FAQ

Common Inquiries

We know that choosing the right cat and breeder can be a difficult process. Take a look below at our selection of frequently asked questions and answers, and get in touch if we haven’t included the info you need.

What is Ethical Breeding?

Ethical breeding is of utmost importance when it comes to Sphynx and Devon Rex cats. As a responsible breeder, we take great care to prioritize the health and wellbeing of our cats and kittens above all else.

Ethical breeding begins with selecting breeding cats that have excellent temperaments, conformation to the breed standards, and are free from genetic health issues. All of our breeding cats undergo comprehensive health screening for breed-specific conditions. We perform careful, selective breeding by choosing pairings that will produce the healthiest, highest quality kittens. We are firm believers in quality over quantity, always.

Proper socialization from birth is key for producing well-adjusted kittens. Our kittens are raised underfoot in our home and are gently handled from birth to promote friendly, confident dispositions. We also ensure our kittens receive adequate vaccinations and veterinary care before going to their new homes, including scans for HCM.

Ethical breeding also means keeping precise records, screening potential owners to ensure our kittens go to good homes, and providing ongoing breeder support. We are committed to the cats we produce for their entire lifespan.

Through careful, ethical breeding practices, we are preserving and promoting the unique Sphynx and Devon Rex breeds while ensuring the health and welfare of every litter.

The Ten Commandments of an Ethical Breeder

All kittens are placed by contract.
All kittens are placed with a health guarantee.
Reputable breeders insist and contracts the return of kittens / cats should the purchaser be unable to keep them.
All prospective owners are carefully interviewed, and each breeder has a specific set of requirements to be met.
Breeders are both willing and able to educate the novice. They will happily answer questions regarding the breed and their breeding program.
Reputable breeders insist on being informed of genetic, health or behavior problems the kitten / cat develops.
Reputable breeders do not have more kittens / cats then they are able to keep clean, healthy and socialized.
Breeders spend individual time with each and every cat / kitten.
The breeder is concerned with the temperament as well as the health of the kitten / cat.
The breeder makes themselves available for the advice and help to other breeders throughout the life of the kitten / cat they have placed.

What is the History of the Sphynx and Devon Rex?

The Sphynx

The Sphynx originated in 1966 in Toronto, Ontario, with a kitten named “Prune” who’s mother was a black and white domestic short hair. Although there have been reports of hairless cats throughout history, this was the start of the discovery and breeding of this beautiful and naturally occurring appearance. Two more hairless siblings were born in the early 1970s, named “Dermis" and "Epidermis.” Together with a few other found hairless kittens, they worked together to create the first attempt at the hairless breed. The Sphynx was officially accepted by cat breed associations in the early 2000s after decades of development. Their unique appearance and outgoing personalities have made them very popular companions.

Sphynx in general are very affectionate cats by nature. Sphynx are eager to meet visitors, and tend to pout if they are ignored. However, good luck ignoring these little ones. They love to be held, pet, and most of all loved. While most cats have a limit for affection before running off, Sphynx do not. You will find Sphynx crawling into your bed at night under your covers, and snuggling up to you while watching TV. My babies have been known to sit on my shoulders while I’m doing housework, yelling at me for affection while I’m making dinner, and even interrupting my shower time!

Sphynx cats are most definitely NOT low maintenance. They require a lot of both physical and emotional attention.

The Devon Rex

The Devon Rex traces its roots back to 1960 in Devonshire, England. A curly-coated kitten was born to a stray cat, the result of a natural genetic mutation. Breeders obtained this kitten and began a breeding program focused on this unusual wavy and curly coat. The Devon Rex's soft, unique fur texture is caused by a different genetic mutation than the Rex coats of other breeds. Their coats are extremely soft and felt-like, resembling that of an old tennis ball. Devon Rexes have slender, muscular bodies and big ears that give them an awake, mischievous look.

Devon Rexes are often described as having a mischievous but endearing pixie-like nature. They tend to be very people-oriented cats who crave being a part of their family's daily activities and lives. Don't be surprised to find your Devon Rex following you around the house or "helping" with chores! These inquisitive felines have been compared to monkeys - full of fun antics and hijinks. Devon Rexes love to play games, learn tricks, and explore their surroundings with that curious, adventurous spirit. Despite their perpetual kitten-like energy, Devon Rexes are also big snugglers at heart. They aim to please their owners and love lavishing affection through cuddling in laps, being held, and giving face rubs. Their knack for bonding closely makes them fantastic companions, especially for families with children.

Both Sphynx and Devon Rex breeds are known for their affectionate, intelligent personalities that make them entertaining companions in addition to their trademark looks. Their warm, people-oriented natures have contributed to their growing popularity worldwide.

What are the Breed Standards of Sphynx and Devons?

The Sphynx

Head Shape: The head is a modified wedge shape, longer than wide, with flat forehead and prominent cheekbones. The chin and muzzle are well developed with a slight break at bridge of the nose. The ears are very large, wide at the base, and wide open. They should be set wide and high on the skull and are tall, with rounded tips. The eyes should be large and almond-shaped, slightly slanted. They should not be recessed nor bug-eyed. Any eye color is acceptable. Eyebrows and whiskers may be curly, broken, or completely absent.

Body and Tail: The body is small in size but hard and well-muscled. The belly may appear to be full and round like a “pot belly.” Wide, firm chest and torso. The neck is arched and muscular. Legs are well-boned, wide-set and medium in length. The feet are oval shaped with long, slender toes. The paw and toe pads are very thick giving a cushioned look to the walk. The tail is very thin and whip-like.

