Sphynx Cat Care 101: What to Expect When You Bring One Home?

Sphynx cats, a hairless breed resulting from a genetic mutation since the 1960s, have gained continued popularity today. This is partly due to their appearance in shows like F.R.I.E.N.D.S., where Rachel buys a Sphynx, as well as their celebrity admirers such as Demi Lovato, Lena Dunham, and Kat Von D, who proudly own Sphynxes. Additionally, their attractive appearance often garners attention on Instagram, contributing to their widespread appeal.

These cats need extra attention and care, even though they are well-known for their charming personality and cute appearance. Compared to many of their furry cousins, they are a far more demanding pet despite being hairless.

Here are some things to consider if you want to get a Sphynx for your home.

1. Social beings

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One of the friendliest and most social cat breeds available is the Sphynx. But, before you decide to bring home a sphynx kitten, it's crucial to know that they are also extremely vocal in addition to being very social. Being one of the most outgoing breeds of cats, sphynx kittens might be a good fit for some people. But, anyone looking for a calm, independent type of cat shouldn't consider adopting a sphynx kitten.

2. Maintaining a healthy skin

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Maintaining a Sphynx cat's skin health requires careful attention and starts with their diet. Providing them with high-quality food is crucial as it directly impacts oil production on their skin. A nutritious diet results in less oil production, whereas lower-quality food can lead to the accumulation of oils, causing ongoing skin issues and potential ear infections. Due to their lack of fur, Sphynx cats naturally leave grease spots on surfaces they frequent. Their oily skin can seep into couch cushions or bed sheets, leaving stains behind.

3. Regular Cleaning

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A Sphynx cat's general greasiness can be managed with nutrition, but they will occasionally require baths to get rid of accumulated dirt and grime. Opt for mild cat shampoos that are free of soap and composed of organic components like aloe, oats, and coconut oil. To keep your cat comfortable and their skin healthy, dry them off with a warm towel as soon as bath time is over. Stay away from bathing a Sphynx too frequently as it will cause its skin to become dry.

Regular at-home care for a sphynx cat will involve giving them a thorough washing regularly and making sure that any problem areas, such as their paws and ears, are free of dirt and wax.

4. Health issues

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Sphynx cats, like many other purebred cats, are susceptible to genetic health issues. Doctors note that hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a disorder in which the heart muscle thickens excessively, is a problem that the Sphynx cat breed is susceptible to. Get your Sphynx cat checked for any heart issues regularly. These problems will grow more common as your sphynx cat gets older, and prompt diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. Regular dental care is essential for Sphynx cats since they frequently have teeth and oral health issues.

Proactive dental care may be necessary, which can be expensive, but regular dental care from your kitten's veterinarian will assist in avoiding more issues later on. Because Sphynx cats lack fur, it's important to note that you may not be familiar with common signs of certain illnesses in them. Regular care of your Sphynx kitten will demand your vigilance.

5. Protection from sun and weather changes

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Sphynx cats, known for their hairless coats, require special attention to their environment due to their susceptibility to both sunlight and cold weather. Firstly, it's important to remember that Sphynx cats shouldn't be allowed outdoors as they are vulnerable to sunburn. Keep them away from places where there could be direct sunlight.

If your cat starts panting, it may be overheated, and immediate action is necessary to cool it

down. Move your cat to a cool, shaded area equipped with an air conditioner or fan to facilitate relaxation and comfort. On the other hand, due to their lack of fur, Sphynx cats are more prone to feeling cold compared to their furry counterparts. According to veterinarians, if you're cold, your Sphynx cat is too. One effective method is providing soft fabric cat clothing, which offers warmth without causing skin irritation. However, it's essential to wash these garments frequently to prevent them from becoming soiled with the cat's natural skin oils.

6. They are not hypoallergenic

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Rethinking your adoption plans might be wise if you're considering a Sphynx cat because you believe they're the only breed that won't aggravate your allergies. While it's common to adopt these cats, many mistakenly assume they're hypoallergenic due to their lack of fur.

However, allergies in humans often stem from reactions to substances found on a cat's skin. It's worth noting that some individuals may be more allergic to hairless cats than to those with extensive fur.