Introducing the hairless and cute Sphynx cat – a unique feline with a playful and upbeat nature. Due to their hairless bodies and distinctive ear shapes, Sphynx cats require special care and attention, making Sphynx cat essentials necessary for any owner.
Sphynx Cat Essentials
Unlike regular domestic cats, Sphynx cats must be kept warm and protected from the sun due to their hairless bodies. They also require regular cleaning to maintain good hygiene, and their unique ear shape makes them prone to ear infections. Sphynx cat essentials include cat clothing, sunscreen, ear-cleaning solutions, and specialized grooming tools.
Sphynx Cat Supplies
Preparing for a Sphynx cat’s arrival requires more than just the usual cat supplies, but with the proper Sphynx cat essentials, you can ensure that your new pet is happy, healthy, and thriving.
RELATED: Can Sphynx Cats Go Outside?
Sphynx Cat Essentials: Food and Water with Bowls
You can feed your cat morning and evening and make sure there is always a fresh water supply. If some dry food is available during the day its likely to be enjoyed. Check with your vet on food recommendations. In the meantime, we suggest Stella and Chewy’s!
We like ceramic pet dishes because they have some weight to them, they are dishwasher safe and you can get them customized! Stainless steel is a great option for outdoor cats (don’t let your Sphynx cats be outdoor cats) and plastic can be toxic as a food or water bowl.
I love these customized bowls!
Treat your naked feline friend to a stylish and personalized feeding experience with these ceramic Sphynx cat bowls.
Made from high-quality, food-grade ceramic, these bowls are safe for your pet and built to last. With a range of customization options, including cat breed designs and personalized text, they make the perfect thoughtful gift for any cat lover.
Available in two sizes and with a stone-smooth finish, these bowls are both functional and stylish, ensuring your pet always eats in comfort and with class. Proudly crafted in the USA by USA Custom Gifts.
Litter Box with Litter
Always keep the litter box fresh and keep a supply of litter on hand too. Running out of litter is worse than running out of toilet paper!
I have said it before, I will say it again…. Most cats prefer unscented cat litter.
RELATED: Sphynx Cat Care Made Easy: Must-Have Products
RELEVANT: The Ultimate Guide To Adopting A Senior Cat
Do Sphynx Cats Need Lotion?
Yes, they do sometimes require lotion. A Sphynx cat will generate his oils, so he must be bathed more than a cat with fur. These oils also collect dirt, so washing occasionally will be essential. After his bath, you want to pat him dry so that you do not accelerate chapping, dry skin. A little bit of unique moisturizer after he is patted is ideal.
For specifics on Sphynx details, I go directly to the experts!
PET MD has a few articles on Sphynx cats that are very helpful. Their staff of Veterinarians wrote a few articles on the topic. I like it that they are Doctors in animal care and a few of them have had Sphynx as their own pets.
“Since bathing is a necessity for Sphynxes, there are some things you should be aware of before you start running the bathwater. First, you should use a cat shampoo and moisturizer that are formulated for cats with sensitive skin and are not too drying.”
Dr. Mauldin, PETMD
Shampoo
Shampoo is a Sphynx cat essentials product.
The Sphynx has sensitive skin, so it is best to use a medicated shampoo, especially for cats. They have oily skin because there’s no fur to absorb the natural oils, so bathing and grooming the kitty regularly is very important.
Her skin can dry if you overwash, so 1-2 times a week is recommended. This breed is also susceptible to the sun, so take care it is not in direct sunlight for too long.
Don’t ever use sunblock on your cat’s skin. It will be best to keep the Sphynx indoors most of the time. We especially like Earth Bath Shampoo for hairless kitty cats. It is a top-rated product on Amazon too! Being fragrance-free is very important.
Ear and Eye Cleaner and Nail Clippers
The Sphynx produces a lot of ear wax and it’s ears need to be cleaned several times a week. Since there is no hair to collect the wax it can leak out and stain furniture and fabric surfaces at times.
RELATED: Elf Sphynx: The Enchanting Breed of Cats
Nail clippers can be picked up at your local veterinarian or pet store. Or you may prefer to let a professional handle the task at a cat spa or grooming service. Your fancy cat deserves the best. Did we mention the Sphynx is considered a high-maintenance cat? Don’t let that scare you into exploring this option, though. They are also sweet, energetic, and adorable!
RELEVANT: Is A Sphynx Cat A Good Pet?
