Cat breed genetics is the science behind why cats look and behave the way they do. From their coat type and color to their size, personality, and even health predispositions—genetics plays a crucial role. At Purradox Sphynxery, we specialize in ethical breeding practices that prioritize both appearance and health through thoughtful genetic selection.
🧑🔬 How Are Traits Passed Down?
Cats, like all animals, inherit traits from both their parents. Each parent contributes one copy of each gene. Some traits are dominant, meaning they only need one copy to appear (like curled ears in Elf cats), while others are recessive and need two copies (like the hairless gene in Sphynx cats).
🧪 Example: The Hairless Gene
The hairless gene (hr) in Sphynx cats is recessive, meaning both parents must carry and pass on the gene for kittens to be born hairless. A kitten with only one copy will have fur but may carry the gene and pass it on to their own kittens.
| Gene Pair | Result |
|---|---|
| hr/hr | Hairless (Sphynx) |
| Hr/hr | Furred Carrier |
| Hr/Hr | Fully furred, not a carrier |
🐈⬛ Eye Color & the Dominant Blue Eye (DBE) Gene
One of the most exciting traits in our Elite Program is the DBE (Dominant Blue Eye) gene. This rare trait allows blue or odd-colored eyes in cats regardless of coat color—a highly desirable feature in Sphynx kittens.
Unlike traditional blue-eyed cats (which must have white or pointed coats), DBE cats can be solid black, tortie, or tabby—and still have bright blue or mismatched eyes.
💡 Fun Fact: The DBE gene is dominant, meaning only one copy is needed to express the trait.
🧬 Other Key Genetic Traits in Sphynx Cats
| Trait | Genetic Factor | Inheritance Type |
|---|---|---|
| Hairlessness | hr/hr | Recessive |
| Blue/odd eyes (DBE) | DBE gene | Dominant |
| Curled ears (Elf) | Cu/cu (American Curl) | Dominant |
| Dwarfism (Munchkin) | M/c or M/M | Dominant; can cause health risks if homozygous |
| Color/pattern | Multiple genes (B, D, O, W, Agouti) | Varies: Dominant & recessive |
🧫 Why Genetic Testing Matters
At Purradox, we use Wisdom Panel Optimal Selection™ and annual screenings to ensure our breeding cats are:
- Free of known hereditary diseases
- Paired responsibly to avoid genetic risks
- Matched for traits like eye color, skin texture, and type
We also HCM screen yearly with a board-certified cardiologist, even though HCM is not linked to a single gene but is thought to be polygenic.
🐾 Ethical breeding means making health a priority—not just appearance.
🧬 How We Pair for Health and Type
We breed within defined programs—Signature, Prestige, and Elite—to preserve desirable traits while minimizing genetic risk. Every pairing is intentional, with deep knowledge of each cat’s lineage, temperament, and health profile.
Meet our breeding cats and explore our health protocols.
🐾 Interested in a Genetically Health-Tested Sphynx?
When you adopt from Purradox Sphynxery, you’re not just getting a beautiful cat—you’re getting peace of mind. Each kitten is bred for temperament, health, and unique features like the DBE gene or curled Elf ears.
Apply to adopt your dream kitten today, or join our Priority List for early access to upcoming litters.
