Hello!! Proud Sphynx Mama, here!!

[MsE]

Hello All!
I'm so excited to join a community with others with Sphynx.
I became a mama to my handsome boy just Friday!! I'm so in love with him, and I just know I'm on my way to being the "crazy cat lady."
My baby is named Darn Cat (DC for short). I named him after one of my favorite Disney movies, That Darn Cat. I was a HUGE Haliey Mills fan...
DC is adjusting well to his new family but there are just a few questions I have.
1) He poops like a truck driver! It's a lot of poop, and it stinks up my whole house.
I have a buds dome, which he has had no problems using... Is this normal? Also, his last movement was pretty much diarrhea. I'm going to assume it's because he has experienced a huge change. His food is grain free all natural. Same kind of food he was on, just a different brand. But, I have to be honest, I'm a little tired of my constant worry every time he poops. He always has poop on his but and it gets everywhere. I hope it changes because I don't want to stress over his poop.
2) His kitty litter is turning his skin pinkish. I'm using the litter that is pinkish and its the type you can flush. So any suggestions on litter, I would appreciate.
3) Bath tips, please! I had to give him his first bath due to his poopies. I want this to be a process that is somewhat enjoyable for him and myself. Is my expectation too high?
Thank you all, and I look forward to new friendships!!

 

[assibassi]

Hi and welcome !!! DC is very cute !!
To the litter, I never heard of the litter you are using. I am using totally different litter, Dr Elsey's Catlitter. I am sure everyone uses a diff litter that suits their cats and their home.
To the poop , well as a kitten they all or most of them seem to have Poop foot, poop butt , I used to wait outside the litter box with a wet wipe ! ha It took a few weeks or a month. I am not sure how old yours is . Sometimes how much litter you put in your box has sometimes something to do with it I noticed. Too much, they dig to china but don't cover, lesser is better in our house. But with that also, every house is different, every cat is different.
Diahreah , might come from the stress he is having of changes. Changes of food can cause that, changes of house hold can cause that. Give him time. Then you can always attack that as well. Mine had great poop coming into the House and then a month later he had such runny poop and i switched food , i went to the Raw feeding and that has helped us with runny poop. We don't have runny poop no more. Raw is not for everyone or any cat, some cats will not touch it, some humans don't want to deal with it. It was a great choice in our house hold.
Bath ! - get some exfoliating Gloves , they are awesome. I started in the Bath tub, warm water about 3 inches or 4 inches high and scrub a dub dub , I don't even remember what shampoo I used first on ours , I ordered I think from Etsy something that was "sphynx" friendly and I love the flavor Vanilla so i ordered that. It worked ok. Somewhere down the road someone suggested "D'grease" shampoo , I ordered it and that is what we are using in our House ever since, its working wonders with their oils . Also in the beginning i bathed once a week and they were very oily ! I noticed with my Cats , if I bathe every 4 weeks they are staying actually cleaner. Sometimes they get a weekly wipe down with a wet wipe , ear cleaning is usually weekly . Every cat is different, and stays cleaner longer or shorter...

I am sure others will chime in. You will find the right tricks that work with DC .

 

[Toa and Ross]

Welcome to sphynxlair @MsE for you and DC. DC is adorable!
Do you give him the same food as the breeder was giving him? Changing food can cause temperaly tummy and poop issues. Sphynx kittens are known to have poop issues...poop butts, poop tails, poop feeth...poop everywhere. Most of the time it's about finding the right food for your boy. And when they get older most of the time it gets better.

All three of my sphynxes hate bathing. The first time I bathed my boys it was like I tried to kill them. Now they know me better and know what is going to happen it is less worse. But they still don't like it. I make sure I bath them fast. so it's over in no time.

Hope to see a lot of DC here on the lair!

 

[admin]

Hello @MsE and welcome to Sphynxlair! What a cutie you have there! Here is a good poll on litter What brand cat litter do you use?, most tend to use a low dust clumping litter. Has your kitty always had diarrhea? Its not uncommon for cats to come to their new homes with Giardia, most vets just treat it to be safe. Please enjoy the community!

 

[Catzzzmeow]

Welcome ! Great advice was given. Often giardia tests come back negative but a kitten can still have it. Did you set up your vet check appointment yet? If not be sure to bring a poop sample.

Patti

 

[Yoda mom]

@MsE , welcome you and DC to the lair family!
What a handsome boy!

Does your contract have a vet visit clause for wellness check for new kitties?
If not , still a good idea to get one , bring a poo sample to rule out the mentioned giardia or tritrichomonas
We have seen with kitties and poo issues -

Good to get in a to see a vet to establish a good working relationship - and put on DC chart in big letters
"NO Ketamine " anesthesia - (for neuter time etc) I put a tag With the same in of on the crate too.
Sphyn kitties often don't do well with Ketamime bcz of their genes and rebound effect on the heart.

