What to expect when your expecting a sphynx

[MissLadyK]

Hi hello,

I'm new to the community and excited to be here. In my intro I expressed how I am sphynxless but looking, and have been researching the breed like a crazy.

But, like any new mother I have doubts. I love the breed; their personality, their need for maintaining, their beautiful body (which may be objectifying, heehee) however, they do have an intimdation to them. Especially when breeders and sphynx owners express often their need for care, which I am aware of due to research, but am I aware??

So, I guess my need for discussion here is, what to expect when you are expecting?? Nothing can prepare you right? But can you be prepared?

Much love,
Xoxo
K

 

[Catzzzmeow]

Here is something @admin shared once to help some get a good feel for the personality of the breed Sphynx Personality

I always say your life changes when a Sphynx enters your home. Yes they are higher maintenance, but most of us love the extra time and care. It in a sense bonds you even closer to this amazing breed.

Patti

 

[GoldHazel]

@MissLadyK I totally understand how you feel right now because I recall feeling a similar way a few years ago when I was looking for my first sphynx.
I had waited 18 years for my first sphynx. Once I knew the timing was right, I searched about the breed (for a full year) and for a breeder. I really thought I wanted a sphynx. When I finally found the breeder I was going to use, I hesitated if I wanted one sphynx or two as I had heard so much about how they love to play with each other and keep each other extra toasty by laying together all day/night long, etc. So I pretty much thought I was going to get two at once until I heard so much about the extra care a sphynx needed compared to a furry cat. I hesitated so much that I thought I should possibly get a Cornish Rex or just get one sphynx.
After much thought, I went with just getting one sphynx because of the "fear" that was put into me by others with the extra time and care that went into having a sphynx.
Within two weeks of having my first sphynx, I KNEW that I wanted a second one and I immediately sent my breeder a deposit for the next litter in months to come.
Having a sphynx is like eating potato chips, it's hard to have just one. Well, to make a long story short, two wasn't enough for me and I worked my way up to five naked loves.

It is a lot of work, I won't lie to you. Their ears get dirty really fast, their bodies get filthy the next day after a bath. Their nails must be clipped weekly too and then you have to deal with a thick, yukkie, dark brown gunk that gets on their nails and under the nails and under the flaps of each digit.

Having a sphynx does NOT compare in any way, shape or form to having a furry cat. It's not only the care of cleaning them, it's also giving so much of your time to them. They will not be happy sleeping outside of your bedroom, nor will they most likely not be happy sleeping anywhere other than under the covers with you next to you or on you.

You will not be able to cook, clean, watch t.v., be on your computer, etc. without your sphynx being right there with you. In my house, if one of my babies gets ignored for a split second, they can be relentless and they will either bite you or trip you going down the staircase! LOL Well, not me 'cause I give them my undivided attention, but my husband sometimes thinks he can pet them for five seconds or talk to them for three seconds and that's enough. He always finds out the hard way that when a sphynx wants you, they want you for a lengthy amount of time. LOL

I'm not trying to discourage you, I'm just telling you what it's like in my house. So if you have that much time and love to give and you want a human child, but are opting for a four-legged sphynx instead, then this breed is for you. The only difference for me having a human child compared to a sphynx is that I can leave the kitties home alone while I leave the house for errands, etc. whereas I wouldn't leave a young child home alone, obviously.

Best of luck.

 

[lapril]

Five sphynxes?!!?! You must be in heaven.

** Another concern is the ongoing cost of food. A sphynx needs an extremely high protein diet. Most likely, grocery store brands will do horrible things to your kitty's insides, so it gets expensive very quickly. I have two, and on the low end I spend $150/month on food, on the high end $300/month. I go back and forth between prepackaged raw, freeze dried, and canned.

 

[GoldHazel]

Yes, high quality food for sure. Grocery store food isn't what you want to feed your sphynx. I don't do the raw diet, but I finally figured out a grain-free diet is best in my house.
Possibly canned pumpkin too to firm up loose poop! The sphynx has a tendency to have problems with their stomachs, especially when they are young, but may not outgrow that.
You'll most likely experience "poo foot" and poo all over you, your bed, your hair, and so on!

 

[Hairless Blessing]

A sphynx is a high maintenance animal, costly animal.
But, there is none any better. Their personality, their, love, silliness,
like a kid, a dog and monkey. But, you've never known love, until
you've been loved by a Sphynx. (Animal speaking love) that is.
You'll never be sorry you got one.

