Sphynx Cat Care and Adoption FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to Purradox Sphynxery’s FAQs Page

At Purradox Sphynxery, we know that welcoming a new Canadian Sphynx kitten into your home is a big decision. Whether you’re a first-time Sphynx cat owner or a long-time enthusiast of hairless breeds, you likely have plenty of questions. Our FAQ page is designed to provide you with clear, comprehensive answers to the most commonly asked questions about our cats, breeding practices, adoption process, and ongoing care. We are committed to helping you make informed decisions and ensuring that you and your new feline companion are well-prepared for a lifelong bond.

This FAQ section is divided into several key categories, allowing you to quickly find the information you need:

  1. Sphynx Cat Care – Tips and advice on how to groom, feed, and maintain the health of your Sphynx. These hairless cats have unique care needs, from regular ear cleaning to proper nutrition, to keep their skin healthy.
  2. Breeding & Adoption – Learn about our breeding practices, adoption process, and what to expect when bringing a new kitten home. We believe in ethical and responsible breeding, focusing on the health, temperament, and well-being of every kitten.
  3. Sphynx Cat Health – Discover insights into common health concerns specific to Sphynx and other hairless breeds, including heart health and genetic testing. We prioritize the well-being of our kittens and take extensive steps to ensure they are in peak health before they go to their forever homes.
  4. Sphynx Cat Behavior – Explore the fascinating and affectionate nature of Sphynx cats, with tips on socialization, training, and understanding their playful yet cuddly personalities.
  5. Sphynx Kittens – A detailed look at kitten care, development stages, and what you can expect as your new kitten grows. We provide guidance on feeding, litter training, and preparing your home for a Sphynx kitten.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why We Created This FAQ Page

We understand that choosing the right cat for your family is a personal and often overwhelming decision. As a reputable breeder and advocate for the Sphynx breed, we are dedicated to transparency, education, and ethical practices. Our FAQ page is meant to be a resource for anyone curious about these unique and loving cats. Whether you’re considering adopting from Purradox Sphynxery or are simply a fan of hairless breeds, our goal is to provide accurate and up-to-date information to help you care for your cat with confidence.

Spaying/Neutering and Microchipping

Yes, all kittens from Purradox Sphynxery are microchipped before they go to their new homes. This ensures that they have a permanent form of identification, enhancing their safety and making it easier to reunite them with their owners if they ever get lost.

Yes, all kittens from Purradox Sphynxery are spayed or neutered before adoption. This policy ensures responsible pet ownership, promotes the health and well-being of the kittens, and helps prevent unwanted litters. The procedure is done safely by a licensed veterinarian, and the kittens go home fully recovered.

Sphynx cats should be spayed or neutered around 4–6 months of age, depending on size and health. Early spay/neuter prevents health and behavioral issues.

Here’s a brief overview:

Age RangeDetails
4 – 6 MonthsThis is the recommended age range for spaying or neutering, as it prevents unwanted behaviors (like spraying or heat cycles) and reduces health risks.
Minimum WeightAt Purradox Sphynxery, kittens are spayed or neutered when they reach a minimum of 3 lbs, with a preference for higher weights to ensure safety.
Health BenefitsEarly spaying/neutering lowers the risk of reproductive cancers and reduces the likelihood of behavioral issues related to hormones.

For more details, explore our blog post “When and Why to Spay or Neuter Your Sphynx Cat”.

No, a microchip does not work as a GPS tracker. It only provides identification information when scanned by a veterinarian or animal shelter.

No, a microchip cannot track your kitten’s location. Here’s what a microchip does and doesn’t do:

Functionality Details
Identification A microchip is a tiny device implanted under your kitten’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. It contains a unique ID number linked to a database with your contact information. If your kitten is lost and scanned by a vet or animal shelter, they can access your details to reunite you with your pet.
Location Tracking A microchip does not have GPS capabilities and cannot provide real-time location tracking. It’s a passive RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) device that only works when scanned.
Alternative for Tracking For real-time location tracking, consider a GPS collar or tracker designed for pets. These devices offer GPS-based tracking and can help you locate your kitten if they wander away. Examples include Whistle Go Explore or Tractive GPS.

