Also called Canadian Hairless, Moonstone (early name)
Recognised breedDeep profile
From Canada. The breed started with a hairless kitten born in Toronto, Ontario in 1966; later hairless cats from Minnesota (USA) and Toronto formed the base of today's lines.1234
GCCF gives females 6-8 lb and males 8-11 lb; TICA gives females 7-10 lb and males 8-12 lb (about 2.7-5.4 kg overall). Purina UK gives 2.5-5.5 kg for the breed. Feels heavier than it looks for its medium frame.
hairless-looking skin with a fine down (chamois or suede feel)
The Sphynx looks bare but usually carries a very fine, short down that makes the skin feel like warm suede or a peach. A little short hair may show on the bridge of the nose, the backs of the ears, the feet and the tail tip. Wrinkles, especially on the head, muzzle and shoulders, are prized. The body is medium sized, solid and muscular with a broad, rounded chest and a full belly, a slim tapering tail, very large wide-based ears, big lemon-shaped eyes and noticeably long toes. Whiskers can be full, short or missing.62341
Coloursall colours and patterns acceptedsolidtabbytortoiseshellbicolour and particolourpointedminksepia3426
Personality what they are like
A bold, outgoing extrovert that wants to be part of everything its people do. Sphynx cats tend to follow their owners from room to room, chatter away, meet guests at the door and settle against a warm body whenever they can, which is why fans call them velcro lap cats. They are bright, inquisitive and a bit of a show-off, and usually mix well with children, dogs and other cats.24371
Daily activity how busy a day looks
High. They love to climb, jump and play, and young cats can be goofy and tireless. Offer interactive play, puzzle toys, climbing trees and perches; many learn to fetch and some open doors and cupboards with their nimble toes.475
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
More hands-on than a coated cat. The skin builds up natural oils, so regular baths with a gentle shampoo are part of routine care (TICA suggests every few months, other sources more often depending on the cat). Clean the ears weekly, wipe the eyes, trim the nails and check under them and in skin folds, and brush the teeth regularly. Keep them warm in cool weather and shielded from strong sun.423751
Home where they are happiest
An indoor home that stays comfortably warm, with cosy beds, blankets and sunny (but not scorching) resting spots, plus cat trees, perches and scratching posts. Not suited to being left outdoors unsupervised.7531
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, high-quality cat food fed in two or three measured meals a day. Sphynx cats burn a lot of energy staying warm and tend to have big appetites, so portions should follow the cat's body condition.45
Company who they like around
Very high. They dislike being alone for long and do best in homes where someone is around often, ideally with another cat (another Sphynx is a popular choice) for company and warmth.253
The story where it all began
In 1966 a domestic cat in Toronto, Ontario produced a hairless male kitten called Prune, the result of a natural gene change. That first line did not last, and early provisional recognition with CFA was withdrawn in 1971. The breed was rebuilt from two further finds: hairless barn kittens on a farm in Wadena, Minnesota in 1975-76, including the females Epidermis and Dermis, and three hairless strays picked up in Toronto in 1978 by breeder Shirley Smith. Two of the Toronto cats went to the Netherlands, where Dr Hugo Hernandez crossed them with a Devon Rex. Breeders widened the gene pool with Devon Rex, Cornish Rex and American Shorthair outcrosses, and early names such as Moonstone and Canadian Hairless gave way to Sphynx. CFA accepted the breed for registration in 1998 and for championship in 2002.12345
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
The two Minnesota foundation cats were playfully named Epidermis and Dermis.2
2
The name is a nod to the ancient Sphinx statue of Egypt.4
3
A Sphynx named Ted NudeGent played Mr. Bigglesworth in the Austin Powers films.7
4
Many Sphynx like to ride on their owner's shoulders, a bit like a parrot.4
5
Its lack of coat comes from a variant of the KRT71 gene, a different gene route from the Russian hairless breeds such as the Donskoy and Peterbald.1
6
Because they love warmth, they often seek out computer monitors, sunny windowsills and the space under your blankets.4
7
Its outgoing, gentle nature has made it a popular choice as a therapy cat.4