Coat: The cat should be basically hairless, or with some extremely fine, down-like hair. Many individuals are born with varying degrees of fur but should be bald by their second birthday. Kittens are often quite wrinkled, and heavy wrinkles are desirable in the adult, especially on the head.

Pattern: All colors are allowed.

Overall Appearance: This is a small to medium size, well built cat with good bone. The cat should not appear overly dainty. The overall impression is amazing. Large ears, large, brilliant eyes, small, round, basically naked body. A truly unique cat. They should be bald and wrinkled, and the body should be very warm with a feel of velvet. This is an outgoing, active and intelligent cat of great charm and unforgettable appearance.

The Devon Rex

Head Shape: Short and broad wedge shape with prominent cheekbones and a squared muzzle. The ears are large, wide at the base with rounded tips. They are low-set and often outward facing. The eyes are large, wide-set, and oval in shape. Any eye color is acceptable. Eyebrows and whiskers may be short, curly, broken, or completely absent.

Body and Tail: Slender, muscular body with a rounded abdomen and broad chest. The neck is arched. The legs are well-boned and medium length. The feet are small and oval-shaped with long, slender toes. The tail is long and tapering covered in the short, wavy Rex fur.

Coat: Extremely soft, tightly curled rex mutation coat of variable curl length and density. The coat feels like wool or a plush carpet.

Pattern: All colors and patterns are allowed.

Overall Appearance: A slender, muscular cat of medium size with a rounded belly and broad chest. Large ears, big oval eyes, and the signature curly Rex coat give them an impish, mischievous look. Their soft, fuzzy waves and attentive expression create an overall whimsical yet charming appearance. An active, people-oriented breed with lots of personality packed into their petite curly bodies.

How do I Care for my Sphynx or Devon Rex?

These unique hairless and curly-coated beauties make wonderfully loving pets, but they do have some special care requirements to keep in mind.

Sphynx Grooming Needs

Despite being hairless, Sphynx require at least as much grooming as furry cats, if not more. Their warm, naked skin gives off more oil that can leave greasy spots on furniture and clothing. Bathing every 3-4 months with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo is essential, ensuring you thoroughly rinse all wrinkles and folds. Baby wipes help keep them clean between baths. Nails need a weekly trim and their paws cleaned, especially between the toes where litter can get trapped. Sphynx are known to sometimes step in their own waste, so gently spreading the toes to clean the area is important. Their large ears require weekly inspections and cleanings with a cat-safe solution and cotton balls. Daily eye corner wipe downs with a damp cloth minimize staining. Sphynx are very sensitive to cold and heat without fur protection. Sweaters, heating pads, and cozy blankets help keep them warm. But they are also prone to sunburn, so pet-safe sunscreen is a must if they have outdoor access. Their grooming is high maintenance but worthwhile for these loving companions.

Devon Rex Grooming

The Devon's distinct curly Rex coat is truly unique. Their soft fuzzy waves shed minimally but can mat if not occasionally brushed with a soft bristle brush. Their coats are quite brittle, so very gentle grooming is required. Bathing every 4-6 weeks or so, using a mild shampoo, helps remove oil buildup and keep that fur soft and curly. However, some may need more or less frequent bathing depending on the individual cat. Devon Rex cats can also get dirt and oil in their large ears, so cleaning may sometimes be required with a cat-safe solution.

Care for Both Breeds

Both Sphynx and Devon Rex do best kept as strictly indoor cats to protect their delicate bodies from extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and other outdoor hazards. Provide plenty of soft bedding, cat trees, and enrichment toys to keep these clever, active felines entertained. Every cat's grooming needs can vary, so closely monitor your pet and adjust their regimen as required. We highly recommend connecting with breed-specific online communities for guidance, and to always use us, as a breeder, as a resource. With their unique looks, washable bodies, and affectionate personalities, Sphynx and Devon Rex make wonderfully entertaining additions to any family willing to give them the specialized care they need.

What is the Health and Lifespan of these Breeds?

These two distinctive breeds make such delightful family pets, and with proper care, they can live long, healthy lives right by your side.

Like any pedigreed cat, Sphynx and Devon Rex have some breed-specific health considerations that responsible breeders watch closely. But don't worry - with the right precautions, these potential issues are very manageable.

One of the biggest health factors for our Sphynx friends is protecting their warm, exposed bodies from the elements. Keeping them as indoor pets and using pet-safe sunscreen prevents burns and skin cancer risks. Their big ears also need regular cleaning to prevent infections. The Canadian Sphynx face challenges unique to their nature. The lack of hair can cause health issues with kittens in the first weeks of life because of susceptibility to respiratory infections. Reputable breeders will not let their kittens go to new homes without being at least 12 weeks of age to ensure the kitten is mature enough to cope in a new environment.

For the Devon Rex, their uniquely fuzzy coats can sometimes lead to issues like hair matting if not brushed weekly. Their big ears can also be prone to dirt and oils if they are not cleaned. But overall, they're a very sturdy, healthy breed. Both Sphynx and Devon Rex cats can sometimes have heart conditions, so testing for deafness and routine cardiac exams help detect any problems early. Many catteries, including ours, also test for other potential inherited issues like HCM. A type of muscular dystrophy associated with alpha-dystroglycan deficiency has been reported in both breeds, but is rarely seen.

With good genetics and proper preventive care from conscientious breeders and owners, Sphynx cats typically live 8-14 years, while Devon Rex cats can often reach 9-15 years old. Of course, many live even longer with their loving families!

So while there are some breed tendencies to be aware of, these cat breeds are overarchingly considered to be healthy felines when given the right care and lifestyle. Their goofy antics and loving companionship make any efforts more than worthwhile!