For more details, explore our blog post “Understanding Pet Microchips: What They Do and Don’t Do”.

At Purradox Sphynxery, all kittens are spayed or neutered before they go to their new homes. This policy is in place to ensure responsible pet ownership and maintain the health and well-being of the kittens. Spaying or neutering helps prevent health issues, unwanted litters, and certain behavioral problems, which are key priorities for the cattery.

Keep your cat in a quiet area, monitor the incision for swelling, and limit physical activity. Use a soft collar to prevent licking if necessary.

Here’s a guide to caring for your Sphynx after a spay/neuter procedure:

StepTips
1. Create a Restful SpaceSet up a quiet, comfortable area with a cozy bed for recovery. Keep your Sphynx calm and limit jumping or rough play.
2. Monitor the IncisionCheck the incision site daily for any signs of redness, swelling, discharge, or unusual odor. Contact your vet if you notice anything concerning.
3. Use a Recovery CollarConsider an e-collar or soft recovery cone if your Sphynx tends to lick or bite the incision. This prevents irritation or infection.
4. Limit ActivityKeep activity levels low for at least 7-10 days. Avoid allowing your Sphynx to jump on furniture or engage in active play until fully healed.
5. Follow Medication GuidelinesAdminister any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics as directed by your vet. Never give human medications to your cat.
6. Offer Easy-to-Digest FoodProvide a light meal on the first day after surgery, as anesthesia may cause mild stomach upset. Offer fresh water at all times.
7. Watch for Behavior ChangesSome mild drowsiness or reduced appetite is normal after surgery. Contact your vet if lethargy, vomiting, or other unusual symptoms persist beyond 24 hours.
8. Schedule a Follow-UpA follow-up visit may be necessary to check the healing progress. Your vet can remove any stitches if they’re not dissolvable.

For a detailed guide on post-surgery care, check out our blog post “Caring for Your Sphynx After Spay/Neuter Surgery”.

Yes, microchipping is a very safe procedure. It causes minimal discomfort and provides a permanent form of identification for your kitten.

Yes, microchipping is generally safe for kittens. Here’s a summary of what you need to know:

Aspect Details
Safety of the Procedure Microchipping involves a quick and minimally invasive procedure using a small needle to implant a tiny microchip under the kitten’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The procedure is similar to a routine vaccination and is generally well-tolerated by kittens.
Minimal Pain The process causes only brief discomfort, similar to a vaccination shot. Most kittens recover immediately, and there’s no need for anesthesia. If your kitten is already scheduled for spaying/neutering, microchipping can be done during that procedure to avoid any stress.
No Side Effects Microchips are made from biocompatible materials, meaning they rarely cause allergic reactions or adverse effects. In very rare cases, there may be minor swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves on its own.
Permanent & Secure Once implanted, the microchip is permanent and doesn’t require replacement. It’s designed to stay securely in place, and complications like chip migration are rare.
No Impact on Health Microchips don’t interfere with a kitten’s daily life, movement, or behavior. They do not emit any signal or require a power source, making them completely safe for the long term.
Veterinary Recommendation Most veterinarians recommend microchipping as a reliable form of permanent identification, especially since collars or tags can be lost. It’s a safe and effective way to ensure your kitten can be returned if they’re lost.

For a detailed overview, check out our blog post “Microchipping Your Kitten: Is It Safe and Necessary?”.

Early spay/neuter can reduce the risk of certain cancers, prevent territorial behaviors, and contribute to overall health and lifespan.

