Health

   The Sphynx is healthy breed with no known specific health or genetic problems. Prevention is the key to perfect health. Maintaining regular vet visits and up-to-date immunizations will ward off most illnesses that would affect any cat. In general, the breed is very hardy with a normal cat’s lifespan. Neutering or spaying and providing an outlet for play, and the natural behavior of scratching (e.g. scratching post), are essential elements for maintaining a healthy long life. Sphynx cats have been know to live fifteen years or longer.

Caring for your Sphynx

Bathing

   Because Sphynx cats do not have fur to absorb the natural oils from their skin they will require periodic bathing. The build up of oils in their coat will collect dirt and dust from their surroundings making them dirty. Depending on the amount of oils secreted from the cat, and the cleanliness of its surrounds, will determine the frequency of bathing. Some Sphynx need bathed more than once a week, while others only require monthly bathing. If you keep your cat’s surroundings clean and buy dust free litter you can help reduce the frequency of bathing.

   Bath time should be fun for cat and owner alike. Because bathing is a routine part of having a Sphynx, it should be introduced to kittens and made as stress free as possible. Run your bath water before bringing your Sphynx into the bathroom for a bath. Most Sphynx tolerate bathing well, but if your cat is stressed by the experience, make bath time as quick as possible and wash their face and ears after you take them out of the water. Avoid getting soap into your cat’s eyes or mouth. I prefer to use a baby bath with aloe and vitamin E to bath my cats. C

Claws & Paws

   Sphynx will get dirt between their pads and in the pockets of their claws. They can be clean out with a warm wash cloth or baby wipe. Cleaning of the paws will need to be done more often and in conjunction with their bath. T

   The claws (front and back) will need to be clipped. In most cats you can see the vein line inside the claw and you must be very careful not to clip on or beyond it. Begin by clipping off just the tip of the claw until you are confident on how to clip.

Ears

  Sphynx’s ears are hairless and produce a large amount of earwax. They will need cleaned in conjunction with bath time or about every one to two weeks. A couple drops of ear cleaner in the cat’s ears will make your cat shake its head and dislodge the earwax so that it can be easily removed with a cotton ball or Q-tip. Be very careful when cleaning their ears, and clean only as far in as you can see.

Feeding

   You must provide your Sphynx with a constant, always accessible, supply of premium cat food and water.

Climate

   Of course the Sphynx is an indoor cat only. The general rule of thumb is...if you are comfortable they usually are too. However, if they get a chill, they are cleaver enough to find a warm spot under a blanket or curled up with another pet.