Facts About Sphynx Cats
The Sphynx, also known as the Canadian Sphynx, is a startling sight. Sphynxes resemble bald Siamese cats. They are intelligent and trainable but need special care because they lack the natural protection of fur.
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Identification
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Sphynx cats have a long, lean body with large ears. They may be completely bald or have some short fur that feels like velvet. They often do not have whiskers, according to “ASPCA Complete Guide to Cats.”
Colors
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Sphynx cats come in any color, including Siamese point patterns. Since they have little to no fur, their skin contains the coloration. Their eyes can be any color, including yellow, green and blue.
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History
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Hairlessness is a natural genetic mutation that occurs rarely in cats. The modern Sphynx descends from a normal-furred cat named Jezebel that lived in the early 1970s in Minnesota. According to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, other Sphynx lines come from hairless cats found in Toronto in the 1960s.
Fun Fact
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The most famous Sphynx cat was Ted Nude-gent, who played Mr. Bigglesworth in the highly successful Austin Powers movie trilogy. He sired three kittens that also appeared as Baby Bigglesworth.
Health Problems
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Hairless cats sunburn and chill easily and so must live indoors. They may need to wear cat clothes in the winter. They need to be bathed about once a week or their skin gets very greasy.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit the canadian sphynx image by Indigo Fish from Fotolia.com
