Sphynx

Key Visual Markers

• Hairless body covered in fine peach-fuzz down — skin feels warm and soft like chamois leather or suede
• Wedge-shaped head with prominent cheekbones and a visible whisker break
• Oversized, wide-set ears with rounded tips, set high on the head — described as "bat-like" in the CFA standard
• Large, lemon-shaped eyes set at a slight slant, giving the face a curious, alert expression
• Thick paw pads — noticeably heavier than other breeds, making the cat look like it is walking on cushions
• Skin wrinkled on the forehead, around the shoulders, and at the base of the ears

Temperament & Traits

• Intensely people-oriented — follows owners around the house, sleeps under the covers, greets at the door
• Highly energetic and playful — climbs, jumps, and invents games; needs interactive toys and cat trees
• Dog-like loyalty — learns tricks, walks on a leash, and comes when called
• Warmth-seeking — drawn to heat sources, sunny spots, blankets, and human laps
• Social with strangers, children, and other pets — rarely shy or skittish
• Vocal but not noisy — communicates with chirps, trills, and meows to express needs and moods

Health Notes

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) — Sphynx cats have one of the highest HCM rates among all breeds (estimated 14–40%); regular echocardiogram screening recommended by veterinary cardiologists
• Congenital myasthenic syndrome (CMS) — a genetic neuromuscular disorder causing generalized muscle weakness, head-bobbing, and easy fatigue in kittens; DNA test available through UC Davis VGL
• Urticaria pigmentosa — a skin condition causing raised, crusty lesions from mast cell accumulation under the skin; more common in Sphynx than any other breed
• Juvenile-onset periodontal disease — the lack of fur does not protect the mouth; Sphynx cats frequently develop gingivitis and tooth resorption by early adulthood
• Skin oil buildup and yeast infections — without fur to absorb oils, the skin requires weekly bathing to prevent greasy buildup, acne, and Malassezia yeast overgrowth
• Sun sensitivity and temperature intolerance — the absence of fur means Sphynx cats sunburn easily and cannot tolerate cold; strictly indoor lifestyle recommended

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a veterinarian for health advice specific to your cat.