The Sphynx is very people-oriented and affectionate. They are highly intelligent, playful, cuddly and lovable. Once you've experienced companionship with a Sphynx, other cats will pale in comparison. People have commented that after they've had a Sphynx cat, they'll never have another hairy cat. Just think no more hair on your furniture, clothes, or on your carpet. No more hair tickling your nose. All those problems go away.

The Sphynx is firm and muscular with a broad chest and slim neck. They may be long and lanky, or may have a more rounded body. Their skin may feel like velvet, or chamois depending on the degree of hair on their body. Large ears are a desirable trait along with a face that is lean and rather pointed through the muzzle. It should resemble a skull with skin.

A little hair may be visible behind the ears and/or on the testicles of a male. A small tuft of hair at the end of the tail, and short hair behind the ears, is acceptable in the Sphynx breed for show.

Kittens are born with wrinkled skin and adults hopefully will retain as many wrinkles as possible. Wrinkles help to insulate the cat from cold, but they still require warm places to live. They are obviously not to be exposed to less than what would make a human comfortable. Sphynx cats are very warm to the touch. They enjoy crawling under the covers with you at night where they feel like a little furnace. You've heard of it being so cold it's a two dog night. It may take a little more than two Sphynx, but you'll stay warm.

People with mild allergies to cats may be able to tolerate Sphynx cats, however, consult your Doctor, before committing to adopting a Sphynx, to avoid having to give it up after becoming attached to it.

These cats need baths because they secrete oil that attracts dirt and the oil itself needs to be washed off. A mild shampoo can be used with either a wash cloth, or they can be put into a sink if they accept it readily. This can vary depending on the cat, but most tolerate baths well, especially if it becomes a routine. The frequency of bathing necessary will depend on the cat. Some will need it frequently and others infrequently. Since Sphynx have no hair inside their ears to filter dirt, ear cleaning is necessary to remove the wax and dirt. This is done with a solution available at pet stores. After applying the solution, massage the ear to loosen the wax. Use cotton swabs and cotton balls to finish cleaning the ear. Since their ear canal takes a sharp turn before it gets to the ear drum, you don't have to worry about damaging the ear drum. Check with your Vet for the proper way to clean the ears.

Sphynx are intelligent enough to be trained. They can be taught to fetch and with enough patience, taught to walk with a leash. The trouble with cats is they're smart enough to be taught, but too smart to oblige at our whim.

The history of the Sphynx breed seems to differ somewhat from one article to another, so I won't cover that. There are enough articles out there for research to come to your own conclusion. The one thing I am certain of is that they have nothing to do with the Egyptian Sphynx during the time of the Pharaohs, although some people may have that misconception.

Sphynx are recognized as a breed by CFA and TICA since 1985.

We are a CFA and TICA registered name cattery.

Judy and Herb Wager

Littleton, Colorado

303-717-4587 JUDY CELL

303-523-3621 HERB CELL

303-794-2961 HOME