When was the Sphynx cat breed created? - briefly
The Sphynx cat breed was created in the late 1960s. This unique breed originated from a natural genetic mutation that occurred in a litter of domestic shorthairs in Toronto, Canada.
When was the Sphynx cat breed created? - in detail
The Sphynx cat breed, known for its hairless appearance and wrinkled skin, was developed in the late 1960s through selective breeding. The first documented cases of hairless cats emerged as spontaneous mutations within the general cat population. One such occurrence took place in Toronto, Canada, where a hairless kitten named Prune was born to a black and white domestic shorthair cat in 1966. Prune's unique genetic makeup laid the foundation for the Sphynx breed.
In parallel developments, another hairless cat named Bambi was born in Minnesota, United States, in 1975. Bambi's lineage can be traced back to a Devon Rex cat named Epidermis, who carried the genetic trait responsible for hairlessness. These initial instances of hairless cats sparked interest among breeders and cat enthusiasts, leading to efforts to establish the Sphynx as a distinct breed.
The systematic breeding program began in earnest during the 1970s and 1980s. Breeders crossed these naturally occurring hairless cats with other breeds, such as the Devon Rex and the American Shorthair, to introduce genetic diversity while maintaining the hairless trait. Through careful selection and breeding practices, the Sphynx cat emerged as a recognized breed in the 1980s.
The Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA) granted the Sphynx breed provisional status in 1995, acknowledging its genetic stability and distinct characteristics. Full recognition by the CFA followed in 2002, solidifying the Sphynx cat as a legitimate and established breed within the cat fancy community.
Today, the Sphynx is beloved for its unique appearance and affectionate nature, enjoying popularity among cat lovers worldwide. The journey from spontaneous mutations to recognized breed underscores the dedication of breeders and the natural curiosity that drives the evolution of domestic cats.