8 Sphynx Cat Colors: An Overview (With Pictures)
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The Sphynx is one of the most commonly owned breeds of hairless cats. Since the breed originated in Canada in the 1960s, they have grown in popularity around the world. They are energetic, playful, and intelligent. Their unique appearance only enhances their appeal.
Sphynx Cat Appearance
Although they are called hairless cats, some Sphynx cats are not completely bald. However, those that do have hair have short tufts or a fine layer of fuzz. They do not have a full coat like other cats do. The Sphynx cat will also have wrinkled skin, long limbs, and a pot-bellied appearance.
The 8 Sphynx Patterns and Colors
The Sphynx breed standard does not have any patterns or colors included in its specifications. In essence, all colors and patterns found in cats are acceptable in the Sphynx. The color patterns listed here refer to the skin colors of these cats. To better explain the variations possible in the Sphynx, we have broken the possibilities down by pattern type. Here are the eight patterns listed by the Cat Fanciers’ Association:
1. Bi-Colored
The bi-colored pattern includes two distinct colors or patterns. These can be any two solid colors, such as white and black, or a solid color and a pattern, such as calico and white.
2. Calico
The calico pattern in the Sphynx is usually white with black and reddish patches. It can also be a dilute calico pattern which is white with blue and cream patches. The underside of the calico pattern is white.
3. Mink
The mink patterned Sphynx cat will have a solid color body with slightly darker points. Points in a cat refer to the ears, tip of the tail, nose, and feet. The color of the mink-patterned Sphynx cat’s eyes is always aqua, a beautiful contrast to the dark skin color.
4. Pointed
The pointed pattern is similar to the mink in that the points are slightly darker than the rest of the skin. When the pointed Sphynx is a kitten, their skin will be very light and the points will be distinct. As they grow older, the skin will darken to almost the same color as the points. The eyes of the pointed pattern Sphynx are bright blue.
5. Solid
The solid-colored Sphynx can be any color recognized in cat breeds. This includes black, blue, chocolate, cinnamon, cream, fawn, lavender, red, and white. There is no discernable pattern in the skin of this type.
- Related Read:Â Grey Sphynx Cat: Facts, Origin & History
6. Tabby
Tabby-patterned Sphynx cats have rings on their tails and legs. They will usually have a vertical stripe running from the head down to the base of the tail. In some variations, this stripe will be composed of spots. The tabby pattern also includes blotches or spots on the sides and larger rings around the neck. Many colors can be included in tabby variants, including silver, brown, chocolate, blue, cream, red, cinnamon, fawn, and lavender.
7. Tortoiseshell
The tortoiseshell pattern is composed of uneven blotches or patches. The color variations include chocolate, cinnamon, cream, fawn, and lavender. The tortoiseshell differs from the calico because it does not have a white stomach or white on the legs.
8. OSC (Other Sphynx Colors)
This category includes any other patterns and color combinations found in Sphynx cats. For example, any Sphynx cat with one, two, three, or four white feet would fall into the OSC category.
Interesting Facts About the Sphynx Cat
Their many color and pattern options are not the only interesting thing about the Sphynx cat! Here are three other interesting facts about these creatures:
1. They Get Really Cold
If you have a Sphynx cat, you will want to make sure they have plenty of cozy blankets, a warm bed, and maybe even a few sweaters when the weather gets cold. Their lack of hair makes it difficult for them to maintain their body temperature when winter hits.
2. They Are Originally From Canada
Many liken the appearance of the Sphynx to the traditional Egyptian artwork where they got their name. However, these cats were first bred as the result of a genetic mutation in a cat in Canada during the 1960s.
3. They Need a Lot of Grooming and Care
Even though they are hairless, the Sphynx requires a lot of care. Their skin is oily and prone to infections. They need to be bathed at least twice a month with shampoo for cats with sensitive skin. The ears of the Sphynx also need regular cleaning.
Final Thoughts
The Sphynx is a fascinating cat breed. They can be found in just about any color combination and pattern you see in the cat world. Sometimes their look will change as they age with colors darkening or patterns fading. Even though they require a lot of care to keep their skin in tip-top shape, these cats make great pets and are certainly unique looking!
See Also:
- Are Sphynx Cats Hypoallergenic? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Tips
- How Long Do Sphynx Cats Live? (Average and Max Lifespan)
Featured Image Credit: Igor Lukin, Pixabay
