Thursday Thirteen: Sphynx Characteristics

#18 - 13 Sphynx Characteristics

1. Sphynx are very people-orientated and affectionate. Sphynx are very inquisitive and love to be the centre of attention. (1,2)
   
   
2. Sphynx are highly intelligent, playful, and cuddly. (1)
   
   
3. Sphynx have an abundance of energy and mischief and are always with you, on you or showing off for you. "Love Mooch" is the perfect term for these amazing cats. (2)
   
   
4. Sphynx are not completely hairless. The skin should have the texture of chamois, a soft peach or nectarine. The skin may be covered with a very short down. On the ears, muzzle, tail, feet and testicles, there will be short, tightly packed soft hair. (1,2)
   
   
5. A Sphynx' body feels warm and soft to the touch. The lack of a thick insulating coat makes the Sphynx very warm to the touch. (1,2)
   
   
6. Sphynx skin is very wrinkled in kittens and adults should retain as many wrinkles as possible, especially on the head. These wrinkles provide much needed insulation. (1)
   
   
7. The Sphynx is of medium size and body conformation with surprising weight for its size. The Sphynx is firm and muscular with a broad chest, slim neck and pear shaped body. (3)
   
   
8. The Sphynx head is a modified wedge, slightly longer than it is wide, with prominent cheekbones, a distinctive whisker break and whisker pads giving a squared appearance to the muzzle. The skull is slightly rounded with a flat plane in front of the ears. The nose is straight and there is a slight to moderate palpable stop at the bridge of the nose. (3)
   
   
9. Sphynx ears are large to very large. They are broad at the base, open and upright. (3)
   
   
10. Sphynx eyes are large, lemon-shaped, with a wide-open centre while coming to a definite point on each side. (3)
    
    
11. Sphynx legs are medium in proportion to the body. They are sturdy and well muscled with rear legs being slightly longer than the front. Paws are oval with well-knuckled toes; five in front and four behind. The paw pads are thick, giving the appearance of walking on cushions. (3)
    
    
12. The Sphynx tail is slender, flexible, and long while maintaining proportion to body length. It is whip-like, tapering to a fine point. (3)
    
    
13. According to the French breed standard, the Sphynx is part monkey, part dog, part child, and part cat. To say Sphynx are lively is an understatement; they perform monkey-like aerialist feats from the top of doorways and bookshelves. Very devoted and loyal, they follow their humans around, wagging their tails doggy fashion and purring with affection. Sphynx demand your unconditional attention and are as mischievous (and lovable) as children. And despite all that and their unusual appearance, they are completely cats, with all the mystery and charm that has fascinated humankind for thousands of years. While the Sphynx may not be for everyone, its unique appearance and charming temperament has won it an active, enthusiastic following. (4)
    

References:
1- Canadian Cat Association: Sphynx
2- CFA Breed Profile: Sphynx
3- CFA Breed Standard: Sphynx
4- Animal Planet: Cat Breed Profile: Sphynx

Tags: Sphynx, Canadian Sphynx, Canadian hairless, cat, kitten, hairless cat, hairless kitten, Thursday Thirteen