Here’s a summary of the benefits of early spay/neuter for Sphynx cats:

BenefitDetails
1. Reduced Health RisksEarly spaying/neutering lowers the risk of reproductive cancers, such as mammary, ovarian, and testicular cancers. It also reduces the risk of uterine infections.
2. Better BehaviorPrevents hormone-driven behaviors like spraying, marking, roaming, and excessive vocalization. It can lead to a calmer and more affectionate temperament.
3. Population ControlHelps reduce the number of unwanted litters, contributing to responsible pet ownership and decreasing the risk of overcrowded shelters.
4. Faster RecoveryYounger cats typically recover more quickly and easily from surgery, with fewer complications than older cats.
5. Improved SocializationSpayed/neutered cats are often easier to socialize and get along better with other pets, showing fewer signs of territorial aggression.
6. Prevents Heat CyclesSpaying eliminates the stress and behavior changes associated with a female cat’s heat cycle, leading to a more stable and predictable personality.

For a detailed guide, visit our blog post “The Benefits of Early Spay/Neuter for Sphynx Cats”.

Spaying and neutering have many benefits, including reducing the risk of certain cancers, improving behavior, and preventing unwanted litters.

Here’s a summary of the benefits of spaying or neutering your kitten:

Benefit Details
1. Prevents Unwanted Litters Spaying/neutering eliminates the risk of unexpected pregnancies, reducing the number of homeless pets and contributing to responsible pet ownership.
2. Reduces Risk of Certain Health Issues Spaying females before their first heat cycle significantly lowers the risk of uterine infections and mammary gland tumors, which can be malignant. Neutering males reduces the risk of testicular cancer and prostate issues.
3. Lowers Behavioral Problems Neutered males are less likely to exhibit aggressive behaviors, such as fighting or territorial marking. Spaying also reduces unwanted behaviors in females, like excessive yowling during heat cycles.
4. Decreases Roaming & Accidents Neutered cats, especially males, are less likely to roam in search of a mate, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries from fights, cars, or other hazards.
5. Promotes a Calmer Temperament Spayed or neutered cats often have a calmer disposition, making them more affectionate and focused on bonding with their owners. This can lead to a closer and more enjoyable relationship with your pet.
6. Controls Hormone-Driven Issues Spaying/neutering eliminates hormone-driven behaviors such as spraying, mounting, and mood swings, which can make living with your cat more pleasant.
7. Supports Overall Long-Term Health Spayed and neutered cats often have longer lifespans due to a lower risk of reproductive diseases, hormone-driven stress, and behavioral conflicts.

For more details, explore our blog post “Why Spaying or Neutering Your Kitten is Essential: Benefits Explained”.

Microchipping is a simple procedure where a small chip is implanted under the skin, usually between the kitten’s shoulder blades. The chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned if your kitten is lost.

Here’s a summary of the process of microchipping a kitten:

Step Details
1. Prepare for the Procedure The vet will start by examining your kitten to ensure they’re healthy and ready for microchipping. If your kitten is due for spaying/neutering, microchipping can be done during that procedure to reduce any stress.
2. Select the Implant Area The microchip is typically implanted under the skin between the kitten’s shoulder blades. This area is chosen because it has enough loose skin to make the process easy and comfortable for the kitten.
3. Insert the Microchip A small, preloaded syringe is used to insert the microchip. The process takes just a few seconds, similar to a routine vaccination shot. Most kittens feel only brief discomfort, like a pinch. Anesthesia is not required.
4. Check the Microchip After the microchip is implanted, the vet will use a scanner to ensure it’s working properly and can be read accurately. This confirms that the chip is active and in the correct position.
5. Provide Microchip Information You’ll receive the microchip’s unique ID number and registration details. This information should be registered with a pet recovery database, linking your contact details to the chip.
6. Monitor for Any Reactions In rare cases, there may be slight swelling at the insertion site, which usually resolves on its own within a few days. Monitor the area and contact your vet if you notice any persistent redness or discomfort.

For more information, explore our blog post “The Step-by-Step Process of Microchipping Your Kitten”.

It is very rare for a microchip to be lost or stop working. However, if this happens, contact your veterinarian to have a new microchip implanted.