 

[lapril]

oh the beloved poo foot

 

[Xandria]

I echo the sentiments above.

I wouldn't trade Max for anything in the world, and I'm about to finally add my second (his half sister).

I don't have children, but I suspect there are similarities between having a human child and a Sphynx. I think the ongoing care required is what binds us even closer to our nakeds than to furred cats. I've had cats for most of my life, and none have compared to the depth of love and devotion that I share with Max.

While they all have their distinct personalities, you can count on them being much like @admin outlined in that post @Catzzzmeow mentioned. And that barely scratches the surface.

Sphynx seem to lure you into their games and habits. You do your hardest to understand their needs, and often I think you do. And when you're in synchronicity, the love... like nothing else.

Keep us informed about your quest!!

 

[MissLadyK]

Thanks everyone so much for all your advice and experiences.

POO FOOT THO!!! lol, makes me a bit nervous, I just started doing a bit of research on the sphynx diet as I think I have touched all other areas but that. I have fancy goldfish, which are another finicky pet when it comes to their diet, so I think I can cope well with diet once I find the diet that works best for my sphynx and my bank account, haha.

this community is so awesome I am glad I have a place where I can come and ask questions.

Much love,
xoxo,
K

 

[Xandria]

Thanks everyone so much for all your advice and experiences.

POO FOOT THO!!! lol, makes me a bit nervous, I just started doing a bit of research on the sphynx diet as I think I have touched all other areas but that. I have fancy goldfish, which are another finicky pet when it comes to their diet, so I think I can cope well with diet once I find the diet that works best for my sphynx and my bank account, haha.

this community is so awesome I am glad I have a place where I can come and ask questions.

Much love,
xoxo,
K

You know... at first poo foot seems like a horrid thing... and then it happens... and you just laugh. No one is exempt!! LOL

I used to keep fancy goldfish too! I loved those little guys but OMG so temperamental. I had one with such a bad swim bladder infection that I operated and put a ballast in him so he could swim upright. Poor thing. Eventually I stopped keeping them because of the heart ache of loss.

I would almost say Sphynx are a bit easier! LOL. Mostly.

 

[MissLadyK]

You know... at first poo foot seems like a horrid thing... and then it happens... and you just laugh. No one is exempt!! LOL

I used to keep fancy goldfish too! I loved those little guys but OMG so temperamental. I had one with such a bad swim bladder infection that I operated and put a ballast in him so he could swim upright. Poor thing. Eventually I stopped keeping them because of the heart ache of loss.

I would almost say Sphynx are a bit easier! LOL. Mostly.

Awesome another Fancy Fish lover. I have a 45 gal tank and I love my goldies I have had my blackmoor for about 3 years now, and she is a big girl.

I am glad to hear that sphynx are 'almost' as easy as goldfish. Haha! That is a relief. I do have an infinity for high maintenance pets. The thing I hear the most is a sphynx is like having a kid, it was said a few times just in this thread. I find this a hilarious comparison, because while I am a teacher of mostly young kids, I have no desire to have any of my own. On the other hand though, I know I will be purchasing baby wipes and johnsons baby shampoo for my cat. Which cracks me up!

Just a little thought bubble I had with myself today while browsing some of the other forums here. Baby food was even mentioned. Haha. I look forward to my future!

Much love,
xoxo,
K

 

[Toa and Ross]

Welcome to sphynxlair! All important things are already said. I only want to add one thing. When you get your sphynx and people will visit you, you go to your work or walk on the street be prepaired people asking you...why do you have such a big smile on your face and at that moment you can only whisper the name of your sphynx baby.

 

[MissLadyK]

Welcome to sphynxlair! All important things are already said. I only want to add one thing. When you get your sphynx and people will visit you, you go to your work or walk on the street be prepaired people asking you...why do you have such a big smile on your face and at that moment you can only whisper the name of your sphynx baby.

Oh my goodness!! My evening was really rough this night and all I could think of was if I had my baby I would be happy. Then I saw this message, and it cheered me right up.

This community is so wonderful, thank you so much for all the advice.

