4 Fun Facts About the Sphynx

Meow Monday

When you hear the word "Sphynx" your mind naturally turns to the great colossus in Egypt, not cats. But we’re not here today to discuss the wonders of ancient Egypt, we’re here to talk cats -- after all it is Meow Monday. Read on for some fun facts about this fascinating and mysterious Sphynx.

Riddle of the Sphynx

You’d think, from the name, that this is an ancient breed, hailing from Egypt and the time of the Pharaohs, but they’re not. The breed's origins actually began in Canada in 1966, when a mutant hairless male kitten named Prune was born. His progeny, also hairless, was classified as a new breed, which was named the Sphyx due the cats' sleek look and resemblance to the iconic Egyptian statues of old.

Skip the Barber

To be precise, the Sphynx isn’t always completely hairless. Some cats are covered with a fine fuzz. And they can have the same markings as other cats (points, spots, tabby, and so on). But like all cats -- possibly even more so -- the Sphynx will seek out the warm spots, like under the covers or snuggled up against you.

Bathing Beauty

That’s right, the Sphynx is a cat that needs baths from time to time. We’re most definitely not saying she’s dirty (how insulting!), but because she has no fur to absorb the natural body oils, she needs a little help from time to time. After all, a cat has standards to maintain.

Attention Seekers

While they enjoy attention and make fantastic show cats, the Sphynx loves your attention even more. A social cat, they’ll actively seek out their human to snuggle with, or show off for. They’re active and energetic and even like the company of other cats and dogs.

So there you have it. Some fun facts on this rare but popular breed.

Meow! It’s Monday.