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Sphynx cats are a very social breed that is very different from the general nature of cats. These cats thrive on companionship as they love human interaction. This immense need for affection can lead to clingy behavior that is generally expected with this breed.
Sphynx cats have the tendency to be very clingy and needy at times. While this is not a generalization to the sphynx breed it is very common for these cats to display overly affectionate behavior. Normally, it’s when they lack proper social and playtime, which is a big requirement for this breed.
To Understand their behavior you really need to familiarize yourself with their personality. Sphynx cats are different from other cats, while cats, in general, have a reputation for being less involved and interactive. These cats are more Dog-Like in their sense of affection and social interaction.
This need for social interaction is the reason why they tend to be very attached to the point where they cling and become too needy.
What Causes Sphynx Cats To Be Clingy?
Sphynx cats are high-energy, social cats that thrive on stimulation and overall interaction. These cats are very high maintenance when it comes to time and attention. Any lack can cause all sorts of issues, in this case, its clinginess.
There are many possible causes of clingy sphynx cats. These causes include:
1. A lack of proper playtime and affection will be enough to cause them to cling. In search of attention and companionship. Normally a cat that is deprived of such will tend to be overly dependent in search to fulfill what’s missing.
2. Boredom is also a big cause of clinginess in sphynx cats. The nature of this breed is high-intensity, playful, and companion orientated. If they aren’t properly stimulated they may become bored which may result in clingy behavior.
3. Health issues can also lead to clingy behavior. If you feel that your sphynx is presenting with unusual behavior then you should speak to your vet to find out if there are any underlying issues so you can get it treated immediately.
4. Stress and separation anxiety are huge contributing factors when dealing with a clingy sphynx cat. This normally happens when your sphynx is too used to you being around and when you are not there it becomes a problem. This is most common when owners go on vacation or are away for too long.
5. Overly Spoiled. Another reason for clingy behavior with sphynx cats is when they are overly spoiled. As cat parents, we want to do everything in our power to make sure our pets are well-taken care of without realizing that we not creating boundaries.
Over time this constant nurturing and providing makes them overly dependent and spoiled. Hence this clinginess is harvested.
6. Changes in their environment are also possible causes for clingy behavior. Sphynx cats are used to the routine and any change or addition to their environment may trigger a response.
7. Early weaning or separation from its mother is also something to look at. Normally breeders only allow kittens to be sold after 8 weeks. However, in some cases, kittens are sold earlier which doesn’t give the mum enough time to wean and develop her kittens.
This only affects the well-being of the kitten making them unable to adequately adjust to humans the way they should. Also for some vulnerable kittens, 8 weeks may not be enough and this could be detrimental to their well-being.
Signs of A Clingy Sphynx.
Sphynx are known for greeting their owners at the door, following them around the home, and even forming close relationships. However, when this type of behavior gets too extreme it can become too much to tolerate.
Here are 6 signs of a clingy cat.
1. To Demanding, always in search of attention. This demanding nature is often harvested by the owner since the cat is used to having everything done their way.
2. Extreme Vocalizations, in aid to get things done their way. These cats may become persistent in order to get what they want.
3. Overly Affectionate, constantly rubbing themselves on you as well as following you around. At times they may become overly dependent as well.
4. Cat blocks you from other objects such as phones, laptops, etc. In other words, they will prevent you from anything that you give attention to.
5. Cat won’t eat or drink in your absence. Some pets may only eat a certain way or must be forced to eat,
6. Jealousy when interacting with other people and objects. With this comes increased aggression towards the people or objects that you are interacting with.
7. Litterbox problems are also a sign of clingy behavior. The cat will defecate or pee outside the litterbox as a result.
Ways To Deal With A Clingy Sphynx.
1. Stimulate Their Mind.
Most of the time your cat is lonely and bored. This could be the reason for the clinginess. Sphynx cats are different from other breeds and they are smarter and more socially demanding. They need to be stimulated to keep occupied.
Normal toys won’t keep them engaged for long, rather get interactive toys that will feed their curiosity.
| RECOMMENDED TOYS FOR SPHYNX CATS. |
| 1. PETLIBRO Smart Electric Cat Mice |
| 2. Motion Activated Cat Laser Toy |
2. Spend Enough Time With Them.
One of the high maintenance requirements for sphynx cats is their need for proper social time and involvement. A lack of such quality time can cause clinginess as a way to get your attention.
These cats are normally not clingy but they require their playtime and interactive stimulation to thrive. Fulfilling their stimulation requirements can make a big difference in eliminating unwanted behavior.
3. Check Their Health.
Sometimes your cat’s clinginess may be a direct response to a certain health issue. If you notice your sphynx has become needier than usual even though you are spending enough time with them, probably time to see your vet.
Before you do decide to go to the vet, rule out other issues such as any changes to their surroundings, any external stresses, or anything else that could cause this dependency.
Once you have examined everything and still can’t find a solution, it’s best to seek professional help. There could be a health issue or a behavioral issue that needs to be corrected.
4. Reward Good Behaviour.
Cats are smart, more so the Sphynx breed. This means that they can comprehend and will use this to their advantage. Your cat knows when they meow constantly or vocalize excessively they will get your attention.
So try using positive reinforcement to encourage the desired behavior. Rewarding them with their favorite treat whenever they do something right can encourage that behavior.
5. Teach Independence.
As pet parents, we want to do everything for our pets to make sure they are well taken care of, but it’s important that you teach them to do things on their own.
Stop spending too much time cuddling them and allow them to play and keep themselves occupied. This will make them self-reliant and better equipped.
6. Get another cat.
Sometimes boredom and lack of companionship can really be the main cause of clingy behavior. Getting an additional cat will help, so they both can keep each other entertained.
You can get a cat or a dog as long as they are compatible and friendly toward each other. Luckily the sphynx breed does well with most other pets so you won’t really have a problem.
