| Country of Origin: | Canada |
| Colors: | All colors and patterns |
| Average Size: | weight: 8-10 lbs ( 3.6 – 4.5 kg) Length: Medium |
| Life Span: | 15-17 years |
| Coat: | Hairless |
| Personality: | Can perform acrobatic tricks, much like a monkey. |
| Characteristics: | Energy: Active Talkative: Little Kid Friendly: Yes Allergic: Yes |
For many people, the Sphynx cats miss the most attractive feature that all cats have, regardless of their pedigree – the fur. More or less hairless cats, as well as curly Rex Cat, have occurred from time to time in various parts of the world.
For the hairlessness of Sphynx cats is responsible their gene. However, the effect of the gene is not complete because the Sphynx is not completely hairless – still has a soft fluffy coat (like a peach). Very thin and very short hair is growing in their ears, muzzle, tail and feet.
Each hair follicle is a sebaceous gland, but there is no real hair to absorb, so Sphynx cats need daily rub of their suede leather to make their “fur” and the rest of the skin in top condition.
The first Sphynx cat – male named Prune – was born in 1966but his lineage died out. In 1978 in Toronto, Canada, was rescued a long-haired cat and her hairless kitten. Kitten “mutant” was sterilized so that he couldn’t transfer the deformation, but when the same cat brought to the world another offspring another hairless kitten was born.
Only TICA recognizes the Sphynx as a breed because many other organizations still fear that there could be potential health hazards associated with this cat. In Britain, the Sphynx cats are registered with the GCCF in order to ensure that the dominant gene for hairlessness will not go over to the Devonian Rex cats.
The effect of Devonian Rex Cat’s can be seen in the “fairy” face of Sphynx Cats with hugely big ears. Their bodies are rounded and muscular, with strong necks and firm legs. The colors and patterns of hair are visible on the rudimentary fur and skin. In cats for the exhibitions, “natural” lack of hair is vital, and every proof of intentional hair removal is severely punished.
These cats rely on their owners when it comes to additional physical protection as since there is no fur, they are very sensitive to cold and sunlight. These cats are also very committed and loyal, warm and soft, and very playful. Sphynx cats leave no one indifferent, and they either cause fascination or repulsion and are most certainly gaining on popularity worldwide.
