What is the difference between a British Longhair and a Sphynx?

The British Longhair is 8–16 lbs sized while the Sphynx is 6–12 lbs sized. They differ in size (8–16 lbs vs 6–12 lbs), lifespan (12–14 years vs 8–14 years), and care requirements.

Which breed is better with kids, British Longhair or Sphynx?

British Longhair is generally good with kids. Sphynx is generally good with kids.

Which breed lives longer, British Longhair or Sphynx?

The British Longhair has a lifespan of 12–14 years while the Sphynx has a lifespan of 8–14 years.

British Longhair vs Sphynx — Breed Comparison

About the British Longhair

The British Longhair is the semi-longhaired variant of the British Shorthair, carrying the recessive longhair gene that has been present in the breed since Persian crosses were used after World War II. This medium-to-large breed weighs 8–18 pounds and has the same round, sturdy build as its shorthaired cousin. Their plush, dense coat comes in a wide array of colors and patterns — including the classic "British Blue" — and features a luxurious ruff around the neck and a full, plumed tail.

Temperament & Personality

British Longhairs are calm, dignified cats that enjoy quiet companionship without being overly demanding. They are tolerant and patient with children, coexist peacefully with other pets, and are content to observe household activities from a comfortable perch. Their relaxed, independent nature makes them ideal for owners who appreciate a cat that is affectionate but not clingy.

Pros

Calm, easygoing temperament — excellent for laid-back households
Tolerant of children and other animals without being easily stressed
Beautiful plush coat with a luxurious, teddy-bear appearance
Independent enough to handle time alone without developing anxiety

Cons

Dense coat requires brushing 2–3 times per week to prevent matting
Prone to obesity and polycystic kidney disease (PKD) from Persian ancestry
Heavy shedding — especially during seasonal coat changes
Can be aloof and may not enjoy being picked up or held

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About the Sphynx

The Sphynx originated in Toronto, Canada, in 1966 when a domestic cat gave birth to a hairless kitten due to a natural genetic mutation. Through careful breeding with Devon Rex and other cats, the Sphynx was established as a robust breed. Weighing 6–12 pounds, this medium-sized cat is famous for its apparent hairlessness — though most Sphynx have a fine layer of peach-fuzz that gives their skin a warm, suede-like texture. Their wrinkled skin, lemon-shaped eyes, enormous ears, and pot belly give them an unmistakable extraterrestrial appearance.

Temperament & Personality

Sphynx cats are extroverted clowns that crave human attention and warmth — literally, as they seek out body heat and will burrow under blankets or curl up on any available lap. They are fearless, social, and endlessly entertaining, performing acrobatic feats and greeting everyone — including strangers — with enthusiasm. They do wonderfully with children, dogs, and other cats.

Pros

No fur shedding on furniture or clothing
Extremely social, affectionate, and entertaining — the ultimate companion cat
Gets along with virtually everyone — kids, dogs, strangers, other cats
Unique, striking appearance that turns heads wherever they go

Cons

Requires weekly baths to remove oil buildup that would normally be absorbed by fur
Highly susceptible to sunburn, cold, and skin infections
Prone to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and hereditary myopathy
High metabolism means they eat more than similarly sized cats and need a warm environment

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British Longhair vs Sphynx