One of the most common questions people ask about Sphynx cats is: “If they’re supposed to be hairless, why does mine have fuzz or patches of fur?”

The answer lies in the fascinating genetics of the breed.

The “Hairless” Gene

Sphynx cats carry a natural genetic mutation in the keratin 71 (KRT71) gene, which changes the way hair develops. Instead of producing a full coat, most Sphynx cats are left with only a soft down, or sometimes no visible hair at all. But the gene doesn’t work the same in every cat—some express it more strongly, while others keep fuzzy patches forever.

Growing Up Bald

Sphynx kittens are often born with a fine coat of fuzz, called a “kitten coat.” In many cases, this falls out as they mature, leaving them with the iconic smooth Sphynx look. But not every kitten loses it completely. Some retain soft peach fuzz on areas like the ears, nose, tail, or feet.

Weather and Warmth

Sphynx cats are sensitive to temperature, and their bodies sometimes adapt by growing a bit of fuzz in colder seasons. It’s like nature’s way of providing a little extra insulation when they need it most.

Genetics and Lineage

Because Sphynx have been carefully outcrossed with other breeds (like the Devon Rex) to maintain healthy genetic diversity, some lines may naturally express a bit more hair growth.

Hormones and Health

Occasionally, changes such as spaying/neutering, diet, or other body shifts can affect how much hair your Sphynx grows. Most of the time, this is completely normal.

The Bottom Line

Not all Sphynx cats are completely bald—and that’s part of their charm! Whether velvet-skinned or sporting a few fuzzy patches, each Sphynx is wonderfully unique.