Sphynx Cat: Breed Profile

Temperament and personality

Sphynx cats are outgoing, clownish and very affectionate. They seek out warmth — your lap, your bed, under the covers — and love attention from everyone, including visitors. Many are described as dog-like.

They do not like being left alone for long and do best with another pet or a family that is home often.

Size and appearance

Appears hairless, though most have a fine peach-fuzz. Wrinkled skin, large ears, lemon-shaped eyes and a warm, soft feel. The skin shows the color and pattern the coat would have had.

Activity and enrichment

Active and playful. They need interactive play and warm resting spots; a heated bed is appreciated.

Coat care and grooming

Surprisingly demanding. Without fur to absorb skin oils, Sphynx cats need a bath roughly weekly to biweekly, plus regular ear cleaning and nail-bed cleaning. They are indoor-only: they burn in the sun and get cold easily.

Typical health concerns

Every cat is an individual, and most cats of any breed live long, healthy lives with good preventive care. These are the conditions most often discussed for this breed — ask a breeder for health-testing results and discuss screening with your vet.

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — common in the breed; regular heart screening is recommended.
• Skin problems: oily build-up, acne, sunburn and sensitivity to cold.
• Dental disease.
• Hereditary myopathy (shared with the Devon Rex) — DNA test available.

Who is the Sphynx right for?

Featured in: The Most Affectionate Cat Breeds, Low-Shedding Cat Breeds.