. It causes conjunctivitis and rhinitis.
- Bordetellosis: also affects the upper respiratory tract. Highly undesirable in young cats.