Because Sphynx don't have fur, the oils and dirt that normally would be pushed away from the skin onto the ends of the fur build up on the skin of a Sphynx and need to be washed away. Yes, this means that they need to be put into a bathtub and washed. Depending on genetics, hormones, amount of hair, and temperature, the need for a bath can range from once a week to once every other week. I use natural peppermint soap for my normal washings but any mild soap which rinses cleanly such as baby wash can be tried. Ears and toes will also need to be cleaned at this time as a brown/black residue builds up also do to the lack of hair. Their nails seem to grow much faster than other breeds and should also be clipped as part of the weekly/bi-weekly bath time process.
Sphynx cats are by no means fragile but they are strictly indoor cats. Not only can the sun burn their skin but also outside, without fur, they may be colder than you or I would. The way I equate it is this - if you and I were running around naked, what temperature would we be comfortable at? When I feel the need for a sweater or jacket then it is too cold for my cats.
One more thing to consider, although the metabolism of the Sphynx breed has never been studied, it does seem to run slightly higher than that of a "normal cat". What does this mean? 1) they require better quality food and more of it and 2) they tend to excrete more. It is important to choose a high quality food, keep plenty of it on hand, and clean litter boxes frequently. Multiple cats households should have at least one litterbox per cat. Auotmatic litterboxes have been used successfully to decrease the total number of boxes required.
If you are willing to bathe, clean ears, toes, clip nails once a week to once every other week, keep a strictly indoor cat, feed high quality food, and keep a litter box clean then a Sphynx might be for you. Knowing exactly what lays ahead of you is the first step. Finding a companion for the rest of their life is the next.
If you have question on the Care & Maintenance of a Sphynx please feel free to write. We are happy to answer question and help you ensure the health of your Sphynx friend!
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