One of the most striking cat breeds, Sphynx cats are warm, affectionate, and inquisitive cats. Where did these cats come from? Are they a good choice for people allergic to cats?

Read on to learn 4 things you didn't know about sphynx cats.

They are an all-Canadian breed.

In 1966, a hairless kitten was born to a black-and-white mother cat in Ontario, Canada. Her owners lovingly nicknamed her “Prune” because of her wrinkly skin. When she was bred with other cats, she produced both kittens with hair and kittens without it. These hairless cats were first called “Canadian Hairless Cats.” Some people started calling them “Sphynx cats” because of their resemblance to an ancient Egyptian cat sculpture, the Sphinx. 

In the late 1970s, several hairless cats were born in Minnesota and Toronto. These cats were bred with Devon Rex cats (another breed with little hair), and they became the founders of the Sphynx breed.

They're actually not hypoallergenic.

Contrary to popular opinion, Sphynx cats are not hypoallergenic. Their bodies still produce Fel d1, the protein in cat body fluids and saliva that triggers allergies. If a person is only mildly allergic to cats, Sphynx kitties might be okay for them. They will just need to bathe their pets more often. But severely allergic cat lovers should not choose this breed.

Our sympathies to cat lovers who are allergic and were hoping for a new best friend!

They are a high-maintenance breed.

You would think that a hairless cat would need very little grooming. But, in fact, Sphynxes need extra grooming. For most cats, hair absorbs the body oils that are produced on a regular basis. Because Sphynx cats have no hair, they need a weekly bath to avoid looking greasy. In addition, their owners have to wipe down their ears with a cotton ball or washcloth to prevent buildup. 

Looking for an outside cat house? Get free shipping at UnderCover Pet Houses! 

They have very fast metabolisms...

Which means that they can eat a lot and not gain any weight! (We're not jealous or anything.) Because they are hairless, Sphynx cats have to burn more calories in order to stay warm. They also have an average body temperature that is 4 degrees higher than that of other cats. This helps compensate for their lack of insulating fur. Ask your vet how many calories your Sphynx cat will need to eat every day. If you notice your cat losing weight, increase their daily calories.

LET'S CHAT:

Have you ever met a Sphynx cat or owned one? What was your favourite thing about them?

Ready to get a winter cat shelter? Find the perfect one at www.undercoverpethouses.com today!