Do Sphynx Cats Have Skin Problems?

Bald cats have maintenance needs, like any other pets. Many prospective owners of bald kitties wonder if Sphynxes and other hairless felines are prone to skin issues.

Sphynxes and other hairless cats are prone to skin problems. Their sensitive skin is due to genetics, as well as the feature of hairlessness itself because these cats lack the protective barrier of fur. Common skin concerns include dryness, excess oiliness, and acne. Bald cats need skincare routines to prevent issues related to the build-up of oil.

BALD CATS AND COMMON CAUSES OF SKIN PROBLEMS

No Fur Barrier

Sphynxes and other hairless cats were selectively bred to be hairless from cats that had no fur due to a random genetic mutation.

They maintain their peculiar looks but their skin is deprived of the protective shield of the fur. Everything in their environment can be abrasive or irritating.

As an example, hot or cold air can be harsh on the cat’s skin without the insulating power of the fur. Minor mechanical injuries, such as scratches, are also more impactful and harder to heal in hairless cats, due to the lack of a physical barrier.

Problems Related To Oily Skin

Hairless cats do not have a cushion of fur to absorb much of the oil. Although these kitties are just as clean as any other feline, they need more help from their human parents.

Acne and irritation are among the most common problems that come from having some oil build-up on their skin, not to mention the fact that these beauties can leave an oily trace on surfaces.

Sphynxes and other bald cats need regular baths to remove any secretions from their skin. Some cats benefit from having their skin moisturized. Usually, the owner finds a routine that works well for the cat. Finding such a routine could take time but should prevent any hygiene-related problems or at least keep them under control.

Any area that accumulates too much oil is more prone to breakdown and infection, so effective hygiene prevents bacterial infections, too.

Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are not that common in cats but they do occur more regularly in bald cats.

If your cat accumulates some secretions in the areas with multiple skin folds, a yeast infection could develop quite easily. Problems with yeast are more likely in areas where there is already some skin breakdown due to scratching, for example.

Even a minor bacterial infection could lead to a yeast infection, especially in cats with other health issues and compromised immune systems in general.

Urticaria Pigmentosa

Urticaria Pigmentosa is a relatively common condition in Sphynxes in particular and hairless cats in general. It causes hives and irritation and could be mistaken for a common allergy. It is possible that furry cats are afflicted more often than we realize but the condition is not obvious because the hives are concealed by the animal’s coat.

There is likely a genetic component to Urticaria Pigmentosa in cats. Common environmental allergens could make Urticaria Pigmentosa worse, so they are a factor but not the sole cause of the condition. It is worth noting that mast cell disease, or Urticaria Pigmentosa, is a condition that is very poorly understood, so there is much we don’t know about the causes and treatments.

Treatments may include creams to reduce inflammation and medications to control the immune response in the long run. The condition could progress into a systemic problem and affect internal organs, especially in cats who develop Urticaria Pigmentosa at a mature age. Most affected cats have much discomfort associated with the disorder and scratch themselves to the point of developing bold spots (in furry cats). So, the need for treatment could be quite apparent to the pet owner.

Allergies

Sphinxes are also an at-risk breed when it comes to allergies. They develop dermatitis as a reaction to food, kitty litter, or something else in the environment. Your cat scratches in response to the allergen and the skin begins to look inflamed or very dry.

The way to address the problem is the elimination of suspected allergens and very gradual reintroduction. Trying a new kitty litter or changing the kind of kitty food you feed your pet regularly is a good place to start. Identifying the allergen by elimination is a lengthy process but your veterinarian might have suggestions if they suspect that an allergy is a likely problem for your cat.

HOW TO REDUCE SKIN PROBLEMS IN HAIRLESS CATS

Skin Care Routine

Sphynxes and other bald cats, when compared to other cats, may need a more elaborate routine to keep their skin healthy.

Bald cats need regular baths in warm water, using gentle cat wash or other mild soap, castile soap, for example. Once a week might be enough, more as needed.
A Sphynx could enjoy baths but many hate being bathed just like most other cats. You could give your pet sponge baths instead. Use a cloth with some soap and one with just water. Your pet could be more likely to accept this practice than being immersed in water.
Using gentle disposable dander-reducing cat wipes can be a part of the routine and could be very helpful with dander control

Use a massaging brush to improve blood circulation to the skin. Most bald cats enjoy being brushed.
You could try moisturizing your cat’s skin. Since felines love grooming, the moisturizer should be non-toxic to the animal. A small amount of coconut oil is a good option.
Inspect and clean the paws with a wet washcloth because bald cats are more likely to get dirt stuck between the digits of the paw.

Use a cloth to clean their ears.

Just like people, what works for one cat might not work for another one. So, most owners of bald cats try a few things to find a routine that works for them. The advantage of having to keep those practices very regular is that most Sphynxes end up getting used to the routine. Baths and brushing could even become fun bonding times.

Protect From The Sun

Hairless cats are not well suited for spending time outdoors. Bald cats are sensitive to heat, they are also intolerant of cold weather, as it could be expected.

If your Sphynx does like to venture out or enjoys spending time on a sunny balcony, it is important to remember that these cats can get sunburned very easily.

Consider applying animal-safe sunscreen to your cat’s skin.
An alternative to a spray or a cream is a UV-blocking vest for a cat.

Nutrition And Hydration

Sphynx cats need high-protein and high-calorie diets. Their increased need for calories is due to being bold: they spend more energy on keeping themselves warm since they do not have the luxury of fur. Other than that, their needs are not different from other felines.

A combination of wet and dry food of reputable brands and sufficient amounts of fresh water is important. Biologically Appropriate Raw Food could be a great option. More cat parents are switching to it at least partially to reduce the amount of processed food their pets consume. If you feed your pet raw fish, it is important to remove bones to prevent choking.