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Coat Type Guide

Hairless Cat Grooming (Sphynx)

Sphynx, Peterbald, and Donskoy cats aren't actually hairless — they have a fine peach-fuzz that gives their skin a suede-like feel. Without fur to absorb skin oils, these cats need regular bathing, ear cleaning, and skin care. They're actually higher maintenance than furry cats in some ways!

🛁
Weekly
Bathing required
👂
Weekly
Ear cleaning needed
🧻
Daily
Wipe between baths
📊
Medium-High
Maintenance level

🐾 Common hairless Cat Breeds

SphynxPeterbaldDonskoyElf CatBambino

🧰Tools You'll Need

Gentle cat shampooSoft washclothEar cleanerNail clippers

📋 Step-by-Step Guide

1

Bathe weekly - hairless cats produce oils with no fur to absorb them

2

Use lukewarm water and gentle cat shampoo

3

Clean ears weekly - they accumulate wax quickly

4

Keep nails trimmed - they get dirty faster without fur

5

Wipe skin between baths if oily

6

Provide warm spots - they get cold easily

💡 Expert Advice

Weekly Baths Are Necessary

Without fur to absorb oils, skin gets greasy and can develop blackheads. Weekly baths with gentle cat shampoo keep skin healthy.

Ears Accumulate Wax Fast

Hairless cats produce extra ear wax with nothing to wick it away. Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner.

Wipe Between Baths

Some hairless cats need daily wiping with baby wipes (unscented) or damp cloth, especially in skin folds.

Nails Get Dirty

Oil and debris accumulate around the nails. Check and clean nail beds regularly.

📅Grooming Schedule

Recommended Frequency: Weekly bathing

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do Sphynx cats need baths when regular cats don't?▼
All cats produce skin oils. Furry cats have hair that absorbs and distributes these oils. Hairless cats have nowhere for the oil to go, so it accumulates on the skin, attracting dirt and clogging pores. Weekly baths remove this buildup.
What temperature water should I use?▼
Lukewarm, like you'd use for a baby. Hairless cats get cold easily, so keep the room warm and have a towel ready. Some owners use a blow dryer on low/cool to prevent chilling. Make baths quick and efficient.
Why are my Sphynx's ears constantly dirty?▼
Hairless cats produce more ear wax than average, and there's no ear hair to wick it away. This is normal for the breed. Clean ears weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner. If ears are red, itchy, or smell bad, see your vet — that could indicate infection.
Are hairless cats really hypoallergenic?▼
No cat is truly hypoallergenic. Cat allergies are usually caused by a protein in saliva and skin secretions, not fur. Hairless cats still produce this protein. Some allergy sufferers do better with hairless cats since there's no fur spreading dander, but it's not guaranteed. Meet the breed before adopting!

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