⚡ At a glance
- Adult weight: 3–5.5 kg (6.5–12 lb)
- Life expectancy: 12–15 years
- Activity: High · 2–3 play sessions a day
- Best suited to: Indoor life, attentive owners
Key facts
| Origin | Canada |
|---|---|
| Height | Medium, muscular |
| Adult weight | 3–5.5 kg (6.5–12 lb) |
| Life expectancy | 12–15 years |
| Activity needs | High · 2–3 play sessions a day |
| Coat | Hairless or very fine fuzz; skin needs regular care |
| Best suited to | Indoor life, attentive owners |
Approximate ranges based on breed standards; individuals vary.
Temperament
Sphynx cats are affectionate, playful and love attention. They seek warmth in your lap or under the duvet.
Daily exercise
Energetic; 2–3 play sessions a day. They use extra energy to keep warm.
Feeding
Heat loss can raise calorie needs slightly compared with coated cats of the same weight; adjust by weight trend.
Example: a neutered adult Sphynx at an ideal weight of 4 kg (9 lb) needs roughly 240 kcal a day (RER × 1.2). Work out your own pet's needs with the calorie calculator and check ideal weight with the ideal weight calculator.
Common health problems
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM): common
- Skin problems: oiliness, acne, fungal infection
- Sunburn and getting cold
- Gum disease
- Ear wax build-up
Care tips
- Weekly bath or wipe with lukewarm water and cat shampoo
- Clean ears and nail beds weekly
- Warm home in winter, sun protection in summer
- Yearly heart check
Frequently asked questions
Are Sphynx cats hypoallergenic?
The main cat allergen comes from saliva and skin, not hair, so Sphynx cats can still trigger allergies.
Why do Sphynx cats need baths?
With no hair to absorb skin oils, oil builds up. Weekly bathing or wiping keeps the skin healthy.
Do Sphynx cats get cold?
Yes. Keep the home warm; a sweater and warm bed may be needed in cold weather.