Hairless cats have been known for generations; the Aztecs are said to have kept hairless cats! Curious about hairless cat breeds? Let’s explore the Sphynx cat breed!
The Sphynx cat is the first hairless cat breed that has been bred specifically for that trait. They display a high level of energy, intelligence, curiosity, and affection for their owners! ❤️
Hairless Cat History
The Mexican Hairless cat, Aztec cat or New Mexican Hairless was a purported breed of cat first documented in 1902 by Mr. E. J. Shinick who owned a pair of hairless cats. The cats were novelties at this time because of their lack of a coat (fur), although they grew light fur along the back and tail in winter. These cats also had long whiskers and eyebrows. Because they had no coat, they lost more body heat than coated cats. This made them warm to the touch as well as heat-seeking. They are well documented in media reports in the early 20th Century.
Hairlessness is a trait which has occurred in several places at different times. Hairless cats have been reported from Latin America in 1830.
The Canadian Sphynx breed was started in 1966 in Toronto.
Did You Know? Sphynx Cat Facts
There are new hairless breeds, including the Don Sphynx and the Peterbald from Russia, which arose from their own spontaneous gene mutations.
Although hairless cats have been reported throughout history, breeders in Europe have been working on the Sphynx breed since the early 1960s.
Sphynx are not always totally hairless and there are different degrees of “hairlessness.” There can be a fine down on the body which makes the cat feel like a warm peach.
Sphynx Cat Care
Though Sphynx cats lack a coat to shed or groom, they are not maintenance-free. Body oils, which would normally be absorbed by the hair, tend to build up on the skin.
Regular bathing is usually necessary weekly.
Owners must pay meticulous attention to keeping the Sphynx cat’s skin clean and supple. The skin needs to be bathed or sponged every week to remove its oily secretions. The oily secretions must also be cleaned from the outer ear on a regular basis to prevent ear infections.
Sphynx Cat Health
Because they have no coat, they lose more body heat than coated cats. This makes them warm to the touch and causes them to seek out sources of heat.
Don’t they get cold?
If it is too cold for you, then it will probably be too cold for a hairless cat. However, these cats are smart enough to find a warm spot in the house, curled up with a dog or cat or warm human, on top of your computer, or they will be snuggled under your bed covers.
In general, Sphynx cats should never be allowed outdoors unattended, as they have limited means to conserve body heat when it is cold.
Via Wikipedia Source 1, Source 2, The Cat Fanciers’ Association, Purina, AprioriNaked.
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