Much love,
xoxo
K

 

[MissLadyK]

Wow

So, this evening was crap then I cheered up, and now it is completely turned. I found a sphynx kitten in my area up for rehoming in my budget and I will be picking him up tomorrow morning.

all the feelings...

much love,
xoxo
K

 

[nudieluvr]

Awesome. Good luck with the kitten. Let us know how everything goes#

 

[Toa and Ross]

Wow

So, this evening was crap then I cheered up, and now it is completely turned. I found a sphynx kitten in my area up for rehoming in my budget and I will be picking him up tomorrow morning.

all the feelings...

much love,
xoxo
K

That's awesome!! Congratulations and enjoy gotcha day. Can't wait to see pics of your little boy!

 

[Catzzzmeow]

Looking forward to hearing how Gotcha Day went.

 

[Yoda mom]

@MissLadyK , all paws crossed for gotcha day today
(Replied to your other post )

Sphynx are definitely monkey dog cat all in one!
Kitty proof everthing ! ( see threads ) watch when walking amd sleeping or sitting down
they are always underfoot , under covers, over amd under everthing - warm (stoves heat vents etc)
Kitty proof any banisters , be extra careful opening and closing doors! They bolt stealth fast!
I train with treats to wait in a safe spot away from doors

As for food- I actually find it not soo incredibly expensive or difficult with my 4 adoptees-
and a Bengal

I buy all food and litter at chewy.com 20 % off first Autoship (easy to cancel or change )
Amd many brands have a buy 12 get 1 free - just ask
They have this too with popular canned food too like "tiki cat"
Awesome customer service 110%?satisfaction guarantee on food etc

I have been feeding my Sphynx Dr Tims Chase kibble $15.99 5 lb bag
Or 34.49 11 lb bag
Dr. Tim's Chase All Life Stages Formula Dry Cat Food, 11-lb bag

All life stages - *** Free bag program ( I order thr 5 lb bag) never recalled , formulate made by a practicing vet -
We have no poo issues , solid poo from day 1 amd no skin or yeast issues - using it for quite sometime
Very pleased with this food for my Sphynx - just wanted to put it out there - I literally can "feed n go "this Food-

Hylyt shampoo had a soap free base , hypoallergenic also on chewy
Dr Elseys litter in blue bag $15 for 40 lbs at chewy -
All delivered free shipping over $49 so world out well with litter and food amd easy to change or update order online

I do recommend a "Sphynx slush fund" for vet stuff

(I do automatic monthly transfer from checking to savings so I don't feel it and got a "care credit " card to tuck away for any large emergencies - ( have to stay on top of it or will compound awful interest )
Basically minimum monthly payments if $200 amd over charges to be paid in 6 to 18 months depending on your vet amd even people dentist- my vet went 18 mos , my dentist 6 to 12 months - the min pay,met doesn't pay it off but if you keep on top amd pay off in full on time - no interest! I just used for my dentist - I never knew it existed so wanted to pass it on )

Are you signing up for kitty health insurance? Some do before the vet check - lots of anything can be considered pre existing and there are fine print rules to look over that have certain annual shot requirements ( some I don't believe in) amd other fine print rules

I find them not incredibly expensive maintenance having a plan and shopping streamlined routine down pat -
Just more spa days! Ear cleanings , nail trimmings to stay on top of is the main thing for me


Yes these kitties do steal your hearts forever
It's an amazing journey I am so happy for you!

Please keep us updated

 

[GoldHazel]

You know... at first poo foot seems like a horrid thing... and then it happens... and you just laugh. No one is exempt!! LOL

I used to keep fancy goldfish too! I loved those little guys but OMG so temperamental. I had one with such a bad swim bladder infection that I operated and put a ballast in him so he could swim upright. Poor thing. Eventually I stopped keeping them because of the heart ache of loss.

I would almost say Sphynx are a bit easier! LOL. Mostly.

I never had a fancy goldfish with any problem and I had more than I could count over all the years I had them. Hmm? But you what? You operated on one of yours? I am afraid to ask if you put him "under" for the surgery or not. I'm afraid to ask anything. LOL OMG!

 

[Xandria]

I never had a fancy goldfish with any problem and I had more than I could count over all the years I had them. Hmm? But you what? You operated on one of yours? I am afraid to ask if you put him "under" for the surgery or not. I'm afraid to ask anything. LOL OMG!

The problem with fancy goldfish in Canada is that we get dregs. When the buyers go to the goldfish producers, the best go to certain Asian countries, then the USA, and then rest of the world. So we get the culls basically. Already we're behind the 8 ball and it's a matter of statistics.

