Have you seen the Sphynx cat Mr. Bigglesworth in the Austin Powers movies and want to adopt one for yourself? There’s more than meets the eye with this hairless kitty. This breed is known for its intelligence and antics, not to mention its unusual appearance. Sphynx cats look a lot like any other cat, but being hairless they require extra care and attention. Sphynx breeders and rescue groups often want to sell or place these cats in households that already know how to handle their special needs, but here are three things to know before adopting your own hairless cat.
1) Sphynx cats need a regular bath. Because these cats don’t have hair to absorb their body’s natural oils, they need to be bathed or else they will get dirty and greasy. Your cat will need a bath about once a week, depending on how dirty he gets between baths. Hairless cats are not hypoallergenic, but due to regular bathing, they are easier to live with than a furry cat. Your cat may or may not enjoy these baths, so you will need to work with him to find the best way to clean him.
2) Sphynx cats are very intelligent and that means they can be very destructive. If they are bored, a Sphynx will find something to amuse themselves with. Offer plenty of playtime with them and you will find that they are less likely to ruin your rug or grab things from tables and counters. Make sure they have a scratching post or other scraper, like cardboard, so they don’t destroy your furniture. Some Sphynxes like to play with toys that they can grab, bite, and kick with their hind legs and some cats like to play with toys that they can chase like a mouse on a wire or a laser pointer.
3) Hairless cats can get cold easily. Make sure to provide plenty of places for them to dig to warm up. Some people leave a blanket on the couch or let them sleep on the bed. You can also provide a heated bed, place a bed in front of a heat register, or make sure they have a place where they can rest in the sun.
If you are interested in a Sphynx cat, these three tips can help you better understand this interesting breed. A hairless cat will enrich your life and make you fall in love every day.