{"id":624211,"date":"2024-07-03T20:11:19","date_gmt":"2024-07-04T00:11:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/?p=624211"},"modified":"2024-07-08T12:07:21","modified_gmt":"2024-07-08T16:07:21","slug":"sphynx-lifespan-how-long-do-they-live","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.catster.com\/cat-health-care\/sphynx-lifespan-how-long-do-they-live\/","title":{"rendered":"How Long Do Sphynx Cats Live? Vet Reviewed Lifespan, Care Tips & FAQ"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n <\/span>\n \nAverage Lifespan<\/a>
\nCare Tips\u00a0<\/a>
\nLife Stages\u00a0<\/a>
\nHow to Tell Your Sphynx\u2019s Age<\/a>
\nFrequently Asked Questions<\/a>
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You can\u2019t help but notice a Sphynx cat<\/a>. The large ears and almond-shaped eyes command your attention. It\u2019s no wonder that they are the 10th most popular breed! Of course, the kitty\u2019s outgoing and energetic personality also helps endear them to pet owners. One question many people consider when deciding on an animal companion is their lifespan. After all, we get attached to our pets, and we want them around for as long as possible. So, how long does this hairless cat breed live? In general, Sphynx cats have an average lifespan of 8-14 years.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Sphynx Average Lifespan<\/h2>\n

It is commonly reported that the Sphynx cat can live 8 to 14 years or more with proper care and healthy genes. We found however that there is little peer reviewed scientific data on their average lifespan. Unfortunately though, one UK based study found that the Sphinx had the lowest lifespan of all breeds analyzed, with a life expectancy of only 6.68 years (compared to the overall average of all cats of 11.94 years).1<\/sup><\/a> Many factors can influence an animal\u2019s lifespan, including domestic cats. Let\u2019s consider some of the most significant considerations.<\/p>\n

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Image Credit: Anthony Aldum, Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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How to Care for Your Sphynx for a Long Lifespan<\/h2>\n

All cats are unique, and the Sphynx, being a hairless breed, requires a bit more care than some other breeds.<\/p>\n

Feeding & Diet<\/h3>\n

The Sphynx is an active cat and requires a high-quality diet that gives them all the energy they need. It is best to feed your cat a food that is complete and balanced and meets the AAFCO nutritional guidelines for their specific life stage. This will provide them with all the nutrients and vitamins that they need to thrive. However, it\u2019s good to note that a food with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will help maintain your hairless cat\u2019s skin health.<\/p>\n

To prevent them from getting bored, it might be wise to offer your cat their meals via food puzzles, lick mats, or foraging in your home. Offering several small meals throughout the day is ideal, as free-feeding them can lead to obesity.<\/p>\n

Sphynx cats are also reported to have higher metabolisms than other breeds due to their need to regulate their body temperature without fur to keep them warm. While the feeding guideline on the food\u2019s packaging is a good guideline, it\u2019s best to ask your vet for advice about portion sizes for your Sphynx.<\/p>\n

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Image Credit: New Africa, Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Grooming<\/h3>\n

While you might think that Sphynx cats require less maintenance because they don\u2019t have long fur, you\u2019d be incorrect. These cats actually require quite a bit of upkeep.<\/p>\n

For starters, these cats require regular baths, although you also can\u2019t overdo it because their skin will dry out and become irritated. You should avoid any shampoos with harsh scents or ingredients that could dry their skin out. Always look for a shampoo specifically formulated for cats. To prevent ear infections, be sure to check your Sphynx\u2019s large ears regularly for dirt and wax buildup. Clean them with a cat ear cleaning solution and soft cotton ball or pad when needed\u2014never use Q-tips, as this could push the debris further into the ear.<\/p>\n

Sphynx cats are prone to dental disease so regular tooth brushing at home with a cat-friendly toothpaste is advisable.<\/p>\n

Due to their lack of fur, they should be indoor-only cats. If you do happen to allow them outside, you\u2019ll need to dress them in a UV-blocking shirt or pet-safe sunscreen to prevent sunburn. They might also get chilly, so you\u2019ll need to consider getting them a couple of cat sweaters to stay warm.\"divider<\/p>\n

Healthcare<\/h2>\n

Knowing what health issues a Sphynx can be at risk of helps you keep your feline as healthy and happy for as long as possible. Let\u2019s have a look at some of these common issues, and if anything can be done to prevent them.<\/p>\n

Skin conditions<\/h3>\n

As we touched on above, the lack of hair and the protection it provides puts the Sphynx at increased risk of skin problems. Because there is no hair to distribute sebaceous gland secretions, oil can build up on their skin and around their nail beds, meaning they need to be bathed regularly to prevent secondary bacterial and yeast skin infections.<\/p>\n

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Image Credit: santypan, Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Heart Disease<\/h3>\n

Genetics plays a role in the Sphynx\u2019s risk of heart disease, primarily hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and mitral valve dysplasia (MVD). This breed has a greater chance of inheriting these cardiovascular conditions, which, of course, can impact the animal\u2019s lifespan. HCM describes the abnormal thickening of the heart muscle. It can lead to congestive heart failure, blood clots, and in a small percentage of cats, sudden death.<\/p>\n

In predisposed breeds such as the Sphynx, annual screening with echocardiograms is usually recommended as HCM develops over time, it is most often diagnosed in middle aged cats. A genetic test for HCM is also available and responsible breeders will screen their breeding felines to reduce the risk of offspring developing this condition.<\/p>\n

MVD is a condition affecting this heart valve. It can also lead to congestive heart failure.<\/p>\n

Hereditary Myopathy<\/h3>\n

This is also a genetic disorder which the Sphynx can inherit. It also affects the Devon Rex, whose lineage was used to develop the Sphynx. It causes generalized muscle weakness due to a defect in the mechanism by which signals from nerves are transmitted to the muscles. Signs usually become apparent between 3 weeks and 6 months of age. It is an autosomal recessive trait meaning that two copies of the gene must be present for this disease to develop. To reduce the prevalence of this disorder, screening using DNA tests is recommended for cats that may be bred from.<\/p>\n

Urinary Stones<\/h3>\n

Another health concern to be aware of in the Sphynx is a greater propensity for urinary stones or uroliths, a risk shared with the Bengal and Ragdoll, among other feline breeds.<\/p>\n

Our aim isn\u2019t to frighten you about the longevity of this cat. Instead, it underscores the importance of choosing a reputable seller. These individuals will share screening information readily with you. Beware of any breeder who won\u2019t provide testing results or let you see your kitty’s mother and littermates. You should also stick with sellers who offer a health guarantee.<\/p>\n

Many animals with genetic disorders, like HCM, don\u2019t show clinical signs right away. A guarantee protects you. It\u2019s worth noting that your vet may recommend continued monitoring of your cat\u2019s health for some of these conditions. Early detection can improve your pet\u2019s quality of life and extend their lifespan.<\/p>\n

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Image Credit: Irina Vasilevskaia, Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The Life Stages of a Sphynx<\/h2>\n

The life stages of a Sphynx are roughly the same as any other cat.<\/p>\n

The stages are as follows:<\/div>
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