The Sphynx was developed from a naturally occurring hairless mutation first seen in Toronto in 1966.
A hairless kitten named Prune was born in Toronto, Canada, and became part of an early breeding effort. Later breeding programs, including work in Minnesota and the Netherlands, helped establish the modern Sphynx breed. The breed’s hairlessness is genetic, but Sphynx cats can still have a fine layer of peach-fuzz-like hair.
Sphynx skin may show patterns and colors that would otherwise appear in fur. Because the skin lacks a normal insulating coat, these cats can be sensitive to cold and sun exposure. They may also need regular skin care because oils are not absorbed by fur.
The Sphynx is not the only hairless cat breed. The Peterbald and Donskoy developed separately, and their hairlessness involves different breeding histories and genetic backgrounds.