I also discuss vaccinations and get their feel for their ideas about over vaccination too. ( we have seen rabies shot reactions too here with kitties)
ask lots of questions and establish a "be on same page "working relationship.
Ask about sphynx experience - my vet in this small town has no other sphynx clients but is very knowledgeable and always open to consult with colleagues , is conservative with going crazy testing and treats for symptoms first , researches and then moves forward . For me , I like this working relationship type even if not a sphynx expert vet .


1) poop stink- I swear sphynx butt is the worst of any kitty I ever owned! And we have no loose poo issues-
I just think they stink lol-
Often a sudden switch even if same flavor protein of kitty food and new environment stress can bring on poo issues -
I had to sudden switch her too and went with Acana Grasslands and no poo issues even with immediate switch.

Unscented baby wipes work great for butt n toe wipes.
(I like the Huggies naturals Large pack with the tiny flip up oval lid bcz they seem to step moist longer ) many good ones out there to choose from.

Many of us give a teaspoon or less a day of 100% pure canned Libbys pumpkin (no spices in it - be sure to read ingredient label) It helps both types of poo issues.

2) litter - good links on the forum about litters members use .
I switched to Dr Elseys unscented in the blue bag - (clumps well but not flushable )
No skin discoloration.
Hypoallergenic , 99.9 % dust free good for both me and kitty breathing - I hate dust clouds.

3) Baths - aka "Spa Day" - Hylyt shampoo (soap free hypoallergenic easy forgiving rinse )
and exfoliating gloves a must here- ( helps hold slippery kitty too)

I waited a few weeks for full Bath spa time for new kitties
Instead using a few drops of Hylyt very diluted in warm water and used baby face for wipe downs.
A warm towel from the drier is nice for pre spa day training too

My girl is very wrinkly and gets spa day every 10 days - the others can go up to a month with wipe downs in between-
Each kitty is different . You will get a routine - you do not want to over both either amd strip all natural skin oils.

I use a stokkes flexibath bcz its easier on my back amd mine hate hate water -
I put it on bathroom counter with a towel on the bottom
With the drain plug out, over sink- mine haaaaate water -
A towel on the bottom as water drains gets their feet wet and helps clean toes and nails -
I put one hand over shoulder and a wet face cloth over there back seems to be calming.
They stand up on the edge to get out and this is when I do under neck , pits belly butt.
Taking advantage of our spa day working relationship

I have all set up next to it ready to go in advance -
I like using baby face clothes I put in a pitcher of Hylyt shampoo water in the sink , shampoo amd rinse cup aside and a plain cloth for plain water wipes on face
I switched to the dog micro fiber drying towels from Marshalls store- light weight andamd dry kitty quickly

Nails I do check and trim as needed 2x a week and day before spa day
Ears 2x a week wipe with trizultra with Keto on a flat cosmetic cotton round
And wetted precision q tips to gently swirl in little outer ear edge flap.- ( ears seem to stay cleaner with this brand for mine) and it can be used on skin for any nicks or scratches .
Epi otic cleaner is popular too.

Icon we had kids and I imagine having sphynx is as close as it gets
We all learn together here -
Share any tips you like too!

I do get most of my pet stuff food, litter , cat trees , etc with free shipping over $49 here in 2-3 days
From chewy.com - awesome customer service too- if a food or product doesn't work call them-
They go over the top for customer service -, accept coupons too - just call in order-
Amd a buy 12 get 1 freeprogram on many foods including canned tiki cat-
They will read off the list if you ask them -

Looking forward to your journey with DC amd lots of pics!
Happy DC Gotcha! So excited for you both!
Ps- loved that movie!

 

[MsE]

Wow! Thank you, @assibassi @Toa and Ross @admin @Catzzzmeow and @Yoda mom

Thank you, all for the welcome and the advice! I feeling slightly overwhelmed, but found everything so very helpful!

The breeder used Authority- Grain Free etc. The pet store I went to did not carry that specific brand, however I got the closest thing to Authority. I might just wait it out, he is loving the food. Can't seem to get enough of it.

Litter- I got Advanced Natural. But will look into Dr. Elsey's premium litter.

He has had his vet visits already. But, if his poops don't change with the next week (figure I will give him some adjustment time) I will look into getting his stool tested.

I have 7 year old daughter, and she's been wanting a pet for YEARS and lately asking for a brother- DC was a thought through but almost an impulse decision.
Things feel right and my words can't express how my heart is feeling. He is truly an answered prayer! I am so excited to be apart of a Sphynx family! I don't find the form easy to use (I've been on a few in the past) and mobile is hard to navigate (I am picky on responsive because I work for a web developing company). So bare with me while I learn to navigate through posting and replying.

 

[MsE]

DC had his first photo shoot yesterday!
Love love love his photos!

 

[Nicolemorgan]

Stunning photos of your baby @MsE!
Thank you for sharing!

 

[MsE]

@Nicolemorgan Thank you!!
My friend did an awesome job! I joke saying I should have had a catshower because it totally feels like I just had a baby! Everyone wants to meet DC and take pics holding him!!

 

[Toa and Ross]

DC had his first photo shoot yesterday!
Love love love his photos!

