by Alexander Thompson
Aug 17, 2023
3 minute read
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- What Is the Origin of Hairless Cats?
- How Much Does a Hairless Cat Cost?
- Are Hairless Cats Aggressive?
- How to Take Care of a Hairless Cat?
- To Round Up
Hairless cats are always a sight to behold. You do not encounter these
captivating felines with unique appearances every day. Also known as Sphynx cats, hairless cats exist in
different patterns and colors. These charming creatures are popular for their fine fuzz or thin coat of downy
hair. Other endearing yet distinctive features of Sphynx cats have made them a topic of interest among pet
lovers and enthusiasts across the globe.
What Is the Origin of Hairless Cats?
Hairlessness in cats, especially Sphynx cats, is a phenomenon that was uncovered in the 1960s. The first Sphynx
cat was discovered in Toronto, Canada, and was named Prune. Prune’s hairlessness was a result of a
natural
genetic mutation. Years
later, this special trait has been refined and significantly established among cats,
thanks to selective breeding. Breeders have strategically matched cats with the hairless gene to preserve this
unique trait in the new breeds.
How Much Does a Hairless Cat Cost?
The rewarding experience of owning a hairless cat definitely comes with
significant costs. How much you pay for a hairless cat varies, depending on location, breeder reputation, and
pedigree. That said, intending hairless cat owners must be willing to splash about $1,500 to $3,000 on a Sphynx
kitten, depending on the breeder. The steep cost is not surprising, considering how much effort, resources, and
time goes into maintaining the well-being of this particular breed of feline companions.
Are Hairless Cats Aggressive?
The personalities in the Sphynx breed of cats vary among individuals. While you
may only sometimes come across the aggressive ones, the level of aggressiveness, when present, usually depends
on early socialization and the
individual nature of the cats. The effective way to prevent aggression is to
offer a safe, enriched environment coupled with a positive reinforcement training regime.
If this doesn’t improve the situation, it is advisable to consult your vet or
animal behaviorist. The uniqueness of each cat means you must take the time to understand them to create a
strong bond.
How to Take Care of a Hairless Cat?
Caring for the Sphynx breed and other hairless cats is relatively more demanding
because of their specific needs. We have provided five essential tips below to help you take the best care of
your hairless feline pal:
Adopt a Balanced Diet
The only way to nourish the skin of these delicate little pets is to provide
high-quality cat food that meets all their nutritional requirements. These cats tend to have higher energy
levels and metabolism - your vet is always in the best position to give you the best meal plan that provides
them with the appropriate nutrients.
Click to learn How Smart Can Your Pet Water
Fountain Get?
Provide a Climate-controlled Environment
The absence of fur in these cats makes them more sensitive to changes in
temperature. Therefore, you must provide a warm environment, especially when the weather is cool. Keep the place
cozy and introduce heated blankets and beds to keep them snug and comfortable.
Bathe Them Regularly
The skin of hairless cats is naturally oily, which can only be maintained with
frequent baths. Adopt a cat-specific shampoo that is gentle on the skin and effective in removing excess debris
and oils. You should also ensure the skin is dry properly to prevent cold. Click to learn The Right Way to
Bathe
Your Cat.
If you are a dog owner, learn some tips about dog shower here: All You
Need to
Know About Dog Shower.
Protect Them from the Sun
The lack of hair means these cats are at a higher risk of sunburn and skin
damage. Do not expose them to direct sunlight for long, especially during the peak hot hours. If you are taking
them outside, apply pet-safe sunscreen to offer additional protection to their delicate skin.
Schedule Regular Vet Check-ups
It is highly essential to take your hairless cats for routine vet check-ups. The
unique skin type of these cats makes them prone to some skin issues and other health concerns, which can only be
identified and prevented early through regular check-ups.
The tips above will help you and your hairless cat create and foster a strong
bond in a loving and nurturing environment. They also ensure that these affectionate and charming feline pals
lead a happy and healthy life for as long as they are around.
To Round Up
Finally, hairless cats remain an enchanting lineup of feline companions. They
are unique, with soothingly soft skin and a charming personality - no wonder they are obvious favorites among
pet owners and enthusiasts globally. If you own one or plan to, you must understand their genetic origins,
special needs, and the costs of meeting them. Whether you are attracted by their playful nature or innocent
looks, owning a Sphynx cat will always be a rewarding experience if you play by the books.
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