In addition to being nearly hairless, it is the sphynx's intelligence, affection, and playfulness that make them unique among felines. Sphynx have fine down on their body, or some hair on the paws, nose, tail, or outer ears. The feel of their skin can be compared to that of chamois or somewhat rubbery. Their eyes are large and lemon shaped and the neck is very flexible, in that when the cat is eyeing something curiously it can extend rather like E.T. from the film of the same name, but in a somewhat more elegant style. Sphynx crave human contact. They are intelligent and most curious, sensitive and extremely loving. However, they do take time to get to know strangers, so do not be put off if initially they study you from a distance. They love playing with people, and often show the versatility of their paws by using them as hands to acquire objects they are not supposed to have! They prefer human attention but enjoy the company of dogs and other cats.
Some people believe that Sphynx are suitable for people with cat allergies, but this is not necessarily true - it depends upon the type of allergy. An allergy to fur means that you may be able to live with a Sphynx. However, an allergy to dander is a very different problem as this is basically dried saliva, which becomes airborne after cats have licked themselves. Should you have an allergy, then you need to spend time with the cats to see if there is any reaction. Of course, you may find that if there is a reaction you can learn to live with it, since the pleasure the Sphynx gives may well outweigh the discomfort.