Our Story and Commitment
A Devotion to the Canadian Sphynx.
RiviaSphynx was born from a genuine love for the Canadian Sphynx breed and a desire to raise healthy, happy, well-socialised kittens in a caring and responsible home environment.
My journey with this wonderful breed has brought immense happiness, but it has also included heartbreak. Both have played an important part in shaping the breeder I am today.
I have also been fortunate to learn from two highly experienced UK Sphynx breeders, whose knowledge, guidance and encouragement have helped me develop the values and breeding practices behind RiviaSphynx.
The Little Cat Who Helped Shape RiviaSphynx
One little Sphynx who will always hold a special place in my heart is Frankie. Looking back, I often wonder whether things might have been different if I had known then what I know now. Perhaps they wouldn't have been. Sadly, I will never know.
What I do know is that I would have approached bringing him home very differently. I would have asked more questions, wanted to understand his health and background, seen the relevant health screening results and taken more time to make an informed decision.
Like so many people falling in love with the Sphynx breed, I was simply excited to welcome a beautiful little kitten into my life. Losing Frankie was heart-breaking, and being left with unanswered questions made an already difficult experience even harder. His story is one of the reasons I feel so strongly about openness, honesty and supporting the people who come to me looking for a kitten. I know how exciting it is to be choosing a new companion, but I also understand how important it is to feel confident in the breeder you choose.
At RiviaSphynx, I actively encourage questions. I want prospective owners to understand the breed, its particular care requirements and potential health concerns before making such an important commitment.
To me, someone who asks lots of questions isn't being difficult. They're being responsible.
Frankie may have been a small part of my life in terms of time, but the lessons he left behind will always be part of RiviaSphynx.
The lessons Frankie taught me continue to shape my approach to breeding today, one built on transparency, health testing, responsible decision‑making and a commitment to lifelong learning.
In loving memory of Frankie, whose little life helped shape the heart and values of RiviaSphynx.
Health, Welfare & Responsible Breeding
My approach has always centred on health, welfare and responsible breeding. My breeding cats are tested for FeLV/FIV, undergo regular PCR screening, and receive annual HCM scans performed by a veterinary cardiologist at the Small Animal Hospital, University of Glasgow, or by Vicky Ironside, Veterinary Cardiologist.
I am listed on the Sphynx Breeder UK ethical breeder register and am a member of the Sphynx Cat Association, along with several other UK cat clubs.
Experience, Care and Welfare
I have shared my home with and cared for cats for over 40 years, giving me a lifetime of practical experience in understanding their needs, personalities and wellbeing.
I am also a registered nurse with over 40 years of professional nursing experience. Although human and veterinary medicine are different disciplines, this background has strengthened my appreciation of careful observation, hygiene, prevention and the importance of seeking appropriate professional advice.
Putting Welfare First
At RiviaSphynx, all veterinary health matters are assessed and managed by qualified veterinary professionals. My role as a breeder is to make informed, responsible decisions and always place the welfare of my cats and kittens first.
My hope is that every person who comes to RiviaSphynx feels informed, supported and confident in their decision, knowing that the wellbeing of these wonderful cats will always come first.
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Continuing Education in Feline Health, Welfare and Responsible Breeding
At RiviaSphynx, I believe responsible breeding is built on knowledge, experience and a lifelong commitment to learning. Alongside my many years of experience caring for cats and my professional nursing background, I continue to develop my knowledge of feline health, genetics, reproduction and kitten care to ensure the highest standards of welfare for my cats and kittens.
Completed Certification
- Feline Health, Wellbeing & First Aid – Animal Love Ltd (CPD Accredited, September 2026)
Ongoing Education
- Advanced Short Course L3 in Feline Breeding, Birthing & Kitten Care – Currently studying
- PawPeds General Course 1 (G1) Cat Ownership Course – Currently studying
My commitment to continued education reflects my dedication to responsible breeding and giving every RiviaSphynx kitten the very best start in life.
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The RiviaSphynx Principle
RiviaSphynx is built around a simple principle: every breeding decision should put the health, welfare and future of the Sphynx first.
Our kittens are raised in our home as part of our family, with individual attention, affection, play and enrichment from the very beginning. We want them to leave us confident, well-socialised and ready to become much-loved members of their new families.
For us, responsible breeding isn't simply about producing beautiful kittens. It's about protecting what makes the Sphynx so special while giving every kitten the strongest possible start in life.
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