The Sphynx cat is the first hairless feline to be recognized as such. It is of Canadian origin. It is known that the genetic mutation that causes the lack of hair goes way back. Interestingly, Sphynx cats are not completely hairless. They actually have a very fine coat that can be perceived with a closer look.
Origins
The mutation that caused the birth of Prune, a hairless kitten that was born to Elizabeth, in Toronto, Canada, was accidental. Knowing that the kitten was unique, breeders attempted to cross him to reproduce him. During the 70s, this and other hairless kittens were crossed to establish litters of hairless kittens.
Since the gene causing the hairless condition is recessive, crossing them with another race, e.g. Devon Rex, some kittens in the litter will be hairy and others will be hairless.
Physical characteristics
Naturally, the most striking feature of Sphynx cats is the apparent lack of hair. However, Sphynx cats do have a very thin fur, not visible to the naked eye. They have a muscular body with a powerful neck. The ears are especially long with absence of hair on the inside but very soft in the outer base.
The color of the skin is the same his hair would have and he has all possible marks in a cat. Due to the lack of hair, these cats release heat more easily and are very warm to the touch. Usually, they can weigh from 3 to 6 kg.
Personality
These cats are usually extroverted. They are smart, curious, and very affectionate with their owners. They are also very energetic cats. Sphynx cats like to be the center of attention and despite their formal and imposing appearance, they will do anything to draw your attention and make you laugh. When he fails to get his owner’s attention, the Sphynx cat will go exploring the house, usually getting himself into every problem. He loves to find toys that challenge his athletics and brain.
Caring for a Sphynx cat
Despite lacking hair, a Sphynx cat needs as much care to his skin as any other cat with hair, or even more. You need to keep his skin moisturized and give at least one bath a week to avoid grease stains on your furniture. The fact that your cat will feel very warm to touch does not mean that he is not feeling cold. On the contrary, he feels that way to touch because he is losing heat easily. Help him stay warm by buying him a cute sweater for the cold season.
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