Sphynx FAQs...
What are the
characteristics of the Sphynx cat?
HAIRLESSNESS!!!
The most obvious and unique feature of the Sphynx is that it is
hairless. Also, Sphynx have large eyes and ears. Don't forget to check out our
picture gallery to get a look at these characteristics!
Do Sphynx cats
need more maintenance than other breeds?
It depends on how you look
at it. They do not need to be brushed and you will not have to pick hair off
your cloths BUT Sphynx need baths – how frequently depends on the individual cat
– usually it is every 10 days. The natural oils that make a furry cat soft and
shiny come to the surface and collect on a hairless cat's skin. I recommend an
anti-bacterial, anti-fungal shampoo from your vet to thoroughly cleanse the skin
once per week.
Another thing that is a unique to the Sphynx is that they require ear cleanings. This can be done with a moist cotton swab on the outer ear only. This usually needs to be done once a week, but can vary depending on the cat.
Will I be
allergic to Sphynx cats?
Probably, but I am allergic
to cats and can tolerate the Sphynx breed. Some people who are extremely
allergic and/or asthmatic are not able to tolerate them. A person who is
allergic should never let the cat sleep or have access to their bedroom and
should invest in a powerful "Living Air" purifier for their home. I recommend
one for their bedroom also. If you
have further questions about this topic – please contact me!!
What kind of
personality does the Sphynx have?
I am prejudiced, but this
breed is by far among the friendliest, playfully active, curious, and personable
breed of cat. They want to be where there are people all the time. They meet you
at the door when you come home and prefer to spend lots of their time with you
either playing or sleeping on your lap. If
you research this cat at all – you will see that many say that Sphynx are part
dog and part monkey!
Do males or
females make the best pet?
Please do NOT be afraid to
adopt a male kitten. The majority of neutered males DO NOT spray, especially if
they are altered early as your Sphynx will be. We had a male breeder named
Hershey for two years, we then neutered him. He is a wonderful pet. He
doesn't ever spray, since neutering, and he is more affectionate then our
un-spayed females.
What is the
price for a Sphynx Cat?
Generally, prices range
from $800 to $1200 for pets. Prices vary from breeder to breeder and also
depending on the amount of hair. Naturally, the more hair, the less expensive
and the balder the cat, the more expensive. Pet Sphynx should be altered before
they are adopted out to pet homes.
Breeder cats, only sold to homes with
an interview, references, extensive knowledge of breeding and showing; and a
waiting period and a contract, are sold for $2000-$3000. Again, the more
expensive ones are usually balder.
Why are they so
expensive?
Sphynx are still a rare
breed. Their rarity and special care make them more expensive than even other
pure-bred cats.
Do Sphynx cats
have more health problems then other breeds?
NO!!! If you buy a sphynx
from a reputable breeder, it should be as healthy as any other cat. As with all
kittens, their immune systems are still developing up until they are six months
old. They do have a tendency to catch a cold… but once that pass that initial
cold as a kitten– they are usually very healthy.
They
absolutely should not be outside but for short periods of time. Their lack of
hair makes them more prone to skin problems… you do not want to have your cat
sunburned!
Do
special precautions have to be taken to keep them warmer, since they have no
fur?
All cats like to be warm, but, I spoil mine. Generally if you are comfortable in
your home it is most likely ok for your cats. As long as you provide something
as inexpensive as an old comforter for them to curl up in they are fine.
However, if you have a waterbed, rest assured that is where they will prefer to
sleep. As I said I spoil my cats, and have cat beds with heating pads in them,
but, this is not necessary.
Do you
guarantee their health?
Yes, I guarantee their health. But, you must immediately contact me with any
health problems. It is imperative that you call me because I want to help any
way possible with any health related issues and with my experience, I may know
some remedies to your problem. Sometimes the breeders of rare animals know
better what to do than the vet as many vets are still not familiar with this
breed. As with any animal certain illnesses need medical attention right away. I
recommend medical attention for colds, diarrhea, or anything that seems out of
the ordinary. Please take your cat/kitten to the vet immediately if he is has
not eaten for an extended period of time. Cats, because of their survival
instinct, will hide their sicknesses, if your cat is not eating she MUST go to
the vet immediately. Cats, and especially kittens, cannot survive as long as
humans without eating.
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