Toys
The Sphynx cat has a playful nature and will love having a collection of toys to cuddle, chase and chew. Cat nip toys are always a treat. The pet toy market is endless and a cat can’t have enough toys to play with.
Bed with Pillows and Blankets
Since they don’t have fur, Sphynx cats feel cold. Plenty of warm bedding is essential. Of course, you might make an excellent place for your cat to sleep, only to find it prefers to be curled up on your lap or bed. The kindest owners ensure the cat has its blanket at its favorite nap spots – on your bed, the sofa, and the many other places it might claim as its own.
Adopting a hairless cat is quite the celebration! Finding Sphynx accessories to decorate your home will be a common theme before you know it. We love these throw pillows! Any of them are available on Amazon by clicking the image.
If you live in a very cold climate you might want to invest in a heated cat bed or an animal heating pad to make those winter nights cozy.
Collar and Leash
If you thought you won’t need a flea collar you thought wrong because even though they have no fur, the Sphynx can still catch pesky fleas. Of course it is unlikely if you have an indoor pet which the Sphynx should be. A collar with a leash can be used if you want to take it safely outdoors for a walk.
Cloths or Wet Wipes
Sphynx cats are unique and fascinating creatures that require special care and attention. Hairless cats lack the natural protection that fur provides, leaving their skin exposed to dirt, debris, and other environmental irritants. Additionally, Sphynx cats have skin folds and oily skin that can lead to bacteria and other unwanted substances buildup.
Regular bathing is vital for keeping Sphynx cats clean and healthy, but giving them a full shampoo is not always necessary or practical.
This is where wipes come in. Wipes designed specifically for cats can effectively clean the skin folds and remove dirt and debris without needing a full bath.
In addition to cleaning the skin folds, wipes can be used to clean the Sphynx cat’s paws. These cats have susceptible feet, and keeping them clean and free of debris is essential. Wiping under the claws can help prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria that can lead to infection.
When choosing wipes for your Sphynx cat, choosing ones specifically designed for cats is essential. Human wipes, or those designed for dogs, may contain ingredients that are harmful to cats. Look for wipes that are free of chemicals and fragrances and that are gentle on the skin.
Scratching Post
Cats love to sharpen their claws, and a scratching post can save your furniture and sanity at the same time. You can go DIY with the scratching post if you are the creative type and would like to save some money. Otherwise, Amazon has a wide variety to choose from. Kritter Kommunity also offers scratching posts that are great options for hairless kitties!
Sphynx Cat Essentials: Cat Carrier
Some adoption centers, foster parents or breeders will supply a cat carrier when you adopt your cat. You will need one for vet visits and any trips in the car you may need to take.
We at Kritter Kommunity believes in adopting not shopping. There are plenty of Sphynx rescues, do a Google search in your state to find something close to you.
Now that you have your Sphynx cat supplies, you need to cat-proof your house. This will be done very similarly to the way you might baby-proof or child-proof a house.
Remove anything that can be knocked over and broken because cats love to jump onto ledges and other high places to observe life from a high level. Especially expensive items that you treasure should be put in a new place out of the way of your cat.
Check your plants to make sure you don’t have anything inside that might be poisonous to your cat. A quick Internet search will help you check. Also unplug any cords that don’t need to be in power sockets. Within a few days of your cat arriving to its new home you will soon know if it is planning on chewing on cords – a dangerous habit to be discouraged.
Do Hairless Cats Like To Cuddle?
Sphynx kitties do love attention, and yes, they love to cuddle too! If you plan to be at work or away from home a great deal, adopting two is a great idea. They will love to curl up together and stay warm while keeping each other company. A Sphynx cat loves attention from his owner, so scheduled playtime and cuddles will be necessary.
Sphynx cats adore their owners and in one sense, attention from their cat parent tops the Sphynx cat essentials list.
How Long Do Sphynx Cats Live?
This affectionate cat is medium-sized and can be expected to live 8 – 14 years. Due to their sensitivity to sunshine, they should never be left outside. Being indoor cats only will significantly increase their lifespan.
Sphynx cats are so friendly, adorable, and unique in many ways. They love people and are great with both children and other animals. Good luck as you welcome the newest addition to the family.
Almost its exact opposite for coats is the Maine Coon cat. To learn more about this long-haired breed, check out our blog posts:
Do Maine Coon Cats Have A Favorite Person
