13 Convincingly Cute Sphynx Cats By Lauren Murphy Lauren Murphy Lauren Murphy is a cat and dog expert and writer who is also a dedicated Humane Society volunteer. She has also been trained in animal behavior and is an experienced dog walker and pet sitter. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Editorial Process Updated on 11/06/25 Reviewed by Nelva J. Bryant Reviewed by Nelva J. Bryant Dr. Nelva Bryant, DVM, is a highly accomplished veterinarian with three decades of professional experience in animal welfare, public health, and zoonotic diseases. She has worked with airlines and the Centers for Disease Control to improve pet travel through veterinary oversight. Dr. Bryant is a Veterinary Review Board Member for The Spruce Pets. Learn more about The Spruce Pets' Veterinary Review Board Credit: Alisa Kekelidze / Instagram Key Takeaways Sphynx cats are hairless due to a genetic mutation and are known for their sociable, easygoing personalities.Despite appearances, Sphynx cats require regular grooming to maintain skin health.These cats are high-energy, love human attention, and are compatible with other pets, making them great companions. The defined cheekbones and wide-set eyes of the Sphynx cat personify their ancient Egyptian namesake. Often hairless and cuddly, these cats make for a unique pet. They love human attention and excel at agility and tricks despite their pot-bellied appearance. Sphynxes are loyal, easygoing, and great with other pets. Everyone will fall in love with their sense of humor and charming personality. Sphynxes appear hairless, which isn’t attractive to all pet lovers. If you don’t understand the appeal, these adorable photos are sure to spark your Sphynx obsession. 01 of 13 They’re Friendly, but Not Furry Felines Credit: sphynx.bibi / Instagram Sphynx cats are one of the friendliest cat breeds. Their cuddly nature may be explained by their reliance on humans to keep warm. All Sphynxes look hairless but are usually covered with fine hairs that can’t always be seen with the naked eye. Continue to 2 of 13 below 02 of 13 Sphynxes Are Colorful Cats Credit: leafless_sphynx / Instagram Coloring can vary from cat to cat and colors mimic the markings you would find on furrier felines. You can find Sphynx cats in black, white, red, brown, and various multicolor patterns, like calico and tortoiseshell. Continue to 3 of 13 below 03 of 13 Agility Is Their Number One Skill Credit: Meadowsphynx / Instagram They’re show-offs. Sphynxes are a high-energy breed and love performing acrobatic tricks and climbing into high places. They are curious and mischievous cats who love their owners to no end, constantly demanding their undivided attention. Continue to 4 of 13 below 04 of 13 Sunspots Are Everything! Credit: dennis_the_sphynx / Instagram Cats love napping in the sun, and Sphynx cats are no different. Because of their curious nature, Sphynxes do best as indoor cats. Keeping them safe inside will prevent dangerous accidents in the great outdoors. When you’re not home, leave a curtain open so they can find a luxurious sunny spot to fall asleep in. Continue to 5 of 13 below 05 of 13 Regular Grooming Keeps Them Happy and Healthy Credit: Viviane van Hooft / Instagram Despite their hairless looks, grooming is an important aspect of caring for Sphynx cats. Since their body oil isn't absorbed by fur, veterinarians suggest giving Sphynx cats a daily sponge bath. This routine helps prevent skin issues and keeps oil spots from accumulating on furniture. Though they love laying in the sun, exposure should be limited to avoid sunburn on thin-haired Sphynxes. Continue to 6 of 13 below 06 of 13 Sphynx Cats Love Making Friends Credit: JeanyWitch / Instagram Sphynxes are very social cats who crave attention. If you will be away from them often, make sure they have a friend. They get along very well with most pets, including dogs. Consider doubling the fun by adding another Sphynx to your household. Continue to 7 of 13 below 07 of 13 Cuddling Is Their Favorite Activity Credit: Alisa Kekelidze / Instagram Stroking, holding, and cuddling your Sphynx is an unbeatable bonding experience that both of you will enjoy. If you have a Sphynx, you can expect them to sleep with you under the covers to stay warm. It's like having a living, purring foot warmer! Continue to 8 of 13 below 08 of 13 They're Natural Acrobats With Great Balance Credit: Robert Urbaniak / Instagram There’s no better way to have fun with your cat than doing tricks! Sphynxes are exceptionally agile and love performing. Teach them to jump through a hoop or stand on their hind legs for fun. Don’t forget to reward them with lots of tasty treats. Continue to 9 of 13 below 09 of 13 Food Is No Obstacle Credit: Ninja_and_michi / Instagram Sphynxes sure can eat! These cats are small, but their appetites are big. They often look pot-bellied, but that doesn’t mean they’re overweight. They have fast metabolisms too, so they need more food than the average feline. Try foods and treats with real meat and healthy veggies for a well-rounded diet. Continue to 10 of 13 below 10 of 13 They Were Bred Selectively Credit: Marion Kline / Instagram To obtain the less furry coat and exceptionally sociable personality, breeders carefully bred so-called hairless cats until they found the perfect mix. Now, Sphynx cats are highly sought after and top many lists of affectionate feline breeds. Continue to 11 of 13 below 11 of 13 Humor Comes Naturally to Sphynx Cats Credit: Sphynx_pet / Instagram If their charming looks don’t pull you in, their sense of humor will. Their silly antics will have you in tears (of laughter) in no time. Continue to 12 of 13 below 12 of 13 Wrinkles Are Just a Part of Life Credit: hairless_catstagram / Instagram Just like Sphynx cats, furry felines have wrinkles. The difference? They can hide them! Since Sphynx wrinkles are exposed, it’s essential to keep them clean and wash them regularly to avoid dirt and oil buildup. Even without fur, their skin and thin hairs are oh-so smooth to the touch, so pet away! Continue to 13 of 13 below 13 of 13 They’re Hollywood Actors Credit: Airida Jucyte / Instagram One Sphynx cat rose to stardom in the "Austin Powers" films for his role as Mr. Bigglesworth. The Sphynx was the pet of Dr. Evil, who was often shown stroking him lovingly. He was actually a champion cat named Ted Nude-Gent, a play on the name of American musician Ted Nugent. FAQ How much is a Sphynx cat? A purebred Sphynx costs between $1,500 to $4,500. Where can you buy a Sphynx cat? To ensure your Sphynx has been humanely bred and cared for, please purchase it from a reputable breeder. How long do Sphynx cats live? Sphynx cats live from 8 to 14 years. Why are Sphynx cats hairless? Sphynx cats are hairless because of a genetic mutation involving their hair follicles. Explore more: Cats Cat Breeds Hairless Cat Breeds Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Sphynx Cat Breed Information. VCA Animal Hospitals.