SPHYNX HEALTH CARE

Sphynx cats are a unique and fascinating breed that have captured the hearts of many cat lovers. These hairless cats require special care to maintain their health and well-being.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about sphynx health care, including common health issues, recommended vaccines, as well as hygiene care and tips for keeping your sphynx healthy and happy.

Common Health Issues

Sphynx cats are generally healthy cats, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Here are some of the most common health issues that sphynx cats can experience:

    1. Skin Issues: Because sphynx cats have little to no hair, they are prone to skin issues such as sunburn, dry skin, and acne. Regular bathing and moisturizing can help prevent these issues.

    2. Dental Issues: Sphynx cats are also prone to dental issues such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. Regular dental cleanings and proper dental hygiene can help prevent these issues.

    3. Heart Issues: Some sphynx cats may develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), a condition where the heart muscle thickens and impairs the heart’s ability to function properly. Regular checkups and screenings can help detect this condition early on.

    4. Respiratory Issues: Sphynx cats may be prone to upper respiratory infections due to their sensitive respiratory systems. Proper ventilation and avoiding smoking around them can help prevent respiratory issues.

    5. Gastrointestinal Issues: Sphynx cats may also be prone to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea. A healthy diet and proper nutrition can help prevent these issues.

HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOPATHY (HMC)

If a cat has HCM, the muscle of the left ventricle of the heart is abnormally thick or enlarged. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy or HCM is an unfortunate congenital defect that can be common in the Sphynx breed.

All our Kittens and Cats are Scanned annually for HCM and out breeding program ensures that we select cats that are not prone to having HCM.

VACCINE CARE

Vaccines are an important part of sphynx health care, as they can protect your cat from a variety of serious diseases. Here are some of the recommended vaccines for sphynx cats:

  1. FVRCP: This vaccine protects against feline viral rhinotracheitis, calicivirus, and panleukopenia, which are all highly contagious and potentially fatal diseases.

  2. Rabies: Rabies is a serious disease that can affect both cats and humans. It is important to vaccinate your sphynx against rabies to protect them and those around them.

  3. FeLV: This vaccine protects against feline leukemia virus, a virus that can cause cancer and other serious health issues in cats.

  4. FIV: This vaccine is recommended for cats that are at risk for feline immunodeficiency virus, a virus that can weaken a cat’s immune system and make them more susceptible to other diseases.

    NOTICE: We do not advise any of our cats be vaccinated for FIP, Ringworm, or Giardia. Since the Corona virus outbreak, FIP vaccines are often fatal if your cat has ever been exposed to the coronavirus.

    If so, they will break out with the severe form of FIP if given the vaccine. There is no known treatment for FIP and it is fatal. 

HYGIENE CARE

Sphynx cats require specific hygiene care to keep them clean and healthy. Here are some important hygiene care tips for sphynx cats:

  1. Bathing:

    Sphynx cats need regular baths to remove the oils that can accumulate on their skin. This can be done once a week, or as needed if the cat gets dirty. Use a gentle, pH-balanced shampoo designed for cats, and avoid getting water in the cat’s ears.  

    Avoid over bathing your sphynx because they need their natural oils. If you over bath your cat, they will have excess oils, which will disturb their natural pH. 

    We bathe our cats and kittens in the kitchen sink with a Sphynx shampoo. Avoid over bathing your cat or kitten because they need their natural oils; if you over bath your cat, they will have excess oils, which will disturb their natural pH.

  2. Ear cleaning:

    Sphynx cats can be prone to earwax buildup, so it’s important to clean their ears regularly. Use a soft, damp cloth or a cotton ball to gently wipe the inside of the ear. Avoid using cotton swabs or going too deep into the ear canal, as this can cause injury.

    We use an ear treatment and ear wipes, which are inexpensive.

  3. Nail trimming:

    Like all cats, sphynx cats need regular nail trimming to prevent their claws from growing too long and causing discomfort or injury. Use a pair of cat nail clippers, and be careful not to cut the quick (the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves). Clean between their nail beds and in between their toes weekly. NEVER declaw your cats! 

  4. Teeth cleaning:

    Dental hygiene is important for cats, including sphynx cats. Brush their teeth regularly with a cat-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. You can also provide dental chews or toys to help keep their teeth clean.

  5. Skin care:

    Sphynx cats can be prone to skin issues, so it’s important to keep their skin clean and moisturized. Use a gentle, unscented lotion or oil to moisturize their skin, and avoid using products that contain fragrances or other irritants. It’s also important to check their skin regularly for any signs of rashes or other issues.

  6. Litterbox Training:
    I recommend a non-dust forming, clumping litter. Your Sphynx will be litter trained when they come home. We put in a lot of effort to ensure that our Kittens are litter trained. 

    Our cats are trained to use both covered and non-covered litter boxes.

PLAYTIME

Cat Trees and Shelves

You should buy a cat tree or build cat shelves. Sphynx love to jump, and play. You will not need one until they are at least 6-9 months old. You can make wall shelves if it suits you or window seats for cats. 

Get scratch posts for your cats as well.

Toys

Sphynx love playing with toys. Buy balls or toys that move as they love chasing things and playing. It is very important to play with your kitten daily as this helps socialize them. 

Avoid toys that have small parts that could be swallowed or toys that could choke your cats and always make sure to supervise playtime.

Tips for Keeping Your Sphynx Healthy and Happy

In addition to regular vet checkups and vaccinations, there are several things you can do to keep your sphynx healthy and happy. Here are some tips:

  1. Provide Proper Nutrition: A healthy diet is essential for your sphynx’s health. Choose a high-quality, balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs.

  2. Practice Good Dental Hygiene: Regular dental cleanings and brushing can help prevent dental issues in your sphynx.

  3. Regular Grooming: Although sphynx cats don’t have much hair, they still need regular grooming to prevent skin issues and maintain their skin’s health.

  4. Keep Them Safe: Sphynx cats are curious creatures and may be prone to accidents. Make sure to keep them safe by securing hazardous items and keeping them indoors.

  5. Regular Exercise: Sphynx cats are active and playful cats that need regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Provide plenty of toys and playtime to keep them entertained and active.

Overall, proper hygiene care is an important part of keeping your sphynx cat healthy and comfortable. By following these tips and staying vigilant for any signs of health issues, you can help ensure that your cat stays happy and healthy for years to come.

You can always find cat supplies for hairless cats at amazon. Visit our gallery or available kittens page to see our different assortment of hairless cats.