Sphynx adult in black and white on a white background

Sphynx

Despite being almost entirely hairless, the Sphynx cat still needs plenty of grooming.

About the Sphynx

The term “velcro lap cat” has been used to describe the desire of the Sphynx to be on their owner all the time. The Sphynx is sweet-tempered, lively, intelligent and above all happy to be handled.

Sphynx love to greet every new person visiting the home, and will get along well with dogs and other pets. Sphynx are highly active and will entertain themselves for hours, many even fetching toys. These cats are loyal and dedicated to their owners.

Source: key facts and characteristics sourced from World Cat Congress (WCC)

Breed specifics

Coat
Short coat
Size category
Medium
Avg life expectancy
15–20 years

Affectionate / Even-tempered / Lively / Intelligent / Sociable / Quiet

Key facts

  • Needs a lot of grooming
  • Patient with children and other animals
  • Best suited to indoor life

Health condition

Sphynx cats’ main feature is the absence of a fur coat. And even though they are not entirely hairless, their fine, downy hair expose their delicate skin to harmful ultraviolet light and make skin injury much more likely. Sphynx skin may be prone to yeast infections and obviously they are susceptible to cold and to sunburn if they go outside. We advise you to buy from a responsible breeder and to seek counsels from your veterinarian.

Health checklist illustration