Why does a Sphynx have a cat's body? - briefly
The Sphynx has a cat's body because it is a domestic cat breed, genetically derived from standard feline anatomy despite its unique hairless appearance.
Why does a Sphynx have a cat's body? - in detail
The Sphynx cat, despite its distinctive hairless appearance, possesses a body structure that is fundamentally feline due to its genetic and evolutionary lineage. As a member of the Felidae family, the Sphynx shares the same anatomical framework as other domestic cats. Its body is characterized by a flexible spine, retractable claws, and a muscular build, all of which are adaptations that have evolved over millennia to support the predatory and agile lifestyle of cats. The hairlessness of the Sphynx is the result of a natural genetic mutation, specifically in the KRT71 gene, which affects keratin production and hair growth. However, this mutation does not alter the underlying skeletal, muscular, or organ systems that define the feline form. The Sphynx’s body retains the same proportions and functional attributes as other cats, including a lightweight skeleton optimized for climbing, leaping, and quick movements. Additionally, the Sphynx’s internal organs, sensory systems, and behavioral traits align with those of its furry counterparts, reflecting its shared ancestry. The breed’s development through selective breeding by humans has emphasized the hairless trait while preserving the essential feline characteristics. Thus, the Sphynx’s body remains distinctly cat-like because it is, at its core, a domestic cat with a unique phenotype rather than a fundamentally different species. This genetic and biological continuity ensures that the Sphynx retains the physical and behavioral traits that define the feline form, even as its appearance sets it apart from other breeds.