Adopting a cute kitten is something everyone has thought of doing, but adoption is a serious matter and requires a lot of prior planning. This is especially the case when it comes to the felines of the sphynx breed, the famous “hairless cat” that resembles a sphinx.
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Before adopting a sphynx for yourself, there are a few things you should know:
1. Sociable Kittens
According to the Pet MD website, they are so sociable that they are practically like dogs. Ariana Verrilli, a veterinary oncologist at Upstate Veterinary Specialties in Latham, New York (USA), stated that they are indeed quite sociable.
“My hairless cats run to the door to greet me when I get home. I can’t sit without having at least one of them on my lap. At night, they want to stay under the covers,” she explained.
“If you are looking for a cat that will sit by the window and sleep on the bed, but is generally kind of indifferent, do not get a sphynx… If they want something, they will let you know,” added the specialist.
2. Special Skin Care
They don’t have fur, of course, and that’s what sets them apart so much, but taking care of that sensitive skin might be even more challenging than for a skincare-obsessed human. Fortunately, it all boils down to good nutrition.
Just like for any other animal, including humans, feeding is important, said Kirsten Kranz, founder and executive director of Specialty Purebred Cat Rescue, in Wisconsin (USA).
According to her, the quality of the food determines the amount of oiliness produced by the skin. “You want high-quality food because the food affects the amount of oil that a sphynx’s skin produces.”
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“The better the food, the less oil. If you don’t feed them a high-quality diet, the oils build up faster and can lead not only to ongoing skin issues but also to ear wax and infections,” she explained.
They also need to be protected from the sun and cold. Keep them warm during the colder months, but do not let them lay under direct sunlight. If necessary, invest in pet sunscreen to protect your kitten’s sensitive skin.
3. Keep an Eye on Your Cat’s Health
Unfortunately, these adorable kittens are susceptible to heart problems, but regular visits to the vet will alert you about the issues so that proper remedies can be administered.
So, before adopting, do your research and make sure to take good care of these adorable creatures that will want to snuggle with you under a warm blanket.