Bringing Your Sphynx Kitten Home: The First 48 Hours
The beginning of a beautiful friendship with your new little companion.
Bringing home a Sphynx kitten is one of the most exciting experiences for any cat lover and I remember the very first sphynx kitten I brought home - his name was Frankie. Those adorable wrinkles, oversized ears, tiny paws and wonderfully affectionate personalities are what make Sphynx kittens truly irresistible!
But while you're bursting with excitement, it's important to remember that your new kitten is experiencing a big change. They're leaving behind familiar smells, surroundings and the comfort of their mother and littermates to begin a brand-new adventure with you.
At RiviaSphynx, we know just how special these little characters are, and we want every kitten to enjoy a happy, comfortable start in their forever home.
So, what should you expect during those all-important first 48 hours?
1. Prepare a Cosy, Quiet Space
Before your Sphynx kitten arrives, create a peaceful little area where they can settle in at their own pace.Unlike most cats, Sphynx kittens don't have a thick fur coat to help keep them warm, so a cosy environment is particularly important. Make sure your kitten has:
- A warm, comfortable bed with soft blankets
- A clean litter tray that's easy to access
- Fresh drinking water and familiar kitten food
- A few safe toys to explore
- A cosy hiding place where they can feel secure
Keep their space comfortably warm and free from draughts. A soft fleece blanket can quickly become a Sphynx kitten's favourite possession!
RiviaSphynx Tip: Don't be surprised if your kitten prefers snuggling under a blanket rather than sleeping on top of it. Sphynx cats are famous for seeking out the cosiest spots in the house.
2. Let Your Kitten Set the Pace
It's tempting to scoop up your gorgeous new kitten for endless cuddles the moment you arrive home. After all, who could resist? However, even the most confident and affectionate Sphynx kitten may feel a little overwhelmed in unfamiliar surroundings.
When you arrive home, place their carrier in their prepared room, open the door and allow them to come out when they're ready. Some kittens will confidently march straight out to investigate everything. Others might need a little more time. Both reactions are perfectly normal. Sit nearby, speak gently and let your kitten approach you.
Trust grows naturally when your kitten feels safe!
3. Keep Their Food Familiar
The excitement of moving home can sometimes affect a kitten's appetite. For the first few days, it's best to continue feeding the same food they've been used to before leaving their breeder. Suddenly changing their diet can cause an upset tummy, which is the last thing your little one needs while settling in. Offer small, regular meals appropriate for their age, and make sure fresh water is always available. If you decide to change their food later, introduce the new diet gradually.
RiviaSphynx Tip: Keep an eye on your kitten's appetite, drinking and litter tray habits. Young kittens can become unwell quickly, so contact your vet promptly if they're refusing food, seem unusually quiet or develop diarrhoea.
4. Expect a Little Night-Time Mischief!
Your first night together might not involve quite as much sleep as you'd hoped! Sphynx kittens are curious, playful and incredibly people-oriented. Some will settle down beautifully, while others may call out for company or decide that bedtime is the perfect opportunity for an adventure.
Remember, your kitten has probably been used to sleeping close to their mother or siblings. A soft, warm bed and something carrying a familiar scent can help them feel reassured. A gentle play session before bedtime may also help burn off some of that kitten energy. Be patient. Your kitten is learning that their new home is a safe and loving place. And don't be surprised if they quickly decide that being close to you is their favourite place to be!
5. Introduce the Family Slowly
Everyone will naturally be excited to meet the newest member of the family. But try not to overwhelm your kitten with too many introductions at once. Allow them to become comfortable with their immediate surroundings before gradually meeting other family members. If you have children, encourage gentle handling and explain that kittens need time to rest. If you already have other pets, introductions should be gradual and carefully supervised, with separate spaces available until everyone is comfortable. Check out our 3-3-3 guidance for socialising your kitten on our Sphynx Care page.
A calm beginning can make a huge difference to your kitten's confidence!
6. Don't Rush Bath Time
One of the most common questions new Sphynx owners ask is:
"When should I give my Sphynx kitten their first bath?"
Although Sphynx cats may need occasional bathing to manage the natural oils on their skin, there's usually no need to rush into bath time immediately after bringing your kitten home. Give them time to settle first. Bathing needs vary between individual Sphynx cats, and excessive washing can irritate their delicate skin. Use gentle, cat-appropriate products when bathing is necessary, and always dry your kitten thoroughly afterwards to keep them comfortable and warm. For now, just concentrate on building trust, creating routines and enjoying those lovely kitten cuddles!
7. The First 48 Hours Are About Building Trust
By the second day, you may begin to notice your kitten's personality shining through. Perhaps they're already following you around the house. Maybe they've discovered the warmest blanket in the room. Or perhaps they've decided your lap is officially their new favourite sleeping spot!
Every kitten is different, and some need longer than 48 hours to feel fully settled. There's no need to rush. Offer gentle affection, maintain a predictable routine and give your kitten plenty of opportunities to rest.
The bond you're beginning to build will only grow stronger over time!
A Lifetime of Love Starts Here
There's something truly magical about welcoming a Sphynx kitten into your family. They each have their own cheeky personalities and playful antics and they have an extraordinary love of human companionship. These wonderful cats have a way of capturing our hearts completely. Those first 48 hours are just the beginning of countless precious memories together.
At RiviaSphynx, we believe that bringing home a kitten isn't simply about welcoming a new pet. It's about welcoming a much-loved member of the family. With patience, warmth and plenty of love, your little Sphynx will soon begin to feel right at home.
Because life with a Sphynx isn't just about owning a cat, it's about gaining a tiny, wrinkly best friend who will fill your home with love, laughter and endless cuddles, for many years to come!
With love, Rivia Sphynx