Sphynx

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs vigorous daily play — wand toys and climbing space are gold.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing a few times a week keeps the coat mat-free.

• Living spaceApartment-friendly

  Perfectly happy indoors — add vertical space to climb.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment9–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy · Skin conditions · Dental issues

The Sphynx is famously 'hairless' — really covered in a fine suede-like down — and its outgoing, clownish, attention-demanding personality is as distinctive as its looks. This is a warm, cuddly extrovert that seeks out laps, shoulders and duvets, partly for company and partly because without a coat it is always looking for heat. It should live strictly indoors, kept warm, with sunny spots and often a sweater in winter. Hairless does not mean low-maintenance. Skin oils that a coat would normally absorb build up instead, so a Sphynx needs a weekly bath, regular ear cleaning (they produce a lot of wax) and nail-fold cleaning, plus sun protection near windows and no exposure to cold. They have big appetites to fuel their fast metabolism. The breed's most serious health concern is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which is common enough that yearly cardiac ultrasound screening is strongly advised; they are also prone to skin conditions, dental disease and, as kittens, respiratory infections. Buy from a breeder who echocardiogram-screens their cats and keep up dental and heart checks throughout life.

• How much play does a Sphynx need?

  High. Needs vigorous daily play — wand toys and climbing space are gold.

• How much grooming does a Sphynx need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing a few times a week keeps the coat mat-free.

• Is a Sphynx suited to apartment living?

  Apartment-friendly. Perfectly happy indoors — add vertical space to climb.

• Is a Sphynx a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Sphynx live?

  9–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Sphynx?

  Keep an eye out for Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Skin conditions, Dental issues. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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