I greeted the day by burrowing under the covers for a warm snuggle. When my human got up, I followed her everywhere, chattering about my dreams. I showed off my fetching skills with a crumpled paper ball, then climbed onto the highest shelf to supervise. After a bath (which I tolerate with dignity), I found a sunny spot and sprawled out like a starfish. This evening, I'm performing acrobatics on the cat tree while my human watches TV. Life is good when you're the center of attention.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
CFA
Registered from 1998, Championship status from 20022
TICA
Fully recognised; TICA says it has recognised the breed for over 40 years4
FIFe
Fully recognised, Category 4, code SPH; standard gives recognition in 20026
A typical home-care rhythm for a Sphynx. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BathSkin oils build up without fur to absorb themevery 2 weeks
Ear checkClean waxy ears gentlyevery week
Nail trimevery 3 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
Litter scoopevery day
Litter changeevery week
PlayAbout 40 minutes of play a dayevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 11every year
Treats they will love homemade and simple
Sphynx tip
Sphynx cats have a high metabolism and big appetite, so use treats sparingly and weigh them as part of their daily calorie allowance to avoid obesity. Because they are prone to sensitive stomachs, choose single-protein, limited-ingredient treats and introduce any new one slowly.
These crunchy biscuits are made with simple ingredients and are a healthier alternative to many shop-bought treats, helping to manage weight when given in moderation.
You need
1 tin of tuna in water (undrained)
1 egg, beaten
250g plain flour (can be gluten-free)
Extra water as needed
How
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blend the tuna until smooth using a food processor or hand blender.
In a large bowl, combine the blended tuna and beaten egg.
Add the flour and mix thoroughly to form a dough. If too dry, add a little water.
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
Cut out small biscuits using small biscuit cutters and place on the lined tray.
Bake for 20 minutes or until crunchy.
Allow to cool completely before storing.
How much: Treats should be given in moderation, not exceeding 10% of daily food allowance. Reduce main meals accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Sphynx, and at what times?
Feed your Sphynx two or three measured meals a day. They have big appetites because they burn a lot of energy staying warm, so adjust portions based on body condition. Your vet can help you set the right schedule and amounts.45
What should a Sphynx eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, high-quality cat food is best. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, chives, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for a safe diet.458
Does a Sphynx need baths?
Yes, regular baths with a gentle shampoo are important because their skin builds up oils. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every two weeks, but frequency can vary. Ask your vet or breeder what works best for your cat.423751Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Sphynx need brushing?
Brushing isn't needed since the Sphynx has little to no hair. Instead, focus on regular baths, ear cleaning, and nail trimming. Your vet can advise on skin care routines.423751
How do I trim a Sphynx's claws, and how often?
Trim your Sphynx's nails every few weeks; Furry Diary's starting plan suggests every 21 days. Use a cat nail trimmer and cut only the tip. If your cat is new to it, do just a couple of claws per session. Ask your vet for a demonstration.4237519Pet Wiki plan
How much play does a Sphynx need?
Sphynx cats have high energy and need daily play. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests about 40 minutes of interactive play each day, plus climbing trees and puzzle toys. They love to fetch and explore.475Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Sphynx's teeth and ears?
Clean your Sphynx's ears weekly with a gentle vet-recommended cleaner. Brush their teeth daily if possible; Furry Diary's plan suggests every two days. Also wipe their eyes as needed. Your vet can show you the best technique.423751Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Sphynx live?
A Sphynx typically lives between 7 and 15 years. With good care, many enjoy a long, healthy life. Regular vet check-ups help them stay well.4753
Is a Sphynx good with children and other pets?
Yes, Sphynx cats are usually good with children, dogs, and other cats. They are outgoing and sociable, often enjoying the company of other pets. Always supervise early introductions.243715
Can a Sphynx be left alone?
Sphynx cats dislike being alone for long periods. They thrive with company, so consider having another pet or someone home often. If left alone, provide plenty of toys and enrichment.253
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Donskoy
Peterbald
Devon Rex
Cornish Rex
Bambino