The Sphynx is the most well-known breed of hairless cat. Because of their personality and appearance, they are exceptional cats and require special care.
Every owner should know that it is crucial to bathe a Sphynx even if it appears to be hairless. The hygiene of these animals is paramount. Here are some of the most important things to know about bathing a Sphynx or hairless cat:

Cleanliness is Crucial

Besides the basic care that every cat needs, such as regular veterinary exams and vaccinations, this cat tends to depend on its owner. The reason for this is because they need to be groomed.

We all know that all cats take care of their own hygiene. However, hairless cats need to have their skin groomed and cleaned because they sweat and produce a lot of sebum.

Bathing also includes the eyes, ears, teeth and nails. Therefore, cleanliness is vital for the Sphynx to survive, so getting them used to bathe from an early age is very important.

How Should I Bathe My Sphynx Cat?

Sphynx can have a bath once every 2 to 4 weeks. Here are some things to remember while doing so:

Put a towel on the bottom and use a basin or large bucket that your cat can easily get into. Don’t allow the water to cover your cat completely.

Since they have sensitive skin, it is important to clean them with lukewarm water. These delicate animals react badly to high and low temperatures and can get colds and burns. Remember that the layer of fur that protects them is fragile.

Pour water over the body little by little so that the cat does not get nervous. Be careful not to get their head wet. Lather lightly, and then rinse the skin with plenty of water. Wipe the head with a damp cloth to prevent water from getting into the nose, eyes and ears.

You can create a relaxing atmosphere with cat music, strokes, and certain scents in the bath. Avoid shouting or raising your voice. At the end of the grooming session, dry your cat with a towel and reward them with a treat.

What Shampoo Should I Use to Wash My Sphynx Cat?

For hairless cats or those with sensitive skin, a special shampoo should be used. The most important thing to remember is not to use products intended for humans or other animals. We suggest consulting with your veterinarian to be sure.

Bath Alternatives

Sebum, secreted by the skin, is healthy and natural, and it is responsible for protecting and lubricating the skin.
Therefore, experts do not recommend taking very frequent baths because it removes the essential oils that protect and moisturize. In this case, the skin will start producing them in large quantities, causing inflammation.

A bathing frequency of 20 to 40 days is recommended, but it depends on each cat. Pay attention to the signs, and don’t hesitate to consult a specialist to see if you should increase or decrease the frequency of bathing.

If the skin becomes reddish, reduce the number of bathes. If there is dirt in the tiny folds of the skin, which can cause skin diseases such as dermatitis or mange, alternate bathing with another cleaning method such as wet wipes.

Even if your cat is afraid of water, this is not a reason to neglect hygiene. The aforementioned wet wipes can be used to clean the skin, but there are wet wipes for cats that can be used in such cases.

Cleaning the Eyes, Ears, Nails, and Teeth

When bathing your cat, you need to ensure that the eyes and ears do not get wet.

No Eyelashes

Without eyelashes, dirt and dust can quickly get into a Sphynx’s eyes, and its tear fluid can help prevent disease. You should clean the eyes once a week with saline solution and sterile gauze and use a new gauze for each eye.

A Lot of Earwax Is Produced

Because they are (mostly) hairless cats and have very large ears, their ears get dirty, and earwax builds up. To clean them, place a fresh piece of gauze over both ears with your fingers. You can also use a cotton swab to clean the more superficial areas gently.