Sphynx Cats: Unexpectedly Affectionate and Snuggly

In the feline world, baldness doesn't always equate to beauty — unless it's a Sphynx. These unique, hairless cats are some of the most distinctive in the animal kingdom. Some, like a Sphynx named Xherdan, might appear unusual (see Xherdan below). Others, such as Ted Nude-Gent, who portrayed Mr. Bigglesworth in the Austin Powers films, have achieved celebrity status.

Though Sphynx cats might seem a bit eerie to some (often compared to naked mole rats), their looks are deceiving. These cats are incredibly affectionate and love to cuddle. Contrary to popular belief, they aren't slimy to the touch. In fact, their bodies are about 4 degrees warmer than most cats. They also aren't completely hairless, sporting a soft layer of downy fuzz reminiscent of a suede jacket or the delicate fuzz on a peach.

Although the fine layer of fuzz might suggest these cats are hypoallergenic, they are not. Sphynx cats still produce dander, though in lesser amounts compared to most other feline breeds.

Despite their otherworldly look (imagine E.T. with a tail), Sphynx cats are incredibly affectionate and loving, often more so than many aloof tabbies. "These cats have higher social needs than other breeds," says Maria Trimarchi, an Oregon resident who shares her home with two Sphynx cats, Oliver and Sweet Lime. "They are deeply people-oriented, craving human interaction and always wanting to be by your side."

History of the Sphynx

Despite being named after the iconic Egyptian monument, the Sphynx cat has no historical ties to Egypt. While hairless cats have existed for centuries, the Sphynx breed originated in 1966 in Toronto, Canada, when a hairless kitten named Prune was born in a litter. Prune became the progenitor of the modern Sphynx breed.

Prune was a genetic anomaly, carrying a recessive gene that left him hairless. His owners bred him with other hairless cats, leading to litters that included both bald and fully furred kittens. This breeding effort was a success, and soon, enthusiasts began selectively breeding hairless cats for specific traits. Initially known as the Canadian Hairless Cat, the breed later adopted the name Sphynx.

The Sphynx breed was officially recognized by the Cat Fanciers' Association in 2002, with other cat organizations soon following suit.

Cats, much like the Faceless Men from "Game of Thrones," come in a variety of striking appearances. The Angora, for instance, resembles a fluffy snowball with a face that looks like it took a punch from Muhammad Ali, while the sleek Siamese could rival Freddy Krueger in speed. However, the Sphynx stands out as the most captivating. While their unusual look draws initial attention, their owners quickly discover their larger-than-life personalities.

"I adopted my first Sphynx in 2006," says April Arguin, a Florida resident. "While their hairless, unique appearance was the initial draw, it's their personality that truly captivates. They crave constant socialization, love to cuddle, and are fearless in new situations. They’re incredibly affectionate and demanding of attention."

Special Needs

Arguin, who runs LILNudists Cattery (a fitting name), acknowledges that Sphynx cats may not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer low-maintenance pets. They can be expensive, with adoption fees at LILNudists ranging from $1,800 to $2,500 per kitten. Their lack of fur means body oil isn’t absorbed, leading to buildup that attracts dirt and irritates their skin. Regular bathing, at least once a week, is essential. Trimarchi ensures she cleans her cats’ armpits, undercarriage, and ears with cotton balls to maintain their hygiene.

Sphynx cats require warmth to stay comfortable. Even in Florida, where the climate is warm, this can be an issue. Arguin has designed a clever cabinet with a mesh-covered hole and a heat lamp on top, allowing her cat, Stubbin, to stay warm when he feels chilly. The cabinet is so cozy that even her chihuahua sneaks in to enjoy the warmth.

In colder regions like Oregon, sweaters are a practical solution. "Each of my cats has a fleece sweater to wear when they feel cold," says Trimarchi. However, she also ensures they don’t spend too much time basking in direct sunlight. "They can get sunburned," she warns. This highlights another important point: Sphynx cats should stay indoors. If they do go outside, supervision is essential, and they should be brought inside during peak sun hours.