I found that 1 in 3 would die within a few weeks of my purchase, the second the first few months, and I'd be lucky to have the third for a year. It's very sad. I got out of keeping them due to the high mortality rate. It hurt too much as I was very attached to them.

But you know what I'm like in caring for Max... I was just as obsessive with the fish. They wanted for nothing, and I did a tonne of research and yes, even operated on one, and yes, I did put him under. I had a webcam on my operating space and was on a headset phone while communicating with a fish (koi and goldfish) specialist walking me through the operation. Epic times!

I used to even attend koi and goldfish conventions in the States.

Aaaany way... I love fancy goldfish, but too much sadness for me.

 

[GoldHazel]

The problem with fancy goldfish in Canada is that we get dregs. When the buyers go to the goldfish producers, the best go to certain Asian countries, then the USA, and then rest of the world. So we get the culls basically. Already we're behind the 8 ball and it's a matter of statistics.

I found that 1 in 3 would die within a few weeks of my purchase, the second the first few months, and I'd be lucky to have the third for a year. It's very sad. I got out of keeping them due to the high mortality rate. It hurt too much as I was very attached to them.

But you know what I'm like in caring for Max... I was just as obsessive with the fish. They wanted for nothing, and I did a tonne of research and yes, even operated on one, and yes, I did put him under. I had a webcam on my operating space and was on a headset phone while communicating with a fish (koi and goldfish) specialist walking me through the operation. Epic times!

I used to even attend koi and goldfish conventions in the States.

Aaaany way... I love fancy goldfish, but too much sadness for me.

Thank you for not going into too much detail about the fish surgery as I was eating while reading. LOL LOL
I'm a sucker for all types of goldfish myself. I had fish for most of my life, but I "retired" from fish a few years ago. Birds too, had them my entire life. No more. The only birds I come in contact with now are wild birds that need my help.

@MissLadyK we want to hear all about your sphynx and see lots of photos. Hope it all went well and you are a happy camper now.

 

[MissLadyK]

Hey hello,
Just an update for those of you who didn't know. The sphynx I was suppose to pick up turned out to be a scam. I am lucky that I was not hurt, and my money was not taken. The guy just didn;t show up and stopped responding to my messages. My boyfriend was with me which I think is what ended up scaring the guy off, (I mean come on Im not going alone).

I was pretty depressed for a few days, and have learned my lesson. I am looking into breeders now that are strictly in my area that I can visit.

Thank you all for your love.
Much love back,
xoxo
K

 

[Toa and Ross]

Allpaws and fingers crossed you'll find a reputable breeder soon so you can finally have your own sphynx.

 

[GoldHazel]

Hey hello,
Just an update for those of you who didn't know. The sphynx I was suppose to pick up turned out to be a scam. I am lucky that I was not hurt, and my money was not taken. The guy just didn;t show up and stopped responding to my messages. My boyfriend was with me which I think is what ended up scaring the guy off, (I mean come on Im not going alone).

I was pretty depressed for a few days, and have learned my lesson. I am looking into breeders now that are strictly in my area that I can visit.

Thank you all for your love.
Much love back,
xoxo
K

I'm sorry to hear that it was a scam and it left you down in the dumps. I am glad that your money wasn't taken and most of all, you are ok.
Sounds like a good plan to look into all the local breeders.

 

[Nicolemorgan]

Sorry to hear that it turned out to be a scam, but glad you are okay!

We brought our first sphynx, Loki, home December 2014. To say we were in love from Day 1 is an understatement. As I am sure many sphynx owners will tell you, the love and bond you develop with them is so strong. It's almost hard to describe. The bathing, ear cleaning, nail clippings become such a lovely time together. And doing it weekly from when they are a kitten, they get used to it (or ours have anyways). Bundling them up like little babies in blankets after their baths, and the adorable clothing you can get for them...it is so special.

It was only a matter of 4 months until we brought our second sphynx home. Gatsby, who was from the same breeder and Loki's half brother (same dad, different mom). They bonded instantly and to this day are the best of friends. They have become our world, they mean so much to us. You will not regret owning a sphynx!! They sleep with us each and every night, all through the night! Such good kitties.

We have had a few health issues with both of them, and I would recommend looking into pet insurance from a kitten. Or like was mentioned above, a slush fund. Despite their health issues, I would get another sphynx in a heartbeat, and we hope to add a little girl sphynx to our family in the next couple of years!

Good luck with your search!

Here are our two boys, Loki & Gatsby: