The Sphynx

The sphynx is a rarity in the cat world and even the animal world. It’s a naturally hairless cat. The origin of the first sphynx kitten can be traced back to a natural mutation that happened way back in the 60s With its distinctive ears and eyes, the sphynx is one cat that simply stands out among all the long haired and short haired members of the breed.

It is not unusual to see cats of this breed sometimes sport a fine downy coat – giving their coat the distinctive appearance of suede.

In cold weather, don’t forget to give the sphynx in your home special care. Warm bedding and access to a fireplace are absolute essentials for this breed. Remember, your cat would feel just as cold as you do because they don’t have even a short fur coat.

Cats in this breed love being the centre of attention. Therefore, much of their behaviour is vitally influenced by how you react to their antics and attention grabbing gimmicks.

Sphynx are difficult to find and are often prized by their owners as a rare treasure. They are sweet natured, lively and intelligent.

With a head that’s slightly longer, prominent cheekbones, rounded skull, straight nose and large, lemon shaped eyes, they are endearing. The sphynx lack whiskers and if present, they are short and sparse.

Their legs are slightly longer than the front and they have lovely oval paws are oval with thick cushiony paw pads.

All colours and patterns in any combination are accepted. However, colours or patterns decided by the hair colour on a single shaft of hair e.g. cameo, smoke, chinchilla, ticked or otherwise tipped hair shaft are not acceptable. White lockets, buttons, or belly spots are accepted.

Wrinkled skin around the muzzle, between the ears, and around the shoulders is preferred. There are usually no whiskers but if whiskers are present they are short and sparse. A long, slender whip like tail and short, fine hair on the feet, edges of the ears and tail are acceptable.

However, kinked tail, aggressive behaviour, delicate or frail appearance, thin abdomen, rump or narrow chest, bowed front legs, presence of a short fur coat are all disqualifications.