Are Sphynx Cats Hypoallergenic?

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Sphynx cats are what felines look like if you remove their fur. Many people find these cats odd because of their fur-less bodies. This cat may seem weird at first, but they can be equally pretty and loving when you get used to their look. Some people are quite allergic to cats, so they seek out hypoallergenic pets.

» You might be interested in the 6 Cat Breeds That Don’t Shed and Cat Statistics for 2022.

If you are here wondering are Sphynx cats hypoallergenic, then you will get your answer in this article. The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. Actually, there is a bigger picture to this question. Read on to learn more about the Sphynx cat.

» More information on how to choose the right breed for you and other breeds that are hypoallergenic.

Are Sphynx Cats Hypoallergenic?

Sphynx cats are hypoallergenic to some extent. Due to their furlessness, sphynx cats can cause fewer allergies to those who are allergic. However, Sphynx cats are not hypoallergenic.

Let’s dig into what makes humans allergic to cats in the first place.

Usually, cats produce six different antigens that can trigger allergic reactions, but feline albumin and D1 protein are the most common. The Fel d1 protein is present in their saliva, anal glands, sebaceous glands, skin and fur.

When cats shed, this protein gets scattered around the house along with their dander, which contains the protein. This dander causes allergies for people.

Sphynx cats, who don’t have fur to shed, and low dander production, are considered one of the best choices for people wanting hypoallergenic pets. Sphinx cats have very low chances of causing skin and breathing allergies in people compared to other breeds.

However, the protein is still present in their saliva and on their skin, so those who are severely allergic should not handle a Sphynx can either, as it can still cause an allergic reaction.

» Read about 7 Things You Didn’t Know About the Sphynx Cat.

What Exactly is a Sphynx Cat?

The breed of cat called a Sphynx originated in Toronto and is a cross between hairless cats and Rex cats. They don’t have fur, but they do have a suede-like coat that protects their skin.

Sphynx cats are also known for their distinct looks, with large wrinkled ears and pointed face. They also often have piercing blue eyes.

What Kind of Personality Do Sphynx Cats Have?

When you look at then, you might be thinking they’re mean cats with bad personalities, but that’s not at all the case. In fact, Sphynx cats are very friendly, affectionate and they can make a good companion.

They are generally outgoing and social, unlike many other cat breeds. They love their owners and love being around them. They love cuddling and make a great pet, particularly for anyone needing a hypoallergenic breed.

While these felines are known for their brilliant characteristics and unique appearance, likewise, they require special care and grooming.

Care and Grooming

Sphynx cats need constant grooming and care. The Fel d1 protein on the skin of Sphynx cats can be reduced by giving them regular baths. It is recommended that you bathe them once a week to remove the excess oils from their skin. But don’t worry! It is easier to wash them compared to fully furred felines.

You will need to be careful about their skin oil as it can leave a stain on your bed sheets, sofas, or cushions. That is why regular bathing is necessary.

You need to feed them a balanced diet to keep their skin and overall health in good form. A bad diet will lead to excessive oil production on their skin, and it will cause problems for you.

You will need to limit their exposure to direct sunlight as it can cause problems for Sphynx cats. The lack of fur will also make them susceptible to cold in winters, so you would need to keep them in a warm environment.

Health Problems

There are no major genetic disorders reported in sphynx cats, but they are prone to some health conditions, including Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Hereditary Myopathy.

These two diseases can affect the life span of a sphynx cat. They can also develop ear infections, skin infections, and periodontal disease during their life span. That is why they are considered a high maintenance cat breed.

Other Facts About Sphynx Cats

In case you’re wondering more about sphynx cats, we’ve got a list of other facts you might be interested in.

Sphynx cats are hairless because of a mutation.
They have an eye-catching appearance because of their triangular face and sharp eyes.
Sphynx cats originated in Toronto, Canada.
Sphynx cats are fast learners, active and playful.
Sphynx cats do not like to be on their own for a long time, as they enjoy human companionship.
This breed was given the name sphynx cat after a similar-looking structure in Egypt.
They are usually 8-10 inches in height and weigh up to 12 pounds.
Despite being the furless cat, Sphynx cats come in different colors and patterns like cream, golden, white, skin, grey, silver, and more…
This cat breed has thicker paw pads as compared to other cat breeds.
Their skin is sensitive than other cat breeds because they are hairless, and may easily get skin rashes or irritation.
Sphynx cats have a fast metabolism, so they eat more than other cat breeds.
Sphynx cats have an average life span of 12 to 15 years.

Conclusion

We hope you have gotten a detailed answer to your query “are sphynx cats hypoallergenic?” after reading this article. We also hope that information from this article will help you take better care of your cat’s fur / skin. A sphynx cat can add lots of love and joy to your household, especially if you’ve not been able to have a cat before due to allergies.