September is all about the Sphynx Cat!

September is all about the Sphynx Cat! 


We typically see a Sphynx cat and have either an immediate fascination or ick reaction. The Sphynx is an interesting breed, and we’re here to help you learn more about it — and debunk the idea that Sphynx cats are allergy-free. Rock The Cat Spa has been lucky enough to have a few Sphynx stay here, and we’ve learned about them firsthand. 

Throughout history, there has been mention of hairless cats, but there wasn’t always much interest. The “Austin Powers” movie series and its character Mr. Bigglesworth helped popularize the hairless Sphynx in the late ’90s. In Ontario, Canada, in 1966, a hairless kitten was born amidst a litter of domestic shorthairs as a result of a random genetic mutation. The rest is, well, history.   Most of the Sphynx cats we know today all descend from five cats, according to Purina: two from Minnesota in 1975, and three from Toronto in 1978!

The number one question regarding this breed is, “How and why are they hairless?” It’s pretty simple and boils down to the aforementioned genetic mutation. A gene called Keratin 71, or KRT71, weakens the hair root so it is unable to stay in the skin (KRT71 affects other animals with fur mutations as well). That said, not all Sphynx cats are completely hairless. Some have “peach fuzz,” patches of fur, and/or little whiskers on their bodies. Their facial whiskers can be present, broken, or completely missing also. A Sphynx’s skin will still resemble whatever fur coat they would have had, so you will see all sorts of different colorings and markings. We’ve seen one that was dark gray with lighter patches, one with pale peach-colored skin, and one that was light gray and had broken white whiskers. This unique trait is a great talking point! 

Because Sphynx cats have no hair, they are commonly believed to be hypoallergenic. This is true if someone is only allergic to cat hair, not if they are allergic to cat dander. There is a protein in cats’ saliva called Fel d 1, and when a cat licks itself, this protein is spread across its body. Since Sphynx cats still bathe themselves and sweat, the protein will be on their skin, and those allergic to cat dander will be affected.

With their lack of hair, Sphynx cats will need to be bathed often. Catster recommends every three to four weeks, but here at Rock The Cat Spa, our guests have requested that they be washed or wiped down every two to three days to reduce and eliminate “greasy” buildup. The cat’s lack of fur can contribute to an overbuild of skin oils and ear wax.

Healthwise, these cats will live an average of 8-14 years and are prone to some health problems. Heart issues and hereditary myopathy have been reported. Sunburn and/or skin cancer can also occur, so keeping your Sphynx indoors is crucial. 

This breed is not for everyone, as they tend to act doglike and needy. Some of that may stem from being cold and wanting to cuddle for body heat. Sphynx are quite extroverted (we can confirm this!) and curious. Research this breed before adopting, as they can be quite demanding. Make sure your lifestyle and personality can keep up with a Sphynx!

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