The Pet Atlas

Breed Cats Distinctive Feature

Sphynx

Hairless coat type with skin-first texture and strong heat sensitivity

At a glance

Basic requirements and commitment level

Daily requirements

Activity
Medium
Vocality
High
Health sensitivity
Medium
Grooming
High
Shedding
Low
Temperature sensitivity
High

Context & compatibility

Size
Medium
Lifespan
12–18 years
Coat type
Hairless
Coat length
Hairless

Is this right for you?

Common scenarios where this breed tends to fit well or less well

A good match

  • Want a warm, clingy companion and don't mind skin-care routines

Not ideal

  • Want a truly low-maintenance breed with minimal daily upkeep

Social & behavior

Temperament and interaction style

Personality & activity

Often high-interaction and people-focused—more “with you” than independent in many homes.

Handling & social style

Frequently seeks warmth and contact; tends to do best with frequent handling that stays cooperative and predictable.

Care & health

Setup, routines, and health considerations

Care overview

Hairless “skin-first” care: the key differences are skin oil management and temperature sensitivity, not brushing.

Environment & space

Indoor-only with stable warmth; plan warm resting spots and avoid heavy sun exposure routines.

Daily routine

Regular skin maintenance (wipe/bathe as needed by the individual) plus ear/nail-area attention; keep it consistent so it stays easy.

Health sensitivities

Higher baseline considerations are common in hairless lines; prioritize transparent breeders with screening practices and ongoing veterinary relationships.

Background

Origins and how that history shapes what you see today

Origin region

Canada

Background

Developed from naturally occurring hairless mutations and refined through breeding programs. The hairless, skin-first look is the entire reason the breed exists, and it creates a different baseline than coated cats.