If your kitten loses their microchip (which is rare, as microchips are designed to stay securely in place), here’s what you should do:

Step Details
1. Verify with Your Vet If you suspect the microchip is missing, schedule a vet visit. Your vet can scan the area to check if the chip has shifted or is no longer detectable. Microchips can occasionally migrate, but they rarely fall out.
2. Consider Re-Microchipping If your vet confirms that the microchip is not detectable, you may need to re-microchip your kitten. Discuss this with your vet, who can safely insert a new chip.
3. Update Information If a new microchip is implanted, update your contact details with the new chip’s ID number in the appropriate registration database. Cancel or update the previous microchip registration to avoid confusion.
4. Use Additional ID Methods While resolving the microchip issue, consider using a collar with an ID tag that includes your contact information. This provides an extra layer of safety in case your kitten gets lost.
5. Notify the Microchip Company Contact the microchip company to report the issue. They can provide guidance, update records, or offer solutions based on their policies. Some companies may even provide a free or discounted replacement chip.

For more detailed advice, check out our blog post “What to Do If Your Pet’s Microchip Goes Missing”.

We spay and neuter our kittens as part of our commitment to responsible breeding and pet ownership. It helps reduce the risk of overpopulation and improves the overall health and behavior of the kittens.

Here’s a breakdown of why I spay or neuter kittens before adoption at Purradox Sphynxery:

Reason Details
1. Promotes Responsible Pet Ownership Spaying or neutering helps control the pet population, preventing unwanted litters and contributing to fewer cats ending up in shelters.
2. Health Benefits Early spaying/neutering reduces the risk of serious health issues like reproductive cancers, uterine infections, and prostate problems. It contributes to a longer, healthier life for your kitten.
3. Minimizes Behavioral Issues Spayed/neutered cats are less likely to exhibit undesirable behaviors such as spraying, roaming, excessive vocalization, and aggression. This leads to a smoother integration into their new homes.
4. Ensures a Calmer Temperament Cats that are spayed/neutered tend to have a more even temperament, making them more affectionate and better companions. This can create a stronger bond between the cat and its new family.
5. Protects Breeding Lines By spaying/neutering, I maintain control over the breeding of my lines, ensuring that only healthy, ethically bred cats are used for future generations. This protects the quality and health of the Sphynx breed.
6. Reduces Stress During Transition Early spaying/neutering means that new owners don’t have to worry about scheduling and managing a surgery later, reducing stress for both the kitten and the family.
7. Compliance with Ethical Standards Spaying/neutering aligns with ethical breeding practices and ensures that all kittens are placed in homes as pets, not for unregulated breeding purposes.

For more information, check out our blog post “Why Spaying/Neutering Before Adoption is Essential for Sphynx Kittens”.

Yes, we will provide you with the necessary paperwork to register the microchip in your name. This ensures that you can be contacted if your kitten is ever found.

Yes, you will need to register your kitten’s microchip after adoption. Here’s what you should do:

Step Details
1. Receive Microchip Information Upon adoption, you’ll receive your kitten’s microchip number and the microchip company’s contact information. The microchip will be pre-implanted before your kitten comes home.
2. Update Your Contact Details Register the microchip in your name by contacting the microchip company. Provide your name, address, phone number, and any secondary contact information. This ensures that if your kitten gets lost, the chip is linked to your current details.
3. Use the Microchip Database Go to the microchip company’s website or call their customer service to complete the registration. Some companies may require a one-time fee or annual membership for registration.
4. Keep Information Up-to-Date If you move or change your phone number, update your contact information in the microchip database. Accurate information is crucial for a successful reunion if your kitten gets lost.
5. Confirm Registration Some microchip companies may provide confirmation or access to an online account where you can verify the registration. Keep a copy of the registration documents for your records.

For more details on microchip registration, explore our blog post “How to Register Your Kitten’s Microchip After Adoption”.