PETS FOR APRIL AND MAY 2015

Sphynx Cats
"Nemo"
"Darwin"
"Gucci"

Sphynx Cats

[ I'll take 5 please! ]

Excerpts taken from The Cat Fanciers' Association Website

In 1966 a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten in Toronto Canada. It was discovered to be a natural genetic mutation and the Sphynx cat, as we know it today, came into existence.

This cat and a few other naturally hairless cats have been found worldwide; produced by Mother Nature, they are the foundation for this unusual breed.

The texture of Sphynx skin has been compared to a suede hot water bottle or warm chamois, and some cats almost have a buttery feel to the skin. [this is true... lori]

One of the most often questions asked about Sphynx is, “Don’t they get cold?” If it is too cold for you, then it will probably be too cold for a hairless cat. However, these cats are smart enough to find a warm spot in the house, curled up with a dog or cat or warm human, on top of your computer, or they will be snuggled under your bed covers.

Sphynx are extremely lovable, known to perform silly antics and can be downright clumsy in their attempts to be the center of attention. They have abundant energy and are mischievous, always wanting to be with you, on you or showing off for you. Sphynx seem to prefer human attention but enjoy the company of dogs and all other breeds of cats. [is VERY true... lori]

Because of the lack of hair that would normally absorb body oils, Sphynx need periodic bathing, ear and nail cleaning. A bath is not difficult with Sphynx, as most cats have been acclimated from kitten hood with bathing and proper grooming from their breeders. Some people who suffer from cat allergies can tolerate living with Sphynx. This is because there is no airborne hair to deal with and the reactive chemical in their saliva is lower than many breeds. Regular bathing also keeps the dander at bay.

These clippings are from a humourous website: The Catster. [http://www.catster.com/lifestyle/5-things-i-learned-sphynx-cats]

"5 Things I’ve Learned From Living with Naked Cats I did my research on cat breeds,
but I had a lot to learn living with two "nudist" Sphynx cats.

1. They are stunning creatures, but not everyone will agree with me - I knew I liked the unique appearance of the Sphynx before getting one, but I didn’t know I’d be so completely captivated by my cats’ big bat ears, runway model cheekbones, and delightful skin folds. I love how Fly’s legs look like she’s wearing sagging pantyhose, and how when Skinny Mini quivers her tail it sends a ripple of wrinkles up her back.
   I can’t get enough of stroking their soft, warm skin and kissing their adorable pot bellies. Sphynxes often don’t have whiskers or eyelashes, which draws even more attention to their expressive, almond-shaped eyes and chubby whisker pads. I understand that this breed is not everyone’s cup of tea, but as my mother used to tell me, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.” (Or, just lie to me and tell me my cats are super cute.)
   
   
   
2. They’ve got big mouths - Sphynx cats are known for being chatterboxes. They "talk" to their owners using a whole repertoire of chirps, squeaks, and whines, and my girls are no exception.
   
   
3. They can get a little … gross - I was warned that Sphynx cats can leave an oily residue on clothes and linen (and on their owners) if you don’t bathe them weekly, but it was still quite a surprise the first time I saw it for myself.
   
   
4. They really don’t like to be alone - They are all up in your business all of the time. I’ll often be taking a shower, minding my own business, and turn around to find Fly perched on the edge of the tub, her large unblinking eyes boring into mine. "You wanted five minutes alone in the bathroom?" she seems to be asking. "I don’t think so." (And yes, they can open doors!)
   
   
5. They’ll completely steal your heart -These cats have totally won me over with their exotic look, playful personalities, and affectionate dispositions.

Other informative sites to visit are:

6 Breeds of hairless Cats: http://featuredcreature.com/6-strange-breeds-of-hairless-cats/

Sphynx Cats: What You Should Know Before You Buy One: http://sphynxcats.hubpages.com/hub/Sphynx-Cats