Prepare your home to a new kitten

Adrian, male, chocolate mink

The hairless Sphynx cat is a very special pet and when it’s ready to bring it home you will want to have everything to be purrrrrfect. So we have prepared the ultimate checklist for everything you will need to prepare for your lovely Sphynx’s arrival.

• Food and Water with Bowls

You can feed your cat morning and evening and make sure there is always a fresh water supply. If some dry food is available during the day its likely to be enjoyed. Check with your Vet on food recommendations. In the meantime, we suggest HiQ and Nature's protection for mother and kitten. When your precious kitten turns 9 months, you can switch to an adult version of the food within the same brand. You need to buy 2 separate metal bowls for water and food. Plastic bowls can be fancy but can lead to acne on your cat's chin.

• Litter Box with Litter

Always keep the litter box fresh and keep a supply of litter on hand too. Sphynx cats can refuse to use a dirty or stinky litter box. Make sure you have bought big and deep litter box and clean it at least 2 times per day. 

• Shampoo

The Sphynx has sensitive skin so it is best to use a medicated shampoo, especially for hairless cats. They do have oily skin because there’s no fur to absorb the natural oils so bathing and grooming kitty regularly is very important. Their skin can become dry if you overwash, so 2-3 times a month is the recommended amount. During summertime they can require more bathing procedures, but you can ease it using baby wet wipes for the armpits and neck. This breed is also very sensitive to the sun so take care it is not in the direct sunlight for too long. Don’t ever use sunblock on your cat’s skin. It will be best to keep the Sphynx indoors most of the time.

We especially recommend finding hypoallergic shampoo for hairless cats and dogs with neutral PH.

• Ear and Eye Cleaner and Nail Clippers

The Sphynx produces ear wax and their ears need to be cleaned 1-2 times a month. Some cats produce it less or more. Since there is no hair to collect the wax it can leak out and stain furniture and fabric surfaces at times. 

We recommend buying small nail clippers designed for cats ( not cats & dogs). It will be easier and safer for and your kitten. Or you may prefer to let a professional handle the task at a cat spa or grooming service. Your fancy cat deserves the best, but I bet you can do it yourself. Check our other articles to know more about grooming.

• Toys

The Sphynx cat has a playful nature and will love having a collection of toys to cuddle, chase and chew. Cat nip toys are always a treat. The pet toy market is endless and a cat can’t have enough toys to play with. We recommend buying toys without natural bird feathers because your cat can be allergic to them. 

• Bed with Pillows and Blankets

Since they don’t have fur, Sphynx cats can feel the cold if the average home temperature is lower than 23 degrees. Plenty of warm bedding is essential. Of course, you might make a wonderful place for your cat to sleep only to find it prefers to be curled up on your lap or on your bed. The kindest owners make sure the cat has its own blanket at the cat’s favorite nap spots – on your bed, on the sofa, and the many other places it might claim as its own. Sphynx cats always try to find the warmest spot in the house and stay there.

• Scratching Post

Cats love to sharpen their claws and a scratching post can save your furniture and sanity at the same time. You can go DIY with the scratching post if you are the creative type and would like to save some money. Otherwise, Amazon or your local pet store has a wide variety to choose from. There is no particular recommendation, just find one that will match your interior and has different spots to scratch and play. 

We finished our must-have list and let's go to the optional goods for your cat, which we think you will need but not as soon as you adopt a sphynx cat.

• Cat Carrier

You will need one for vet visits and any trips in the car you may need to take. Make sure your cat can turn around there and there is still some space for a cat and blanket put on the bottom. We would recommend buying a firm plastic cage that will be accepted at any airline unlike bags made of soft material. A plastic cage can be taken to the cabin. You want to take your kitty cat with you on the plane, wouldn't you?

• Clothes and collars

Clothes are a must-have during wintertime and if you take your cat out. You can check a huge variety of clothing for your sphynx cat at our Platinum Sphynx Shop. 

• Catnip

The inevitable attribute of every long trip or vet visit. Can help your cat to relax and stay calm in your environment.

Adopting a hairless cat is quite the celebration! Don't worry if you could find everything at once. We are sure that you will be the greatest sphynx mom and dad and will learn to make your sphynx cat the happiest cat in the world!