Wow! Beautiful photos, just gorgeous. DC is so handsome!

 

[Toa and Ross]

@Nicolemorgan Thank you!!
My friend did an awesome job! I joke saying I should have had a catshower because it totally feels like I just had a baby! Everyone wants to meet DC and take pics holding him!!

Haha I know this feeling. When I got my boys everybody came to visit and braught present. Same thing when I added my girl a few months ago.

 

[MsE]

Wow! Beautiful photos, just gorgeous. DC is so handsome!

Thank you!

 

[MsE]

Haha I know this feeling. When I got my boys everybody came to visit and braught present. Same thing when I added my girl a few months ago.

It's funny how people are so unsure about the breed and think negatively, but once they meet them they fall in love!

 

[Toa and Ross]

It's funny how people are so unsure about the breed and think negatively, but once they meet them they fall in love!

There came a lot of people to my house thinking "I'm going to meet ugly cats" and that kind of things. And they always leave my house saying "oooh they're so cute and so soft and so funny". Most of the time I need to check their bags to make sure they don't take one.

 

[MsE]

There came a lot of people to my house thinking "I'm going to meet ugly cats" and that kind of things. And they always leave my house saying "oooh they're so cute and so soft and so funny". Most of the time I need to check their bags to make sure they don't take one.

Yes!!!!

 

[Nicolemorgan]

@Nicolemorgan Thank you!!
My friend did an awesome job! I joke saying I should have had a catshower because it totally feels like I just had a baby! Everyone wants to meet DC and take pics holding him!!

Haha, that is so true @MsE! They really are like our babies, we should have showers for them!

 

[Zab]

Welcome! Love the crazy cat ladies.... good advice from everyone! I can add that I'm using pee wee pellets and box and love it! I have a grazy digger who used to sneeze like crazy but that's all gone now. I know it doesn't work for all cats, but it could be worth a try. It's cheaper and friendly, just flush it down and empty the tray in the bottom. I slowly introduced it during a two week period to my cats. I'll tell you all about it if you want.
Gotta add, love the name, DC.... enjoy falling in love with that beautiful creature of yours!

 

[Hairless Blessing]

Welcome to sphynxlair, good to have you.
Handsome little Gentleman you have. Great advice given.
@MsE

 

[GoldHazel]

@MsE welcome to the Lair. DC is adorable.

Great advice already given...so I really don't have much of anything else to add. Just wanted to welcome you and DC.

As far as your question about baths, most sphynx cats don't "enjoy" their baths, but they tolerate it as it's part of a routine.
Do try the 100% Pure Pumpkin in the can found in the baking isle of your supermarket. If a tablespoon or so with each meal doesn't firm up the poop, then for sure have the stool tested.

 

[MsE]

Welcome! Love the crazy cat ladies.... good advice from everyone! I can add that I'm using pee wee pellets and box and love it! I have a grazy digger who used to sneeze like crazy but that's all gone now. I know it doesn't work for all cats, but it could be worth a try. It's cheaper and friendly, just flush it down and empty the tray in the bottom. I slowly introduced it during a two week period to my cats. I'll tell you all about it if you want.
Gotta add, love the name, DC.... enjoy falling in love with that beautiful creature of yours!

Thanks!
My daughter wanted to name him Taco (we eat a lot of tacos in our home), but when we thought about it some more Darn Cat was fitting. I am always saying "that darn Olivia." when I tell stories of her misbehaving or telling people about her sass. But, what is funny last night after 30 mins of snuggling with mama. I told DC we should go to bed. I put him down on the floor, and he was off...his scrawny little bum with tail straight in the air, ran straight to my bedroom. I shook my head , chuckled to myself and said "That Darn Cat." It's a fitting name to say the least. I am so in love with this little guy. I can't wait to watch him grow with my daughter.

 

[MsE]

@MsE welcome to the Lair. DC is adorable.

Great advice already given...so I really don't have much of anything else to add. Just wanted to welcome you and DC.

As far as your question about baths, most sphynx cats don't "enjoy" their baths, but they tolerate it as it's part of a routine.
Do try the 100% Pure Pumpkin in the can found in the baking isle of your supermarket. If a tablespoon or so with each meal doesn't firm up the poop, then for sure have the stool tested.

I was thinking about the pumpkin. We did have harder stool yesterday! I had a proud cat mom moment! I wanted to do the potty dance. Ha!

 

[MsE]

Welcome to sphynxlair, good to have you.
Handsome little Gentleman you have. Great advice given.
@MsE

Thank you!

 

[MsE]

Haha, that is so true @MsE! They really are like our babies, we should have showers for them!

I wish DC would let me swaddle him! That Darn Cat won't doesn't enjoy being held/carried around.... lol

 

[GoldHazel]

I was thinking about the pumpkin. We did have harder stool yesterday! I had a proud cat mom moment! I wanted to do the potty dance. Ha!

@MsE, oh boy...have I been there, done that! LOL

I still give my nakeds pumpkin twice a day.