Canadian Sphynx
A breed whose hairlessness is a natural part of its origin
The hairlessness of the Canadian Sphynx is not a trait created by humans, but the result of a naturally occurring genetic mutation. Therefore, the history of the breed is also the story of how this natural characteristic was recognized, understood, and responsibly preserved through careful breeding.
The Origins of the Canadian Sphynx and the Genetic Basis of Hairlessness
The Canadian Sphynx originated in 1966 in Toronto, when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten named Prune as the result of a natural genetic mutation. This kitten, along with other naturally hairless cats, formed the foundation of the breed on which systematic breeding efforts were established (FIFe).
Hairlessness is a trait resulting from a spontaneous, naturally occurring mutation caused by an autosomal recessive change in the KRT71 gene. This mutation produces the breed’s characteristic near-total lack of coat, distinguishing the Canadian Sphynx from other breeds with sparse hair. The genetic basis of hairlessness was later identified in a study that confirmed the breed’s natural origin and the importance of responsible breeding practices (Gandolfi et al., 2010).
Fun Fact
One of the world’s oldest cats was the hairless Granpa Rexs Allen, who lived an astonishing 34 years and 2 months (February 1, 1964 – April 1, 1998).
Granpa Rexs Allen was reportedly recognized by the Guinness World Records in 1998 as the oldest living (or possibly the oldest ever recorded) cat before the record was later surpassed by another feline.
According to scientific evidence, hairlessness itself is not associated with the breed’s morbidity or lifespan. Its effects are primarily related to environmental conditions and care practices rather than genetic predisposition. Hairlessness is a physiological trait that does not diminish the breed’s vitality but requires proper care and environmental adaptation from the owner.
Hairlessness affects the cat’s thermoregulation and skin’s protective capacity. Without a coat, the Canadian Sphynx loses body heat more quickly than an ordinary cat and therefore needs a warm, draft-free living environment. Hairlessness increases energy requirements, so nutrition must support the cat’s energy balance. The absence of whiskers may slightly reduce tactile sensitivity, but the breed compensates through enhanced use of other senses—particularly sight and smell—without affecting its adaptability in a home environment (Gandolfi et al., 2010).
Hairlessness affects the cat’s thermoregulation and skin’s protective capacity. Without a coat, the Canadian Sphynx loses body heat more quickly than an ordinary cat and therefore needs a warm, draft-free living environment. Hairlessness increases energy requirements, so nutrition must support the cat’s energy balance. The absence of whiskers may slightly reduce tactile sensitivity, but the breed compensates through enhanced use of other senses—particularly sight and smell—without affecting its adaptability in a home environment (Gandolfi et al., 2010).
Does Hairlessness Affect a Cat’s Health?
Sphynx care
The hairlessness itself requires regular grooming, which may make the Canadian Sphynx a more laborious breed than traditional cats. The thin, downy coat of the sphynx is not sufficient to absorb the oil secreted from the skin and saliva, which means that the cat must be bathed regularly.
Sometimes the sphynx may have retained its cat instinct and doesn't tolerate bathing, thus emphasizing the role of the breeder in the cat's infancy. The kitten should be accustomed to grooming. In a new home, regular grooming, such as bathing, should be continued to establish the habit. The amount of bathing will depend on the cat's skin condition, diet, and the owner's preferences.
Sometimes the sphynx may have retained its cat instinct and doesn't tolerate bathing, thus emphasizing the role of the breeder in the cat's infancy. The kitten should be accustomed to grooming. In a new home, regular grooming, such as bathing, should be continued to establish the habit. The amount of bathing will depend on the cat's skin condition, diet, and the owner's preferences.
About allergising
Cats produce numerous proteins, including Fel d1 protein, which has been identified as the main cat allergen. Fel d1 protein is mainly produced in cats saliva and in the sebaceous glands of the skin. The protein causes an allergic or asthmatic response in sensitive humans.
Fel d1 protein levels in cats and human sensitivity to feline allergens are individual. The Canadian Sphynx is not a hypoallergenic breed and therefore we do not recommend sphynx for an allergic family.
NCBI
Fel d1 protein levels in cats and human sensitivity to feline allergens are individual. The Canadian Sphynx is not a hypoallergenic breed and therefore we do not recommend sphynx for an allergic family.
NCBI
FIFe Breed standard
We follow the FIFe Canadian Sphynx breed standard and the breeding strategy programme developed by Sfinxit ry (Canadian sphynx club of Finland).
Memberships
FIFe – Fédération Internationale Féline
The Finnish Cat Association
Finnish Pedigree Cat Association
Canadian sphynx club of Finland
The Finnish Cat Association
Finnish Pedigree Cat Association
Canadian sphynx club of Finland
